India recorded over 83 lakh cataract surgeries in FY2022-23. The right one for your eyes depends on cataract density, retina health, and your surgeon’s judgement.
Each technique differs in incision size, tools used, and recovery time.
This article will help you understand the types of cataract surgeries, plus the benefits and risks of each type of cataract surgery.
Types of Cataract Surgery in Delhi and Modern Cataract Surgery
3D MICS (Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery)
Procedure:
- Micro-incision performed in the cornea
- Cataract broken up and removed through the same opening.
- Foldable IOL inserted and no stitches needed.
Best Suited For:
- Early to moderate cataracts
- Patients wanting the least corneal trauma
Recovery Time:
- Same day, you can start normal activities
- Complete vision comes back normally in a week
Precaution and Post-Surgery Care:
- Avoid rubbing your eye for 2 weeks.
- Use prescribed antibiotic drops as prescribed.
- Avoid swimming pools and going out in bad pollution for the first week.
Also Read: Advancements in 3D Micro-Incision Vitreoretinal Surgery
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS)
Procedure:
- Laser creates precise corneal incisions and capsulotomy.
- Laser pre-softens the cataract.
- The cataract surgeon completes lens removal and IOL placement.
Best Suited For:
- For dense or hard cataracts.
- Patients with weak zonules.
Recovery Time:
- Same day, you can start normal activities
- You will notice sharper vision within the first 24 hours.
- Laser-corrected astigmatism during surgery is usually performed.
Precaution and Post-Surgery Care:
- Wear the protective eye shield at night for a week.
- Attend your follow-up visit
- Avoid direct sunlight without UV-protected sunglasses.
Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery (Phaco Eye Surgery)
Procedure:
- A small incision is made in the cornea.
- An ultrasound probe fragments and removes the lens.
- A foldable IOL is inserted through the same incision.
Best Suited For:
- Most age-related cataracts.
- People who want a quick recovery to their daily activities.
Recovery Time:
- Clear vision within 24 to 48 hours for most patients.
- Back to daily activities on the same day
Precaution and Post-Surgery Care:
- Avoid swimming and dusty environments for 2 weeks.
- Skip heavy lifting for a week.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors.
Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE)
Procedure:
- A larger incision is made in the cornea or sclera.
- Cloudy lens removed intact.
- Incision closed with sutures.
Best Suited For:
- Very dense or mature cataracts
- Eyes with weak corneal endothelium.
Recovery Time:
- Full recovery takes weeks.
- Sutures are usually reviewed and selectively removed.
Precaution and Post-Surgery Care:
- Attend your suture-removal follow-up as scheduled.
- Avoid rubbing or pressing on the eyes.
Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS)
Procedure:
- Small, usually self-sealing incision
- Cataract is manually expressed through the incision.
Best Suited For:
- Patient with Dense cataracts
- High-volume surgical setups need a shorter procedure time than ECCE.
Recovery Time:
- Most patients recover within 1 to 2 weeks.
- No stitches are needed at all.
- Vision often stabilises faster.
Precaution and Post-Surgery Care:
- Avoid rubbing or pressing on your eye.
- Use prescribed drops for the full course.
- Avoid dusty or windy environments.
Intracapsular Cataract Extraction (ICCE)
ICCE removes the entire lens and its capsule in one piece. It’s an older technique, reserved today for complex trauma cases.
Procedure:
- A large incision was made around the cornea.
- The entire lens and capsule were removed together.
- Sutures placed to close the incision.
Best Suited For:
- Rare cases of lens dislocation or severe trauma
- The eye’s lens capsule is damaged and can’t be preserved.
- Cases with advanced zonular instability, where the entire lens must be removed as one unit.
Recovery Time:
- Recovery can take several weeks.
- Here, follow-up visits are typically more frequent.
Precaution and Post-Surgery Care:
- Avoid any strain or sudden eye movement.
- Follow up closely with your surgeon.
- Avoid heavy lifting and bending forward.
Your lens choice also shapes your outcome.
AKIO offers monofocal, toric, multifocal, and EDOF IOLs, each suited to different lifestyles. Finding the best lens for cataract surgery depends on your vision goals, not just the surgical technique.
What Are the Risks and Complications of Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a very common surgery performed by cataract surgeons with a 1% complication rate.
- Rare Retinal detachment, but serious; more likely with denser cataracts or high myopia
- Temporary rise in eye pressure
- Mild inflammation in the first few days
- Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is treated with a quick YAG laser procedure.
What are the precautions after cataract surgery?
Postoperative advice varies, but patients are commonly asked to:
- Use prescribed eye drops correctly
- Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye
- Keep soap and contaminated water away from the eye initially
- Wear the protective shield as advised
- Avoid swimming until permitted
- Avoid dusty or dirty environments during early recovery
- Avoid strenuous activity until cleared
- Attend every scheduled follow-up
Why Is AKIO the Best Cataract Hospital in Delhi?
- Best Cataract Surgeon in Delhi
Surgeries performed by Dr Aman Kumar, an AIIMS alumnus and PGIMER gold medallist, using an advanced 3D micro-incision modern technique
- Over 40 Years of Surgical Experience
High-resolution OCT scans evaluate your retina before your cataract is touched, guided by Padma Shri awardee Dr Atul Kumar, a retina specialist in Delhi with four decades of experience.
- Providing Premium Cataract Lenses
Full range of IOLs, matched to your lifestyle and vision needs.
- Known for a Patient-Centric Approach
Patients searching for a cataract surgeon near me or cataract surgery near me often choose AKIO for exactly this reason.
Summary
At AKIO, we assess your cataract and recommend the right technique and lens. Book a consultation with one of the best ophthalmologists in Delhi to find out which option fits your eyes.
FAQs
What are the lens options available at AKIO post-cataract surgery?
Monofocal, toric, multifocal, and EDOF IOLs are chosen based on your lifestyle.
Is cataract surgery painless?
Cataract surgery is usually performed using numbing drops or local anaesthesia.
What is the cost of cataract surgery in Delhi at AKIO?
Cost varies by technique and lens type. Book a consultation at AKIO for an exact estimate.
How to choose the right cataract surgery?
Your surgeon decides based on cataract density, eye health, and your vision goals.
Can cataracts return after surgery?
The removed cataract cannot return.
Can a patient with diabetic retinopathy undergo cataract surgery?
Yes, but retinal disease should be assessed and treated as required.
Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?
Possibly. Dependence on glasses depends on the lens selected, astigmatism, healing and the final refractive result.
