Small-Incision Cataract Surgery: Removing the Old Lens
You may be surprised by how little time small-incision cataract surgery takes.
Incision Size
A smaller incision (top) means a shorter recovery time for you. The location of the incision will vary.
The Procedure
Your doctor uses a microscope and tiny instruments to make the incision and remove the old lens. A special instrument breaks apart the old lens with sound waves (ultrasound) and then removes the pieces. This process is called phacoemulsification. The natural membrane (capsule) that held your lens is left in place.
