Cataract surgery with phacoemulsification is the most modern and safest method of treating cataract, a condition that causes progressive clouding of the lens of the eye and gradual loss of clear vision. With the help of advanced ultrasound technology, the natural lens that has lost its clarity is fragmented and removed, and a new, clear artificial lens (intraocular lens) is placed in its place. Lens refractive surgery is now considered the gold standard for restoring vision in cataract patients. It is painless, performed under local anaesthesia, requires no hospitalisation and has impressive results. Let's take a detailed look at the procedure, the stages and what the patient needs to know before and after the procedure.
What is the cataract
A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye, which is normally clear and allows light to pass clearly to the retina. Over time or due to other factors (heredity, trauma, medications, diseases such as diabetes), the lens begins to lose its clarity.
Patients with cataracts usually notice:
- Blurred or dull vision
- Difficulty reading or driving at night
- Sensitivity to light
- Reduced colour perception
The only definitive treatment for cataracts is the surgical removal of the cloudy lens and its replacement with an artificial one.
What is phacoemulsification
Phacoemulsification is the most common method of surgical cataract removal. It uses ultrasound to break the lens into tiny pieces, which are then suctioned through a tiny incision.
The incision, usually 2-3 mm long, is so small that it does not need stitches and heals naturally in a short time. The procedure takes about 10-20 minutes and the patient returns home the same day.
Preoperative check and preparation
Before the surgery, the ophthalmologist will perform a detailed check of the eyesight and health of the eyes. The measurements include:
- Visual acuity check
- Estimation of the degree of cataract
- Corneal topography
- Calculating the power of the artificial lens
The patient is informed in detail about the type of intraocular lens to be inserted. There are monofocal, multifocal and toric lenses, depending on the needs of each individual.
On the day of surgery, it is recommended that the patient has not eaten heavily, has had adequate rest and is accompanied, as he/she should not drive immediately afterwards.
The operation procedure
The operation is performed under local anaesthesia (with anaesthetic drops). The patient remains awake but feels no pain.
The basic steps of phacoemulsification are:
- Microscopic incision in the front part of the eye.
- Creating an opening in the dome of the lens (capsulorhexis).
- Ultrasonic lens disruption in small pieces.
- Absorption of residues with a special microtool.
- Placement of an artificial intraocular lens inside the eye capsule.
What to expect after surgery
After the operation, the patient remains in the recovery room for a short time and then returns home. There is usually no pain, only mild discomfort or a feeling of dryness.
The doctor prescribes antibiotic and anti-inflammatory ointments for a few weeks to prevent inflammation and speed up healing.
In the first few days after surgery it is recommended to:
- Avoid rubbing the eye
- Do not come into contact with water or soap
- Avoid heavy physical activities
- Wear sunglasses outdoors
Vision begins to improve from the very first day, while full stabilization is usually achieved within 2-4 weeks.
Selection of the artificial lens
The choice of the appropriate intraocular lens is critical to the final result.
Modern lenses offer personalised solutions:
Monofocal lenses: They correct vision at a distance (usually far away). The patient needs glasses for near.
Multifocal lenses: They allow good vision at many distances (far, medium, near) and reduce the need for glasses.
Toric lenses: They also correct astigmatism, offering clear vision without distortion.
The final choice is based on the patient's profession, daily needs and expectations.
Advantages of phacoemulsification
Phacoemulsification has significant advantages over older techniques:
- Minimally invasive procedure
- No stitches requiredDangerous experience
- Rapid recovery
- Excellent results in vision
- Permanent recovery without relapse
In many cases, patients get better vision than they had before the cataract developed, with success rates exceeding 98%.
Possible complications
Although phacoemulsification is extremely safe, as with any medical procedure, there are rare complications, such as:
- Temporary inflammation or irritation
- Increase in intraocular pressure
- Blurring of the posterior envelope (secondary cataract)
- Infection (extremely rare)
Secondary cataracts can be easily treated with a painless laser procedure (YAG laser), without surgery.
Back to everyday life
Recovery after phacoemulsification is quick and simple. Most patients can return to light daily activities within 1-2 days, with a full return to more demanding tasks allowed within a week.
The use of glasses may not be necessary, depending on the type of lens fitted. Regular post-operative examinations are necessary to monitor progress and ensure optimal results.
How long the results last
The results of cataract surgery with phacoemulsification are permanent. The artificial intraocular lens does not wear out or need to be replaced. The patient enjoys stable and clear vision for life.
The only change that can occur is the mild clouding of the lens housing, which is easily treated with laser, without pain or anesthesia.
Who are the right candidates
Cataract surgery with phacoemulsification is indicated for almost all patients who have blurred vision due to cataracts. It is also indicated in cases where impaired vision makes it difficult to work, drive or go about everyday life.
Age is not a contraindication, as the technique is safe for elderly patients as long as their general health allows it.
Care and long-term results
Proper care after surgery is crucial for its success. Following the ophthalmologist's instructions, consistency in the use of the eye drops and avoiding irritants ensure a quick recovery and excellent results.
After a few months, the patient enjoys full and clear vision, without restrictions. Regular visits to the doctor ensure that eye health is maintained for many years.
The psychological dimension of surgery
Many patients feel anxious before surgery, which is perfectly normal. However, the phacoemulsification experience is much simpler and painless than one might imagine.
Most people are excited about the immediate improvement in vision and the feeling of “regeneration” they feel. Vision restoration significantly improves the patient's quality of life, confidence and independence.
Cost of the operation
The cost depends on the type of intraocular lens, the type of anaesthesia and the clinic where the procedure is performed. Monofocal lenses are less expensive, while multifocal and toric lenses are more expensive due to their advanced technology. In any case, the investment in vision is invaluable, as it is an intervention that offers a permanent solution and a long-term improvement in life.
Cataract surgery with phacoemulsification is a modern, safe and effective method that gives clear and bright vision again. With the help of ultrasound technology and the expertise of ophthalmologists, this procedure has become routine, with excellent success rates and rapid recovery. Patients can expect immediate improvement in vision, a painless procedure and long-lasting results that allow them to once again enjoy the activities of daily life without limitations. Phacoemulsification is, without a doubt, one of the greatest achievements of modern medicine - a technique that transforms lives, bringing light where there was previously cloudiness.
