The Different Types of Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is a procedure that removes the cloudy lens from your eye and
replaces it with a clear, artificial one. This can help improve vision, reduce glare
from bright lights, and make colors look brighter. The surgery typically takes less
than an hour, and you may be able to go home the same day. Depending on what
type of lens is used, you may not need to wear glasses after the surgery. After a
few weeks of healing, your vision should be restored and improved.

What are the different types of cataract surgery?
There are different types of cataract surgery available, including:
 Phacoemulsification (or "small incision cataract surgery") – This is the
most common type of cataract surgery. It involves inserting a thin
instrument into the eye to break up and remove the cataract lens. A
foldable IOL can then be inserted in its place.
 Extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) – This type of surgery is less
common, but it may be recommended if your cataract is advanced or you
have a shallow eye socket. During ECCE, the surgeon makes one larger
incision in the side of the cornea before removing the lens in one piece.
 Laser-assisted cataract surgery – This recently developed procedure uses a
laser to make the incisions in the eye and soften the cataract lens.