Phacoemulsification – Procedure, Techniques, and Recovery

Phacoemulsification – Procedure, Techniques, and Recovery

• 19 Jul, 2024

Are you suffering from poor vision due to cataracts? It can affect the vision of many individuals, and make everyday tasks difficult. One of the most effective treatments for cataracts is phacoemulsification, which is also known as phaco eye surgery. It is a modern technique for cataract surgery with very good outcomes in patients with vision issues.

Phaco eye surgery uses ultrasonic waves to emulsify the cloudy lens, which is then replaced with a clear artificial lens, known as a phaco lens. This procedure is preferred for its precision and quick recovery in patients. 

Let’s find out the details of the phacoemulsification procedure. We will also explore the different techniques involved in it and the recovery process.

Understanding Phacoemulsification

Phacoemulsification is the process of making a small incision in the eye to insert an ultrasonic probe. This probe breaks up or emulsifies, the cloudy lens into tiny fragments. They suction out these fragments and implant a clear artificial lens. 

The process is highly effective, which reduces the risks associated with larger incisions. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and is performed under local anesthesia.

What is Phaco Lens?

After removing the cloudy lens from the eye, the surgeon then implants a new artificial lens, which is called an intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL stays permanently in place and doesn’t require any special care after surgery. It helps in restoring clear vision in the patient. 

Phacoemulsification Procedure

In the phacoemulsification procedure, your eye is first numbed with drops or a small injection to make sure you are comfortable. The eye surgeon then makes a very small cut on the front surface of your eye. Through this cut, they insert a tiny tool that uses sound waves to break up the cloudy lens, or cataract, into little pieces. 

After that, they gently suck out these pieces, and put a clear artificial lens, called a phaco lens, in place. This method uses a smaller cut than older surgeries, which helps you heal faster.

The whole phaco eye operation typically takes about 30 minutes, and you can go home on the same day since it’s an outpatient procedure.

Key Techniques in Phaco Surgery

• Incision Technique: The size and location of the incision are important for minimizing astigmatism and enhancing recovery.
• Capsulorhexis: It requires to create precise opening in the lens capsule to access and remove the cataract.
• Hydrodissection: The process involves using fluid waves to separate the cataract from the capsule, facilitating easier removal.

Phacoemulsification vs Laser Cataract Surgery

While phacoemulsification remains the standard, laser cataract surgery is another modern technique offering benefits like precise incisions and reduced energy usage. Comparing phacoemulsification vs laser cataract surgery:

• Phacoemulsification: More control in dense cataracts.
• Laser Surgery: Less energy means less risk of heat damage to surrounding eye structures.

Common Phacoemulsification Complications and How to Avoid Them

There can arise certain Phacoemulsification complications. However, a patient can manage these with proper care and follow-up appointments. A phaco surgeon needs to evaluate patient-specific risks to minimize complications.

While phaco eye surgery is generally safe, like any surgery, it comes with some risks. The following are possible phacoemulsification complications:

• Infection: Though rare, infections can occur if post-surgical care isn’t followed properly.
• Swelling: Some swelling in the cornea or retina is common but usually subsides with medication.
• Vision issues: Some patients may experience temporary blurriness or difficulty seeing in low light, but this generally improves with time.

You must follow your phaco surgeon’s advice closely to minimize risks.

Recovery Process After Phacoemulsification Surgery

Recovery from phaco cataract surgery generally involves a few weeks of care. Key recovery tips include:

• Avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks.
• Using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and control inflammation.
• Regular follow-up visits to monitor the healing process.

Conclusion

Phacoemulsification surgery recovery is relatively quick, allowing most patients to resume normal activities within a few weeks, with improved vision. At Drishti Eye Centre, our expert surgeons specialize in high-quality phacoemulsification cataract surgery and fake eye surgery, ensuring top-level care for all patients in Gurgaon. Our commitment to excellence in phaco eye operation and patient care makes us a leader in the field.