Types of Cataract Surgeries

Cataract is a condition that affects the vision of millions of people worldwide. It is a condition that causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy, which leads to blurred vision. Cataract surgery is a common procedure that is performed to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one. There are different types of cataract surgeries, and this post will discuss some of them.

Phacoemulsification Surgery

Phacoemulsification surgery is a type of cataract surgery that is performed using ultrasound technology. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in the eye and inserts a tiny probe. The probe emits ultrasound waves that break up the cloudy lens into small pieces. The surgeon then removes the pieces using suction. After the cloudy lens is removed, the surgeon inserts an artificial lens to replace it.

Extracapsular Cataract Surgery

Extracapsular cataract surgery is a type of cataract surgery that is performed when the cataract is too dense to be removed using phacoemulsification. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a larger incision in the eye and removes the cloudy lens in one piece. The surgeon then inserts an artificial lens to replace the cloudy lens.

Intracapsular Cataract Surgery

Intracapsular cataract surgery is a type of cataract surgery that is rarely performed today. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a large incision in the eye and removes the cloudy lens along with the surrounding capsule. The surgeon then inserts an artificial lens and sutures the incision closed.

Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

Laser-assisted cataract surgery is a type of cataract surgery that uses a laser to make incisions in the eye and soften the cloudy lens. The surgeon then uses ultrasound technology to break up the lens and remove it from the eye. The surgeon then inserts an artificial lens to replace the cloudy lens.

Conclusion

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can improve the vision of people with cataracts. There are different types of cataract surgeries, and the type of surgery that is best for you will depend on the severity of your cataract and other factors. Your ophthalmologist will help you determine which type of cataract surgery is best for you.