Phacoemulsification is a modern cataract surgery procedure in which an ultrasonic device is used to break up and then remove a cloudy lens, or cataract, from the eye to improve vision. The lens matter is broken up, emulsified and then sucked out of the eye. The aspirated fluid is simultaneously replaced with irrigation of a balanced salt solution. The insertion of an intraocular lens (IOL) usually immediately follows phacoemulsification.
To reduce post surgical astigmatism, the main incision wound has now been reduced from 2.8mm to less than 2.4mm. The procedure is then known as Micro Incision Cataract Surgery (MICS).
