When you have a cataract, the cloudy lens inside your eye needs to be removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. The procedure I use, a treatment known as phacoemulsification, is the gold standard in modern cataract surgery and is incredibly effective.
What happens during a cataract removal procedure and how are they removed?
Cataract surgery is performed under local anaesthesia, so you’re awake but your eye is numbed. I make a very small incision (around 2.2mm) at the edge of your cornea, so small that it very rarely requires stitches.
Through this tiny opening, I use an ultrasound probe (phacoemulsification) to gently break up the cloudy lens into small fragments. These fragments are then carefully removed using suction. The back membrane of your lens (the capsule) is left in place- this is crucial because it holds the replacement lens in position.
Once the cataract is completely removed, I insert a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) through the same small incision. The lens unfolds inside your eye and settles into position against the capsule. This artificial lens becomes a permanent part of your eye and requires no maintenance.
Why this technique is so effective for removing cataracts
Phacoemulsification has transformed cataract surgery. The small incision means less trauma to your eye, faster healing, and minimal discomfort. The procedure typically takes 10-15 minutes per eye.
You’ll be awake throughout, which allows me to communicate with you and ensure you’re comfortable. Most patients report seeing bright lights and shadows moving, but no pain – just occasional mild pressure and the sensation of fluid around the eye.
What to expect during recovery from cataract removal
Your vision will improve rapidly. Most patients notice a significant improvement within the first 24 hours. Your eye may feel gritty or light sensitive for the first few days, this is normal and manageable with prescribed eye drops (anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops to protect your eye and prevent infection.)
Visual stability takes a few weeks as your eye settles. During this time, you’ll have post-operative appointments where I check your healing and assess your vision.
Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days. If your work involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, I advise waiting a week or two. You should avoid getting water directly in your eye for the first week.
Cataract removal safety and outcomes
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful procedures in medicine. My own complication rates are significantly below the national average.
One thing worth knowing: approximately 1 in 10 patients will develop a slight clouding of the lens capsule (which holds the artificial lens in place) months or years after surgery. This is called posterior capsular opacification. It’s easily treated with a quick, painless laser procedure in clinic (YAG laser capsulotomy) and the results are immediate.
Cataract removal is a well-established, safe procedure with excellent outcomes. Modern phacoemulsification means small incision surgery with rapid recovery, and a return to clear vision. If you’re considering cataract surgery, you can be confident in both the technique and the result.
In summary
Cataracts are removed using phacoemulsification – a minimally invasive procedure where the cloudy lens is broken up, removed, and replaced with a clear artificial lens through a tiny incision. The procedure takes 15-20 minutes, recovery is fast, and outcomes are excellent. Over 99 in 100 patients achieve the vision they want.
