Cataract surgery is a common, minimally invasive procedure aimed at restoring clear vision by removing the clouded lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery typically begins with the administration of local anesthesia to numb the eye, often in the form of eye drops or an injection, ensuring patient comfort throughout the procedure. The surgeon then makes a tiny incision at the edge of the cornea using a scalpel, or more commonly, a laser, to access the cataract. Through this incision, a small probe is inserted that utilizes ultrasonic energy to break up the opaque lens into smaller fragments, a process known as phacoemulsification. These fragments are then gently suctioned out of the eye using the same probe, carefully preserving the integrity of the surrounding eye structures.

After the removal of the cataract, the surgeon inserts the IOL through the same incision. The IOL is carefully unfolded and positioned in the place of the natural lens, where it helps to refocus light on the retina and restore clear vision. The small incision typically does not require stitches and seals naturally. The entire procedure usually takes between 15 to 30 minutes. Post-surgery, the patient is monitored for a brief period before being allowed to go home. Patients are generally prescribed medicated eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation, along with detailed instructions for post-operative care to ensure optimal healing and recovery. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the eye’s healing process and visual acuity. With advancements in technology and surgical techniques, cataract surgery boasts a high success rate, significantly enhancing the quality of life for those suffering from cataract-related vision impairment.