Surgical correction of cataracts, characterised by the clouding of the eye’s natural crystalline lens, involves the removal of the cataract and replacement with an intraocular lens (IOL) implant. At Apollo Hospital in Jubilee Hills, Ultrasound A-Scan, optical biometry, keratometry, and tomography tests are utilised to accurately calculate IOL power. 

Laser Cataract Surgery – FLACS / Phacoemulsification 

At Apollo Hospitals in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, for cataract removal procedure we employ both femtosecond laser and phacoemulsification. The Z8 femtosecond laser allows for a bladeless cataract surgery, creating the incisions, circular opening in the lens capsule and fragmentation of the cataract.  

Phacoemulsification uses ultrasonic energy to break and emulsify the cataract before removal. This process is carried out through a minimally invasive incision size of only 2.2 to 2.75mm. We have several phaco machines from Alcon, Ortelli and Bausch & Lomb which incorporate advanced technology, ensuring minimal surgical trauma, which is safer for the eye and provides faster visual recovery. 

IOL selection is tailored to each patient to optimise visual outcomes. The surgical procedure is painless, allowing patients to return home promptly. 

Benefits of FLACS/ Phacoemulsification: 

• Minimally invasive (typically less than 2.8mm) in the eye, resulting in less trauma and faster healing compared to traditional methods.
• After surgery, patients can quickly resume their regular activities and restore their vision.
• Ultrasonic energy precisely removes cataracts with minimal disruption.
• Advanced machines minimise heat build-up, reducing risks during surgery.

Eligibility for Phacoemulsification:

• Individuals with cataracts causing visual impairment that cannot be adequately corrected with glasses or contacts are suitable candidates for phacoemulsification.
• Candidates should be in good general health and able to undergo surgery and anaesthesia safely.
• The eye should be free from active infections, inflammation, or other eye diseases that could potentially interfere with surgery or hinder healing.
• Candidates must have sufficient corneal thickness to support the surgical incisions required for phacoemulsification.

FAQs

When can I expect my vision to become better after cataract surgery?

After cataract surgery, or phacoemulsification, the time it takes for a patient to notice improvements in vision varies. But within a few days to weeks following the surgery, a lot of patients report noticeable improvements in their eyesight.

How long does the Phacoemulsification surgery take?

The actual phacoemulsification procedure usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes per eye.

When can I resume normal activities after surgery?

Most patients can resume light activities the day after surgery, but strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week to allow the eye to heal properly.

What are the potential risks or complications of phacoemulsification?

While phacoemulsification is generally considered safe, like any surgery, it carries some risks, including infection, inflammation, increased eye pressure, and rare complications such as retinal detachment or vision loss.