Cataract Surgery Techniques

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Cataract Surgery is considered one of the safest and most effective operations performed today. With goals of patient comfort, safety, and quick recovery; the operation is being constantly refined.

Modern cataract surgery is performed with topical anesthesia under mild sedation. Most patients find the experience surprisingly pleasant. Cataracts are removed by a technique call phacoemulsification.

Phacoemulsification

With this technique the cataract is fragmented by ultrasound into tiny particles that are simultaneously suctioned from the eye. Phacoemulsification is performed through an incision of only 3 millimeters. This technique usually allows for the elimination of sutures and patching. Patients are able to see the day of surgery and can resume most activities right away. The integrity of the small incision eliminates the need to avoid bending, lifting and straining after surgery.

After the cataract is removed the lens is replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL).

What is an IOL?

An intraocular lens replaces the human lens . This lens is made from a variety of synthetic foldable materials such as silicone and acrylics. The lens measures about 12 millimeters with an optical portion of 6 millimeters. Most lenses are monofocal. This means the lens has a fixed focus and does not allow for accommodation (the ability to change focus from far to near) There are lenses in development that will allow for changes in focus, reducing the dependence on bifocals or reading glasses after surgery. Current IOLs are considered very safe and are expected to last a lifetime.