Is phaco surgery painful?

No; since drop anesthesia is used, there is no pain during the procedure.

It does not recur, since the cataractous lens is removed; however, posterior capsule opacification may develop over time and can be treated with a laser.

Will I be able to see without glasses?

This depends on the type of lens selected. Premium (multifocal/trifocal) lenses can correct both distance and near vision together and can reduce the need for glasses.

cataract

Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery

Phacoemulsification (phaco) is the standard method in modern cataract treatment. The clouded natural lens of the eye is broken up with ultrasound energy through a small incision and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens.

Prof. Dr. Efekan Coşkunseven

Ophthalmology · Istanbul

{ AI · preliminary guidance }

online

Let's talk about cataract and intraocular lens treatment

Your situation

What you're wondering

AI Assistant

AI responses do not replace a medical diagnosis.

Quick Answer

In phacoemulsification cataract surgery, the clouded lens is broken up and removed with ultrasound energy through a sutureless incision of 2–2.8 mm, and an intraocular lens is placed in its stead. It is performed with drop anesthesia, on a same-day basis, in approximately 10–15 minutes.

What Is Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery?

Phacoemulsification (phaco) is the standard method in modern cataract treatment. The clouded natural lens of the eye is broken up using ultrasound energy through a small incision and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens.

Key Features

Incision size: 2–2.8 mm (no sutures required)
Surgery duration: 10–15 minutes
Anesthesia: Performed with drop anesthesia
Discharge: Same day

Advantages

Minimal tissue damage and fast recovery
Lower risk of astigmatism
Compatible with multifocal/trifocal lenses
An established, widely applied method in clinical practice

Recovery Process

Vision begins to sharpen within the first week and becomes stable within 2–4 weeks. Regular use of the drops recommended by the doctor is required.

Life Without Glasses

This depends on the type of lens selected. Premium (multifocal) lenses can correct both distance and near vision together and reduce the need for glasses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is phaco surgery painful?

No; since drop anesthesia is used, there is no pain during the procedure.
Does cataract recur?

It does not recur, since the cataractous lens is removed; however, posterior capsule opacification may develop over time and can be treated with a laser.
Will I be able to see without glasses?

This depends on the type of lens selected. Premium (multifocal/trifocal) lenses can correct both distance and near vision together and can reduce the need for glasses.