The Cataract Removal Procedure
More than three million cataract surgeries are performed in the United States each year. Cataract removal is considered one of the safest and most effective of all medical procedures. The cataract procedure is quick, simple, and allows for fast healing.
Cataract removal is performed with small incision micro-surgery through a process known as phacoemulsification. The cataract removal and surgical process is actually done using the smallest possible incision, and removal of the lens material is accomplished using an ultrasonic probe.
Before a new man-made lens can be implanted, the hardened cataract needs to be removed. A micro-incision about the size of 3 millimeters is created at the junction of the cornea and the white part of the eye known as the sclera. The lens capsule is then opened and the ultrasonic probe is inserted so that the cataract can be removed. The ultrasonic probe pulverizes the cataract and suctions out the cataract material.
After the cataract is removed, the surgeon is ready to implant a man made intraocular lens. This is a crucial point of understanding for patients. Patients can either have a monofocal lens which will only correct vision for one distance or they can opt to upgrade to premium lens implant that can reduce or eliminate their need for glasses after cataract removal surgery. There is an additional cost to upgrade Refractive IOLs, while traditional monofocal lenses are covered by Medicare.
The intraocular lens (IOL) is a foldable lens that slides through a tube, like a fruit roll-up and unfolds in the capsular bag. The Atlantis Eyecare cataract surgeon may center the new lens with the lens capsule if necessary. Once the lens is centered, the surgery is complete. In most cases no stitches are required to seal the incision due specifically to the 3 mm size. This is why it is called micro-surgery by many eye doctors
The cataract removal procedure is virtually painless and usually takes 10-25 minutes. Patients can usually return to their normal activities the following day. Contact one of our offices in Orange County to learn if cataract removal surgery is right for you.
