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The Great Debate: What are the Best Types of Cataract Surgery?

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Cataract basically refers to the clouding of the eye lenses. People who suffer from cataracts see as if they are looking through a fogged-up or frosty window. It causes difficulty in reading, driving, or seeing the expression on the other person's face.Cataracts develop slowly over time and do not disturb the eyesight immediately. But eventually, they do interfere with the vision. Therefore, it is important to seek the right consultation as soon as you start experiencing its symptoms. This article will help you get a brief idea about cataract surgery and its types.

What is Cataract Surgery?

Now that we know what cataract is, let's focus on cataract surgery. It refers to the process of removing the lens of the eye and, in most cases, replacing it with an artificial lens. This eye surgery is performed by ophthalmologists on an outpatient basis, which means that the patient does not need to stay in the hospital after the surgery is complete. In some cases, people may have other eye issues that may prohibit the use of artificial lenses. In such a situation, after removing the cataract, the vision may be corrected by prescribing the use of eyeglasses and contact lenses.

Types of Cataract Surgery

There are broadly two types of cataract surgeries. 
  • Phacoemulsification Surgery
In this type of cataract surgery, a tiny incision is made at the side of the cornea. The doctor inserts a tiny probe in the eye, which emits ultrasound waves to soften and break up the lens. It is then removed by suction. Most cataract surgeries today are done using phacoemulsification, which is also known as small incision cataract surgery.
  • Extracapsular Surgery
In extracapsular surgery, the doctor makes a relatively long incision at the side of the cornea to remove the cloudy core in one piece. The remaining lens is then removed using suction.

The Difference Between Laser and Traditional Cataract Surgery

There are generally two ways in which the surgery may be performed—the traditional method or the laser method. The type of surgery required will be determined by the doctor based on the patient's needs. Here are three major differences between traditional and laser cataract surgeries.
  • Laser surgeries do not involve a blade. The traditional method makes use of a vibrating need to break the cloudy lens. This surgery also involves making an incision in the cornea to remove the cataract and insert the new lens. On the other hand, laser surgery makes use of the laser.
  • Laser surgeries have higher precision and accuracy. The goal for both surgeries is to make incisions as circular as possible at the right spot. A laser is able to create an opening more precisely than a handheld blade. 
  • Laser surgeries take less time. Both these types of cataract surgeries are quite painless and have a quick recovery time. However, it is observed that laser surgery takes less energy as well as less surgical time.

Final Thoughts!

It is essential that you take care of your eyes. A cataract is a common eye condition many people suffer from as they grow old. As soon as you get any symptoms of cataract, make sure to consult the right doctor. Dr. Agarwal Eye Hospital is one big name that offers the most advanced surgeries and the best customer service.Visit their official website to explore more about them.