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Phacoemulsification Surgery: What Is It? A Brief Overview of Phaco Surgery


What Is Phacoemulsification?


Actually, phacoemulsification, or "Phaco surgery," is a phase in the larger process of cataract surgery. Phacoemulsification is a surgery that restores vision in people with cataracts or clouding of the eye's lens. This type of cataract surgery uses ultrasound to break the lens into small pieces, which are then sucked out of the eye using a vacuum. We will explore how phacoemulsification is performed, what to expect, and how long recovery takes.

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Overview of Phacoemulsification surgery


The eye's lens is initially exposed during phacoemulsification from inside its surrounding capsule. A handheld ultrasound device's high-frequency sound waves then split the lens into an oily sticky substance. In the end, the mass is removed from the eye by vacuum and washed with clean water (irrigation and aspiration). Phacoemulsification is done with the aid of a sophisticated instrument called a phaco machine. To accurately administer the ultrasonic energy, it is made up of a foot pedal, irrigation and aspiration system, handpiece, and several tips twisted at various positions.


Procedure for Phaco Surgery Step-by-Step:


Anaesthetic: To numb the eye and lessen any pain or discomfort during the surgery, the patient is given a local anesthetic. Additionally, sleeping pills may be given to the patient in order to help with relaxation. A small incision is created in the cornea, which is the transparent front portion of the eye.


Capsulotomy: A circular incision is created in the thin membrane that encloses the lens, known as the lens capsule. Phacoemulsification: The lens is punctured, and a tiny rod is placed through it. The blurred lens is broken up into tiny fragments by the high-frequency ultrasonic waves emitted by the needle, and the pieces are subsequently vacuumed out of the eye.


IOL Implant: Following the removal of the clouded lens, an intraocular lens (IOL)—an artificial lens—is placed into the lens capsule that previously contained the natural lens.


Closure: Because of the method used, the incision is self-sealing. The entire process usually takes around eight minutes, and since it's done as an outpatient, the patient can return home the same day.


Recovery: What to Expect from Phacoemulsification Surgery


Following the procedure, you'll be transported to a recovery area and kept under observation until the anesthesia wears off, which should happen in about 30 minutes. Once you are cleared to go, you should be driven home by a friend or family member because you may probably experience temporary blurry vision.


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2. You can be sure that any cuts or ruptured blood vessels around your eyes are natural side effects that will go away in a few days.


3. After getting enough sleep, you can take a shower or bath, work on the internet, and watch TV in moderation.


4. Steer clear of hot tubs and swimming pools for at least a week. In order to avoid getting any grease, aerosolized oils, or splatters in your eyes, you should also avoid cooking during that period.


5. Avoid doing anything that can cause you to get dust, dirt, or grit in your eyes over the next few weeks (like mowing the lawn).


6. Wear eyewear that covers as much of the eye as possible, especially the sides, if you must go outside on a windy day.


7. Even if you have good vision and your eyes seem normal, make sure you finish the antibiotic eye drops that your surgeon ordered.


8. The majority of antibiotic eye drops have a seven-to ten-day prescription.


Advantages of Phacoemulsification



The fragmented lens material can be vacuumed out with a smaller incision, which reduces the healing period and lowers the possibility of problems.


• Naturally, the most significant benefit is vision restoration. Patients may choose for special lenses that can correct for distance alone (monofocal lenses), near and distance both (multifocal lenses), and even astigmatism (toric lenses).


• As a result of the IOL implanted in the eye, the vision is often better than it was before.


• little cuts that typically don't need to be sewn up.


• Improved vision leads to increased self-assurance, improved movement.


• The significant reduction of the fear of blindness has another psychological effect.


The majority of patient report feeling as though their worries were unfounded and that their eyesight has become brighter and clearer.


Most patients find it easy to return to their regular activities within two to three days of surgery, including watching TV, reading, and taking up their official duties, because the postoperative downtime is not severe.


What are the disadvantages?



The approach has a few drawbacks, most of which are associated with the machine and instrumentation costs. Its implementation is typically hampered most in underdeveloped nations. The following are the primary drawbacks of phacoemulsification:


• In certain developing nations around the world, expensive tools and gadgets could be a turnoff.


• Reusable, one-time use equipment raises the expense of surgery.


• Absence of surgical expertise, training, and practical experience in a number of medical schools.


• Greater frequency of surgical complications compared to traditional cataract surgery, such as corneal injury in incapable hands.


• Requires a willing patient who won't move their head during the procedure, which makes it less ideal for some individuals.


Phacoemulsification is often performed as an outpatient operation and is a rather rapid and painless process. Consult your physician if you have cataracts to see if phacoemulsification is a good option for you. Now that you know more about phacoemulsification, you should be able to do it. It is also important for you to understand the advantages and disadvantages of this operation. Make sure to discuss any questions you may have with your physician. Our team of skilled eye doctors at Dr. Sonalika Eye Clinic in Pune is available to answer any concerns you may have about cataract surgery, including phacoemulsification, Glaucoma Treatment, Corneal Disease Treatment etc. For questions, contact us by phone at 8141866237 or via email at sonalikadubey@gmail.com