Phaco Surgery in Mumbai
Dr. Nikhil Nasta
6 min read
Intro
Cataracts are one of the most common reasons for blurred, cloudy vision as we age. The good news is that modern eye surgery has made cataract removal a quick, precise and comfortable procedure. The most widely used technique today is phaco surgery, also called phacoemulsification.
It is a micro-incision form of cataract surgery in Mumbai that uses ultrasound energy to break the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens.
In this guide, you will understand what phaco surgery is, how the procedure is done step by step, the benefits compared to older techniques, who is a good candidate, recovery time and safety, and how it connects with premium lens options like EDOF, multifocal and trifocal IOLs.
What is Phaco Surgery?
Phaco surgery is a modern micro-incision technique for cataract removal. A very small opening is made in the clear front surface of the eye. Through this opening, a thin probe delivers ultrasound energy to soften and break the cataract into tiny fragments.
These fragments are then vacuumed out and replaced with a clear intraocular lens. Because the incision is so small, phaco is usually a no-stitch cataract surgery. It is performed as a day-care procedure and is now the standard approach for most patients undergoing cataract surgery in Mumbai.
How Phaco Surgery is Done: Step by Step
- 1. Eye preparation: You will be given numbing eye drops so that you are fully comfortable during the surgery. The area around the eye is cleaned and a small instrument keeps the eyelids gently open.
- 2. Micro incision: The surgeon creates a tiny self-sealing incision at the edge of the cornea. This micro-incision is usually about two to three millimeters.
- 3. Lens opening: A circular opening is made on the front surface of the cloudy natural lens. This allows access to the cataract inside.
- 4. Ultrasound phacoemulsification: A thin phaco probe is inserted through the micro-incision. This probe uses ultrasound vibrations to break the hard cataract into soft, tiny pieces. At the same time, gentle suction removes the fragments.
- 5. Intraocular lens implantation: Once the cataract is removed, a clear artificial lens (IOL) is inserted. The lens is folded, passed through the tiny incision and opened inside the eye.
- 6. Self-sealing closure: Because the incision is very small, it usually seals naturally without stitches. You go home the same day with protective instructions and eye drops.
Benefits of Phaco Surgery Compared to Older Cataract Techniques
Phaco surgery has become the gold standard for cataract removal for several reasons:
- Smaller incision: Faster healing, less induced astigmatism and more comfort.
- No stitches in most cases: The self-sealing design of the wound avoids sutures, which also reduces irritation and speeds recovery.
- Faster visual recovery: Most people notice clearer vision within one to two days after phaco.
- High precision and safety: Allows the surgeon to control energy and fluid inside the eye very precisely.
- Works well with premium IOLs: Ideal for implanting advanced lenses like EDOF, multifocal, trifocal and toric lenses.
Who is a Good Candidate for Phaco Surgery?
You may be a candidate for phaco if you have:
- Cloudy or blurred vision
- Difficulty reading, driving or working under bright lights
- Glare or halos around lights
- Frequent change in glasses prescription
- Reduced contrast or faded colours
Most age-related cataracts can be managed with phacoemulsification. Even if you have conditions like diabetes or mild dry eye, phaco can usually be performed safely with proper care.
Types of Intraocular Lenses Used with Phaco
- Monofocal IOL: Gives clear vision for one distance, usually far. You may still need glasses for reading or computer work.
- Toric IOL: Corrects astigmatism along with cataract.
- Multifocal IOL: Gives vision for far, intermediate and near with reduced dependence on glasses.
- EDOF IOL: Extended depth of focus lenses provide a smooth range of vision from far to intermediate, with fewer halos and glare.
- Trifocal IOL: Designed to give clear vision at far, intermediate and near distances for maximum spectacle independence.
Cost of Phaco Surgery in Mumbai
The total cost of phaco cataract surgery in Mumbai depends mainly on the type of lens chosen, the technology used and the hospital setup. In general:
- Monofocal IOL packages are at the lower end
- Toric IOL packages are slightly higher
- EDOF, multifocal and trifocal IOL packages fall into the premium range
Recovery After Phaco Surgery
Most patients are pleasantly surprised at how quick and comfortable recovery is.
- First 24 to 48 hours: Mild irritation, watering or foreign body sensation is common. Light sensitivity is expected.
- First week: Vision becomes sharper day by day. You can usually resume light daily activities.
- One month: The eye is usually fully healed. Final glasses number, if needed, is checked.
Possible Risks and Complications
Phaco surgery is very safe when performed by an experienced surgeon, but like any eye surgery, it has some potential risks:
- Temporary corneal swelling
- Raised eye pressure in the early period
- Inflammation that needs eye drops
- Posterior capsule opacification in the months or years after surgery (treated with simple laser)
- Very rarely, infection inside the eye
Phaco, LASIK and ICL: How They Relate
Patients often confuse cataract surgery with procedures like LASIK surgery in Mumbai or ICL surgery in Mumbai.
Phaco treats cataract by replacing the cloudy natural lens. LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct glasses power in younger eyes without cataract. ICL places a thin lens inside the eye, in front of the natural lens, for very high myopia or thin corneas.
Conclusion
Phacoemulsification has transformed cataract surgery into a safe, precise and quick procedure with excellent visual outcomes. With micro-incisions, minimal discomfort and a wide range of lens options, phaco offers clear, bright vision and the chance to reduce dependence on glasses.
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Dr. Nikhil Nasta
Dr. Nikhil Nasta is the Founder & Lead Surgeon at iSight Eye Care. With over two decades of experience, he specializes in advanced cataract surgery and comprehensive eye care, dedicated to restoring vision and improving patients' quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Phaco surgery, or phacoemulsification, is a modern micro-incision cataract procedure where ultrasound energy breaks the cloudy lens into tiny fragments that are removed and replaced with a clear intraocular lens.
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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Individual cases vary; consult a specialist for personalized advice.