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Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery

Modern micro-incision technique using ultrasonic energy to fragment and aspirate the clouded lens, followed by foldable intraocular lens implantation through a 2.2-2.8 mm self-sealing corneal incision.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery?

Phacoemulsification is a microsurgical technique pioneered by Charles Kelman in 1967 that uses an ultrasonic handpiece (vibrating at 28-40 kHz) to fragment and aspirate the cataractous crystalline lens through a self-sealing 2.2-2.8 mm clear corneal incision.

Modern phaco platforms (Centurion, Stellaris, Whitestar Signature) integrate torsional or longitudinal ultrasound, fluidics control, and posterior capsule protection technology. Premium IOLs include monofocal, toric, multifocal, EDOF (extended depth of focus), and accommodating designs.

Surgery duration averages 10-20 minutes under topical anesthesia (eye drops). Visual recovery is typically rapid with most patients achieving 20/20-20/40 vision within 1-2 weeks. Complications are rare (<1%): posterior capsule rupture, endophthalmitis, cystoid macular edema.

Symptoms

Progressive cloudy or blurry vision in one or both eyes
Glare and halos around lights, especially at night
Poor contrast sensitivity and fading colors
Difficulty reading or driving in low light
Frequent prescription changes
Double vision in the affected eye
Reduced quality of life affecting daily activities

Risk Factors

Age over 60 (most common cause)
Diabetes mellitus and metabolic disorders
Long-term corticosteroid use (topical, systemic, inhaled)
Previous eye trauma or surgery
Uveitis or chronic intraocular inflammation
Family history of cataracts
UV light exposure and smoking
High myopia and prior vitrectomy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Visual acuity reduced below 20/40 affecting work or hobbies
  • Difficulty driving safely especially at night
  • Glare and halos significantly limiting outdoor activities
  • Inability to perform daily tasks (reading, watching TV)
  • Need for premium refractive cataract surgery (toric, multifocal IOL)
  • Asymmetric cataract progression with anisometropia
  • Pre-operative evaluation for refractive surgery candidacy

Treatment Methods

01
Comprehensive ophthalmic examination with biometry (IOL Master 700, LenStar) for IOL power calculation
02
Topical anesthesia with proparacaine or tetracaine drops
03
Clear corneal incision (2.2-2.8 mm) with diamond or steel keratome
04
Continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (CCC) creating circular anterior capsule opening (5-5.5 mm)
05
Hydrodissection to separate lens cortex from capsule, hydrodelineation if needed
06
Phacoemulsification with divide-and-conquer, stop-and-chop, or pre-chop techniques
07
Cortical aspiration with bimanual irrigation/aspiration
08
Foldable IOL injection into capsular bag through cartridge injector
09
Stromal hydration of incision for self-sealing closure (no sutures needed)
10
Post-operative topical antibiotic, NSAID, and steroid drops for 4 weeks

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.