Phaco Surgery: The Modern Standard for Cataract Removal

Phacoemulsification (“phaco”) is the ultrasound-based technique behind nearly all modern cataract surgeries — fast, safe, and typically stitch-free.

What Is Phacoemulsification?

Phacoemulsification, commonly called “phaco,” is the technique used in the vast majority of modern cataract surgeries. A tiny ultrasonic probe is inserted through a micro-incision to break up (emulsify) the cloudy natural lens into small fragments, which are then gently suctioned out — all through an opening often smaller than 3mm.

How Phaco Surgery Works

1. A small incision is made at the edge of the cornea.
2. The ultrasonic phaco probe breaks the cataract-clouded lens into tiny fragments.
3. The fragments are suctioned out through the same micro-incision.
4. A folded artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted and unfolds into place, replacing the natural lens permanently.

The micro-incision is usually small enough to self-seal without stitches.

✎ Change image 🗑 Remove

Cross-section of the human eye (Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Why Phaco Replaced Older Techniques

• Smaller incision – compared to older extracapsular techniques that required larger cuts and stitches.
• Faster recovery – most patients notice improved vision within a day or two.
• Local anesthesia – typically performed with just numbing eye drops, avoiding general anesthesia.
• Outpatient procedure – usually takes 15–30 minutes, with patients going home the same day.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

You'll receive dilating and numbing drops before the procedure. During surgery, you'll be awake but comfortable, seeing only light and movement rather than surgical detail. Afterward, a protective shield may be worn briefly, and prescribed eye drops help prevent infection and control inflammation during healing.

Recovery Timeline

Most people resume normal activities within a few days, with full healing over 4–6 weeks. Follow-up visits confirm proper healing and let your surgeon fine-tune any remaining glasses prescription once your eye has stabilized.