Cataracts are a common eye condition, particularly in older adults. A cataract occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurred vision and eventually leading to vision loss if left untreated. Since medications and eye drops cannot cure cataracts, surgery remains the only effective solution. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a simple and highly successful procedure that restores clear vision by replacing the damaged lens. The process is painless and stitch-free, typically taking around 10-12 minutes. Patients remain awake during the procedure as local or topical anaesthesia numbs the eye, ensuring a pain-free experience. Post-surgery, patients start seeing immediately, with full recovery achieved in a few weeks.
Types of Cataract Surgery
There are two primary types of cataract surgeries:
- PHACO Cataract Surgery
- Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS)
Among these, PHACO or Phacoemulsification is a more advanced and minimally invasive technique that provides faster recovery and better visual outcomes.
What is PHACO Surgery?
Phacoemulsification, commonly known as PHACO surgery, uses ultrasound technology to break the cataract-affected lens into tiny fragments, which are then suctioned out of the eye. An artificial lens is inserted in its place, restoring vision. The procedure is performed with a state-of-the-art Phaco machine that includes a handpiece, foot pedal, and various tips to ensure precision.
Since PHACO involves making a smaller incision compared to traditional cataract surgery, it requires no stitches and heals naturally. Patients undergoing PHACO surgery experience minimal discomfort and a quick recovery, returning to their regular activities within a couple of weeks.
Advantages of PHACO Surgery
PHACO surgery offers numerous benefits over traditional methods:
- Smaller Incision: Reduces risk of infection and speeds up healing.
- Faster Recovery: Patients resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks.
- Higher Precision: Ultrasound technology ensures accurate removal of cataracts.
- Better Visual Outcomes: Patients often experience clearer vision shortly after surgery.
- Shorter Procedure: Surgery usually takes less than 10 minutes, though the entire hospital process may last around 3-4 hours.
- Same-Day Discharge: Patients can return home within a few hours after the procedure.
PHACO vs. SICS Surgery: Key Differences
Both PHACO and SICS procedures yield good visual results, but they differ in some aspects:
- Cataract Type: SICS may be preferred for extremely dense or matured cataracts.
- Lens Choice: Advanced IOLs, such as multifocal lenses, are better suited for PHACO.
- Hospital Stay: PHACO patients are discharged the same day, while SICS patients may need an overnight stay.
- Recovery Speed: PHACO offers faster recovery and return to normal life.
- Cost: SICS generally costs less than PHACO, but when high-end lenses are used, the price difference narrows.
Steps Involved in PHACO Surgery
A PHACO cataract operation follows these key steps:
- Anaesthesia: Eye is numbed using topical anaesthesia (eye drops).
- Incision: A small incision is made to access the cataract.
- Lens Removal: An ultrasound probe breaks down the cataract, and the fragments are suctioned out.
- Lens Replacement: A foldable intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in the lens capsule.
- Eye Patch Application: The eye is covered with a patch, which is removed within a few hours before discharge.
- Discharge: Patients are discharged within a few hours, with protective eyeglasses provided for recovery.
Preparing for PHACO Surgery
To ensure a successful PHACO operation, patients should follow these preparation steps:
- Consultation: Discuss the case with an eye surgeon and disclose any health conditions or medications.
- Adjust Medications: Certain medications may need adjustment before the surgery.
- Cost Discussion: Understand the costs involved and choose the appropriate lens.
- Schedule Surgery: Plan the surgery date considering recovery time.
- Arrange Assistance: Arrange for someone to accompany you on the day of surgery.
- Follow Pre-Op Instructions: Use prescribed eye drops and follow any dietary guidelines provided by the surgeon.
Duration and Pain of PHACO Surgery
PHACO surgery is a quick and painless procedure. The surgery itself takes less than 10 minutes, although the entire process at the hospital, including pre- and post-operative care, can take 3-4 hours. Since topical anaesthesia is used, the patient does not experience any pain during the operation.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Care
After PHACO surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, redness, or watery eyes for a few days, which is normal. Full recovery typically takes around 4-6 weeks, with gradual improvement in vision.
Post-Operative Care Guidelines:
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed.
- Avoid touching or rubbing the operated eye.
- Protect the eye from dust, soap, and water.
- Refrain from strenuous activities and bending over for at least 2 weeks.
- Avoid driving until cleared by the surgeon.
- Wear sunglasses while stepping out for protection.
Follow-Up Appointments: Importance & Benefits
Regular follow-up appointments after PHACO surgery are crucial for ensuring a smooth recovery. These appointments help:
- Detect potential complications early.
- Address patient concerns and answer queries.
- Monitor progress and prescribe eyeglasses if required.
Cataract Surgery for Both Eyes: Simultaneous or Separate?
For safety reasons, cataract surgery is generally performed on one eye at a time, with a few weeks’ gap between procedures. This minimizes the risk of infection and ensures that the patient retains vision in one eye while the other heals.
Recovery Timeline After PHACO Surgery
- First Few Days: Mild blurriness and sensitivity to light are normal.
- First Week: Gradual improvement in vision.
- 4-5 Weeks: Most patients resume normal duties and see a significant improvement in their vision.
PHACO Surgery Cost and Lens Price
The cost of PHACO cataract surgery varies depending on the type of lens used. The surgery package usually includes operation theatre charges, bed charges, surgeon’s fees, and the cost of the lens.
Lens Price Range:
- Indian Monofocal Lens: Starting from ₹12,000.
- Foreign Monofocal Lens: Around ₹19,000.
- Multifocal Lens: Starting from ₹28,000.
- Toric Lens: Priced at approximately ₹26,000.
Note: The prices mentioned may vary based on location, hospital, and the expertise of the eye surgeon.
PHACO cataract surgery is a modern, safe, and highly effective procedure that offers better visual outcomes, faster recovery, and minimal discomfort. Whether you opt for a monofocal, multifocal, or toric lens, understanding the procedure and its advantages can help you make an informed decision. If you or a loved one is considering cataract surgery, discussing the options with an experienced eye surgeon can help ensure the best results.
