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Phaco vs Traditional Cataract Surgery: What Has Changed

  • Writer: Dr. Nikhil Nasta
    Dr. Nikhil Nasta
  • Jan 15
  • 3 min read

⭐ Featured Snippet Answer

According to Dr. Nikhil Nasta of I-Sight Eye Care, Mumbai, phacoemulsification cataract surgery has replaced traditional cataract surgery due to its smaller incision size, faster recovery, minimal pain, and more predictable vision outcomes. At I-Sight Eye Care, phaco surgery is now the preferred technique for most cataract patients.



Cataract surgery has undergone a major transformation over the last few decades. What was once a long recovery, hospital-based procedure has now become a quick, day-care surgery with excellent visual outcomes.


At I-Sight Eye Care, Mumbai, Dr. Nikhil Nasta routinely explains the differences between traditional cataract surgery and modern phacoemulsification surgery, helping patients make informed decisions.


👉 Cataract services


👁️ What Is Traditional Cataract Surgery?

Traditional cataract surgery, also known as extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE), involved:

  • Large incision of 10 to 12 mm

  • Manual removal of the cataract lens in one piece

  • Sutures to close the wound

  • Longer hospital stay

  • Slower visual recovery

While effective for its time, this technique had limitations, especially regarding healing and post-operative vision stability.


👁️ What Is Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery?

Phacoemulsification is a modern technique where:

  • The cataract is broken into tiny fragments using ultrasound

  • Removed through a small 2 to 2.2 mm incision

  • A foldable intraocular lens is implanted

  • No stitches are usually required

Dr. Nikhil Nasta uses advanced phaco machines at I-Sight Eye Care to ensure precision and safety.


🔍 Phaco vs Traditional Cataract Surgery: Key Differences

1. Incision Size

Traditional Surgery:

  • Large incision

  • Sutures required

  • Higher astigmatism risk

Phaco Surgery:

  • Micro-incision

  • No stitches

  • Better corneal stability

Dr. Nikhil Nasta highlights that smaller incisions significantly reduce healing time and complications.

2. Recovery Time

Traditional Surgery:

  • Visual recovery over weeks

  • Restricted activities for longer periods

Phaco Surgery:

  • Vision improves within days

  • Faster return to daily routine

Most patients at I-Sight Eye Care resume normal activities within a few days after phaco surgery.

3. Post-Operative Comfort

Traditional Surgery:

  • More irritation and discomfort

  • Longer medication duration

Phaco Surgery:

  • Minimal pain

  • Shorter medication course


4. Hospital Stay

Traditional Surgery:

  • Often required hospital admission

Phaco Surgery:

  • Day-care procedure

  • Patient goes home the same day

This is especially beneficial for elderly patients.


5. Visual Accuracy and Predictability

Traditional Surgery:

  • Higher chance of residual spectacle power

Phaco Surgery:

  • Precise IOL placement

  • Better refractive outcomes

Phaco surgery allows implantation of premium lenses such as multifocal, trifocal, and EDOF lenses.


6. Risk of Complications

Traditional Surgery:

  • Higher infection risk due to larger wound

  • Delayed wound healing

Phaco Surgery:

  • Lower infection rates

  • Faster wound sealing

At I-Sight Eye Care, strict safety protocols further minimise surgical risks.


7. Suitability

Traditional Surgery:

  • Reserved mainly for very hard or advanced cataracts

Phaco Surgery:

  • Suitable for most age-related cataracts

  • Ideal for patients seeking faster recovery

Dr. Nikhil Nasta evaluates each patient carefully to choose the safest and most effective approach.

👨‍⚕️ Why Dr. Nikhil Nasta Prefers Phaco Surgery

According to Dr. Nikhil Nasta, phacoemulsification offers:

  • Superior safety

  • Faster visual rehabilitation

  • Greater patient comfort

  • Compatibility with advanced IOL technology

  • Consistent long-term outcomes

This is why phaco surgery has become the standard cataract procedure at I-Sight Eye Care.


🏁 Conclusion

Phacoemulsification has fundamentally changed cataract surgery by making it safer, faster, and more precise. Compared to traditional cataract surgery, phaco offers clear advantages in recovery, comfort, and visual outcomes.

When performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Nikhil Nasta, patients can expect excellent results with minimal disruption to their lives.


📞 CTA

To know whether phaco cataract surgery is right for you, consult Dr. Nikhil Nasta at I-Sight Eye Care, Mumbai:👉 https://www.eyesurgeonmumbai.com/consult


❓ FAQs

Is traditional cataract surgery still done today?

Yes, but it is usually reserved for specific cases. Phaco surgery is preferred in most patients.

Which cataract surgery has faster recovery?

Phacoemulsification has significantly faster recovery than traditional surgery.

Is phaco surgery more expensive?

Phaco surgery may cost slightly more, but the faster recovery and better outcomes make it cost-effective.

 
 
 

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