Step-by-Step Phacoemulsification aka Cataract Surgery
Here’s what happens once you’re on the operating table:
- Your surgeon administers a numbing injection or eye drops into your eye before the surgery.
- You will receive additional medication to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure.
- Using a blade the surgeon creates a small incision in your eye. By the time this cut is made, you will be under a form of anesthesia, so you will not feel the incision.
- The surgeon inserts a tiny ultrasound device into the incision and activates it to break up the lens with the cataract.
- Using a suction device, the surgeon removes the tiny lens fragments from your eye.
- The doctor inserts a new lens.
- Your surgeon decides whether stitches are needed to close the incision. (Most patients don’t need stitching.)
- You will wear a special shield over the eye when you leave the surgery center.
- After a 15 to 30 minutes of rest, you may go home.
Masks Required
Per the Washington State Health Department masks are still required to be worn by all patients and staff regardless of CDC recommendations.
Since we perform exams in close proximity we appreciate all patients wearing their masks appropriately for the entirety of their visit to protect our staff and families.
Thank you!