Cataracts and
No Stitch/Small Incision Surgery
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| An intraocular lens replaces the cloudy lens |
No-stitch/small incision surgery are techniques used to restore vision loss due to cataracts. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a plastic lens (IOL) implant. Ultrasound technology (phacoemulsification) is used to remove the cataract. A special lens can then be implanted through a smaller incision than is required in traditional cataract surgery.
What are no-stitch/small incision surgery techniques?
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Traditional cataract surgery requires an incision that spans a third of the circumference of the cornea and needs as many as eight stitches to close. In contrast, the phaco technique allows the cloudy lens to be removed through an incision as small as 1/6 of an inch wide.
No-stitch self sealing incision
In many cases the incision can be closed with just one stitch. In cases where the surgeon can use a technique that does not require sutures, the natural pressure inside the eye is used to keep the incision closed while the eye heals.
What results can be expected after no-stitch/small incision surgery?
Most patients can expect a rapid return to good vision following no-stitch/small incision cataract surgery. In many cases, patients are able to see relatively well the day after surgery without glasses. However, some patients will need to wear glasses for reading and other activities following the procedure. Quickly returning to an active lifestyle is one of the primary benefits of no stitch/small incision cataract surgery. "Secondary" cataracts may develop following cataract surgery. If this occurs an outpatient laser procedure will quickly restore good vision.