Cataract Surgery

Surgery is the only treatment for cataracts and is recommended based on the severity of the disease and the impact it has on the daily activities of the patient. It is performed one eye at a time with a few weeks gap in between the two operations. The different types of cataract surgery are performed on an outpatient basis, under local anaesthesia.

Advanced Phacoemulsification

Phacoemulsification uses ultrasound vibrations to break up the eye’s damaged lens. Your surgeon will make a small incision of about 2-3 mm on the side of the cornea and insert a device to break up and suction out the lens. The lens will be replaced by a manmade lens. The incision heals on its own and does not require any eye patch or stitches. This surgery takes less than 30 minutes. A laser can be used for part of the surgery and may add precision and safety in certain patients.

Secondary Lens Implantation

A complex cataract surgery or injury can sometimes make it difficult for the surgeon to immediately replace the damaged lens with a plastic lens in your eye. You may have to wear prescription lenses until your eye heals. Following this, your doctor will suggest a second surgery for lens implantation. This is called secondary lens implantation. Your surgeon will make a small incision in the white part of your eye (sclera) and insert a lens implant. The implant is stitched to the sclera and the incisions are closed with small stitches.