Phacoemulsification is a modern and advanced technique used in cataract surgery. It involves the use of ultrasound energy to break up and emulsify the clouded natural lens (cataract) in the eye, which is then gently suctioned out. The surgery is performed through a small incision, typically around 2 to 3 millimeters in length, in the cornea.
Procedure:

• Anesthesia: Before the surgery begins, local anesthesia is administered to numb the eye, ensuring that the patient feels no pain during the procedure. In some cases, patients may also receive sedation to help them relax.
• Small Incision: The surgeon creates a tiny incision in the cornea, allowing access to the cataract-affected lens.
• Phacoemulsification: A small ultrasonic probe is inserted through the incision. The probe emits ultrasonic waves that break up the cataract into tiny fragments. Simultaneously, the probe also irrigates and aspirates the emulsified lens material out of the eye.
• Intraocular Lens (IOL) Implantation: After the cataract is removed, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted through the same small incision. The IOL stays in the eye permanently to replace the natural lens and restore clear vision.
• Self-Sealing Incision: In most cases, the small incision is self-sealing, eliminating the need for stitches.

Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (Femtosecond Laser):

While phacoemulsification is not laser-based, there is another advanced technique known as "femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery." In this approach, a femtosecond laser is used to perform certain steps of the cataract surgery, such as creating precise incisions in the cornea and breaking up the cataract. The remaining steps, including lens removal and IOL implantation, are similar to traditional phacoemulsification cataract surgery.
It's important to note that the availability of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery may vary depending on the location and the eye care center. Additionally, the cost of this procedure is generally higher compared to standard phacoemulsification cataract surgery.