Cataract Surgery

Types of Cataract Surgery in India - Procedures and Lens Options Explained

This short explains the main types of cataract surgery. It also covers the different kinds of artificial lenses that can be implanted to replace your natural lens.

Common surgical techniques

The goal of cataract surgery is to remove the cloudy natural lens and replace it with a clear artificial one. The technique used often depends on how advanced the cataract is.

• Phacoemulsification. This is the most common method. The surgeon uses high-frequency ultrasound to break the cloudy lens into small pieces, which are then gently removed from the eye.
• Small-incision surgery. Modern techniques use very small incisions, often less than 3mm. These incisions are usually self-sealing and may not require stitches, which can lead to faster healing.
• Laser-assisted surgery. A femtosecond laser can be used to perform certain steps of the procedure with high precision. This includes making the incisions and softening the cataract before its removal.
• Extracapsular surgery. This technique uses a larger incision to remove the cataract in one piece. It is less common now but may be necessary for very dense, advanced cataracts.

Types of intraocular lenses (IOLs)

The artificial lens implanted during surgery is called an intraocular lens. The type of IOL you receive affects your vision after the operation.

• Monofocal lenses. These are the standard type of IOL. They are set to provide clear vision at a single distance, usually far away. You will likely need glasses for reading or close work.
• Multifocal lenses. These lenses have different zones to provide clear vision at multiple distances. They can reduce your dependence on glasses for both near and far vision.
• Toric lenses. These are designed for people with astigmatism. A toric IOL corrects the astigmatism at the same time as removing the cataract, improving overall vision quality.
• Extended depth of focus (EDOF). These lenses provide a continuous range of vision from far to intermediate distances. They may offer a better range than standard monofocal lenses.

The most suitable type of surgery and intraocular lens depends on your specific eye health, the maturity of the cataract, and your lifestyle needs. An ophthalmologist can recommend the best approach after a full evaluation of your case and a review of your recent reports.