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Cataract Surgery (Phaco Method)


Cataract is an eye disease that occurs as a result of clouding of the natural lens of our eyes. This condition significantly affects the quality of vision and can progress over time, making it difficult to perform activities of daily living. There are many causes of cataract formation, but the most common cause is aging.

The lens of our eye is normally transparent and allows light to reach the retina. However, as age progresses, the proteins in the structure of the lens begin to deteriorate and the lens becomes cloudy. This clouding is the main cause of cataracts. In addition, long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays, chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, long-term use of certain medications and eye trauma can also cause cataract formation.

In the early stages of cataracts, the quality of vision can be improved with simple measures such as the use of glasses or increasing the lighting. However, as the disease progresses, these methods become inadequate and surgical intervention becomes necessary. At this point, the Phaco method, one of the most effective solutions offered by modern medicine, comes into play.

What is Cataract Surgery with Phaco Method?

The phaco method is one of the most modern and effective techniques used in cataract surgery. Fako, an abbreviation of the word "phacoemulsification", refers to the process of breaking down and absorbing the cataract lens using ultrasonic waves. This method offers many advantages over traditional cataract surgeries and is the most preferred cataract surgery method today.

The phaco method is considered a minimally invasive surgical technique. That is, it is performed with a very small incision instead of large incisions. Thanks to this small incision, the postoperative recovery process is accelerated and the risk of complications is reduced. Furthermore, the ultrasonic waves used in this method break down and absorb the cataract lens very precisely, thus causing minimal damage to the intraocular tissues.

Cataract surgery with the phaco method is usually performed under local anesthesia. This allows the patient to be awake during surgery and the risks of general anesthesia are avoided. The duration of the operation is quite short, usually it takes 15-20 minutes. This short duration and minimally invasive approach allows patients to return to their normal lives quickly after surgery.

Advantages of the Phaco Method

The phaco method is a revolutionary development in cataract surgery and offers many advantages. Here are some of these benefits:

  1. Minimally Invasive Surgery: The phaco method is performed with a very small incision (usually 2-3 mm). This speeds up the postoperative recovery process and reduces the risk of infection.
  2. Rapid Recovery: Thanks to the small incision and precise technique, patients can usually go home a few hours after surgery and return to their daily activities in a short time.
  3. Low Risk of Complications: The controlled use of ultrasonic waves and the small incision significantly reduce the risk of complications during and after surgery.
  4. Better Vision Results: The phaco method allows the cataract lens to be completely removed and replaced with a precise artificial lens. This helps to achieve better visual quality after surgery.
  5. No Stitches Required: In most cases, thanks to the small size of the incision, there is no need for stitches. This increases patient comfort and speeds up the healing process.

These advantages have made the Phaco method a preferred option for both patients and eye surgeons. However, each patient's situation is different and the most appropriate treatment method should be decided together with the ophthalmologist.

Preparation Process Before Cataract Surgery

The preparation process before cataract surgery is critical for the success of the surgery and patient safety. This process typically involves the following steps:

  1. Comprehensive Eye Examination: The first step is a detailed eye examination. In this examination, the severity of the cataract is evaluated, eye measurements are taken and other possible eye problems are detected. In addition, it is decided which artificial lens to use.
  2. General Health Assessment: Before the operation, the general health status of the patient is also evaluated. Information is obtained about chronic diseases, medications and allergies. If necessary, some blood tests or other medical examinations may be ordered.
  3. Regulation of Drug Use: Some drugs may need to be discontinued or adjusted before surgery. This is especially important for patients who use blood thinners.
  4. Use of Eye Drops: A few days before the surgery, antibiotic eye drops can be used to reduce the risk of infection.
  5. Preparation for the Day of Surgery: Special instructions are given for the day of surgery. It is usually desirable to fast the night before and in the morning of the surgery. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and leave valuables at home.

This preparation process not only ensures that the surgery is performed safely, but also helps to reduce patient anxiety. It is important for the patient to ask all his questions to his doctor and carefully follow the instructions given.

How is Cataract Surgery Performed with the Phaco Method?

Cataract surgery with the phaco method is one of the most effective and safe procedures of modern eye surgery. Here is the step-by-step process of the surgery:

  1. Anesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia. The eye and the surrounding area are anesthetized so that the patient does not feel pain during the surgery.
  2. Eye Preparation: The eye and its surroundings are sterilized. A special tool is placed to keep the eyelid open.
  3. Making an Incision: The surgeon makes a very small incision (usually 2-3 mm) on the edge of the cornea. This incision is so small that it often does not require stitches.
  4. Capsulorexis: A small opening is created in the anterior capsule that surrounds the lens. This allows the lens to be removed and the new lens to be inserted.
  5. Phacoemulsification: The ultrasonic probe is inserted into the lens. The probe fragments the lens using ultrasonic waves and absorbs the fragments at the same time.
  6. Cleaning Lens Elements: All lens elements are carefully cleaned and sucked in.
  7. Artificial Lens Placement: The foldable artificial lens is inserted into the eye through a small incision and opened. The lens is placed in the capsule of the old lens.
  8. Completion of the Surgery: It is filled with intraocular fluid and the incision is left to close on its own. Usually no stitches are required.

This procedure usually takes 15-20 minutes and the patient can go home the same day. Postoperative vision usually improves quickly, but full recovery can take several weeks.

Postoperative Recovery Process

The recovery process after cataract surgery is quick and smooth for most patients. However, it is important to follow some rules in order to achieve optimal results and minimize the risk of complications. Here are the things to consider during the post-operative recovery process:

  1. First 24 Hours:
    • Rest for a few hours after surgery.
    • Do not drive and do heavy work.
    • Wear the eye protection shield for the time prescribed by the doctor.
    • Use the given eye drops regularly.
  2. First Week:
    • Avoid rubbing or pressing your eye.
    • Be careful not to get water in your eyes while washing your face.
    • Avoid heavy lifting and bending.
    • Do not wear eye makeup.
    • Stay away from swimming and sauna.
  3. First Month:
    • Go for regular check-ups.
    • Protect your eyes from bright light by wearing sunglasses.
    • Stay away from dust and dirty environments.
    • Follow the activity restrictions recommended by your doctor.

Most patients can return to their normal activities a few days after surgery. However, it may take several weeks for full recovery and visual clarity to settle in. During this time, there may be mild discomfort, blurred vision, or redness of the eye. These symptoms are usually temporary and subside over time.

The important thing is to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and contact your doctor immediately if you have any abnormal conditions (such as severe pain, vision loss, extreme redness).

 

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