The phacoemulsification method allows patients to regain vision and resume normal activities very quickly following surgery and is very safe.

This method involves creating a tiny incision on the cornea and removing the natural but clouded lens of the eye and placing an artificial lens where the natural lens was found. Contrary to popular belief this involves the use of ultrasound energy and not a laser.

Recently Adelaide Eye & Laser Centre commenced using the Infiniti™ cataract removal system. This system not only uses enhanced ultrasound phacoemulsification but also offers revolutionary new waterjet technology. Using a fine jet of pure water to remove the cataract this reduces heat stress on the eye, enabling faster recovery and enhanced safety. Whilst not indicated for all cataracts, waterjet technology enables the surgeon greater flexibility in planning for cataract surgery.

Intraocular lens

The procedure is performed in AE&LC’s day surgery facility by surgeons who have specific training in cataract surgery. Your visit may take up to 2 hours.

Small incision cataract surgery:

• Does not involve the use of injections or stitches around the eye (except in rare circumstances).
• Is performed under topical anaesthesia with a light intravenous sedative.
• Takes 10-15 minutes per eye although the total length of your stay at the centre will be approximately 2 hours.
• Generally patches are not required to cover the eye after surgery unless the surgeon advises otherwise.
• Only one eye is operated on at a time. The second eye may undergo treatment the following week if necessary; usually the most affected eye is treated first. However, the surgeon will advise on this.
• The rate of recovery varies for each person but, as a general rule, vision improves over a 24 to 72 hour period.
• Vision is generally greatly improved after cataract surgery. However, thin spectacles may be needed to correct any astigmatism or residual vision error, including reading glasses.