Phacoemulsification, Modern Cataract Surgery with Faster Recovery

Cataract surgery is a medical procedure performed to treat cataracts, a condition where the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, causing blurred vision, glare, and light sensitivity. With the more modern phacoemulsification method, cataract surgery can now be performed without large incisions, allowing patients to recover more quickly.

Phacoemulsification cataract surgery is a minimally invasive procedure. It is performed through a small incision (2–3 mm) to break up the clouded natural lens using ultrasonic waves, after which the fragments are suctioned out. The surgeon then implants an artificial lens to replace the damaged natural lens.

Compared to conventional techniques, the phacoemulsification method offers the advantages of minimal incisions, faster recovery, and better visual outcomes.

Do I Need Cataract Surgery?

Not all cataracts require immediate surgery, especially if symptoms are still mild. However, your doctor may recommend cataract surgery if the condition has worsened and interferes with daily activities, such as:

• Vision becoming increasingly blurred, as if covered by smoke or fog
• Difficulty seeing clearly at night
• Trouble distinguishing colors
• Sensitivity to bright light
• No improvement despite changing glasses prescription

The only effective treatment to remove cataracts is cataract surgery. While all surgeries carry some risk, cataract surgery is considered a safe procedure.

Why Choose Phacoemulsification?

Phacoemulsification cataract surgery offers several benefits for patients with cataracts, including:

• Minimal incision – The small incision size minimizes trauma to eye tissues, reducing the risk of infection and postoperative complications. No stitches are usually required.
• Quick recovery – As a minimally invasive procedure, it can be performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients experience vision improvement as early as the second day after surgery.
• Better visual outcomes – The artificial intraocular lens (IOL) used in phacoemulsification comes in various types to correct nearsightedness, both near and far vision, and astigmatism—often providing even better vision than before surgery.

If cataract symptoms begin to disrupt your daily activities or those of your loved ones, consult an ophthalmologist at Tzu Chi Hospital. Our doctors will perform a thorough examination to determine whether phacoemulsification cataract surgery is the right treatment for you. Book your consultation today through the Tzu Chi Hospital call center.

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Matilda Susanto, Sp.M.