A cataract is a clouding of the lens in your eye. Surgery can be done to remove the cataract and replace the lens. This can help you see better. The two most common ways to remove a cataract are phacoemulsification and extracapsular extraction.
Phacoemulsification
A small cut (incision) is made in the cornea. This is the clear cover on the front of your eye. Or a cut may be made in the white part of your eye (sclera). Then an opening is made in the anterior capsule. This is the front portion of the thin outer covering of the lens. A tiny ultrasound probe is inserted into the lens through the opening in the anterior capsule. Sound vibrations from the probe break the cloudy lens into tiny pieces. The pieces are then suctioned out. Stitches may be needed after this is done.
Extracapsular extraction
This method makes a larger cut in the cornea. The entire lens can then be removed at once through the cut. Stitches are used to close the cut after the procedure.
Implanting an IOL
After the cloudy lens is removed, it's replaced with a plastic lens called an IOL (intraocular lens).
Online Medical Reviewer: Chris Haupert MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Tara Novick BSN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Whitney Seltman MD
Date Last Reviewed: 11/01/2022
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Find the right provider to meet your needs
From primary care to specialty services and more.
Find a Doctor
Call for an Appointment
Offering personalized care at more than 20 clinics across three cities and two states.
Call NowRelated Articles
Having Corneal Ring Implantation
Corneal ring implantation is a surgery to put in a small ring of plastic into the cornea. It is done to fix an eyesight problem and let you see more clearly.
Ultraviolet Keratitis
Ultraviolet keratitis is when exposure to too much UV (ultraviolet) light hurts your cornea. This causes pain and affects your vision.
Understanding Pneumatic Retinopexy
Pneumatic retinopexy is a procedure to correct a detached retina. It helps to bring back vision. It uses a special tool to repair the retina, and a small bubble of gas to hold the retina in place so it can heal.
Refractive Surgery: Is It Right for You?
Refractive surgery can improve your eyesight, but it does have some risks.