# Cataract Treatment with Phaco Method

Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/treatments/cataract-treatment-with-phaco-method

**Author:** Opr. Dr. Mehmet Ali Özdil | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek | **Date:** 2026-09-10

> **Summary:** Phaco is the most commonly used cataract operation: the clouded lens is broken up with ultrasound through a 2.2 mm incision, removed by vacuum and replaced with an intraocular lens. It is done under anaesthetic eye drops without stitches and requires microsurgical experience.

## Quick Facts
- **Operation duration:** about 15-20 minutes per eye (longer depending on cataract level and chosen lens)
- **Incision:** 2.2 mm, sealed by hydrating the edges, no stitches
- **Anaesthesia:** topical eye drops, sedation if needed
- **Recovery:** back to daily life in 3-4 days, full recovery in 3-4 weeks
- **Price:** from £850 per eye (monofocal)

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## What It Is
Phaco surgery treats cataract through mini incisions using an ultrasonic phaco device. Success depends on surgeon experience, thorough preoperative examinations, operating theatre sterilisation and material quality.

## How It Is Performed
- A 2.2 mm incision is made and the phaco needle is inserted.
- Ultrasonic energy breaks up the lens; the particles are removed with the device's vacuum and the lens interior is fully cleaned.
- The intraocular lens is placed in the posterior capsule sac left in place.
- Incision edges are sealed by hydration and antibiotics are applied.

## Causes of Cataract
Aging is the main cause; cataract becomes more common after 55-60 but can occur early.
- Genetic origin
- Metabolic diseases such as diabetes
- Blunt and penetrating eye injury
- Long-term cortisone use
- Excessive sun exposure
- Chemical exposure
- Some eye diseases

## Symptoms
- Decreased vision, especially noticed when the healthy eye is closed
- Fading and yellowing of colours
- Discomfort from light at night
- Difficulty reading

## When to Have Surgery
Surgery is the only treatment. It is advised when blurred vision affects daily life, and is especially important for drivers. An overly delayed cataract can raise eye pressure and cause permanent vision loss.

## Who It Suits
**Usually suitable:** diagnosed cataract; blurred vision affecting reading or driving; faded or yellowish colours; night-time light problems; wish to reduce dependence on glasses with the implanted lens.

**Needs a closer look:** diabetes (especially uncontrolled); pupil that does not dilate enough; previous uveitis or adhesions; advanced glaucoma or retinal disease; active eye infection.

## Prices
The price varies with the underlying cause and the operation and is set after a detailed examination. All packages include accommodation (4 nights), three meals a day, round-trip airport transfers, doctor examination, all eye tests, lenses and operation, surgery control and payment on site. Package prices do not change with the prescription; for astigmatism a toric lens option is available at a separate price.

| Lens | Price (Per Eye) | Method |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Alcon Clareon Monofocal | £850 | Need glasses for reading |
| Alcon Clareon PanOptix Multifocal | £1,275 | Distance & Near & Intermediate |
| Alcon Clareon Vivity | £1,425 | EDOF (extended depth of focus) |
| Johnson & Johnson Odyssey Multifocal (most chosen) | £1,450 | Distance & Near & Intermediate |
| Alcon Clareon PanOptix Pro Multifocal | £1,500 | Distance & Near & Intermediate |
| Johnson & Johnson PureSee (most chosen) | £1,600 | EDOF (extended depth of focus) |
| Johnson & Johnson Odyssey Toric Multifocal | £1,650 | Distance & Near & Intermediate |

## Lens Types
- **Monofocal:** one distance, usually far; reading glasses still needed.
- **Monofocal Toric:** also corrects astigmatism; precise positioning needed.
- **Trifocal (Multifocal):** far, intermediate and near; halos at night in the first 6 months.
- **Trifocal (Multifocal) Toric:** trifocal plus astigmatism correction at extra charge.
- **EDOF:** far to intermediate; near focus around 40 cm instead of 30 cm; fewer halos; suited after previous laser surgery or for night driving.

## Risks and Possible Side Effects
- **Infection:** very rare; antibiotic drops before and after surgery.
- **Temporary rise in eye pressure:** first few days, controlled with drops.
- **Posterior capsule opacification:** months or years later; cleared with a quick, painless YAG laser treatment lasting 1-2 minutes.
- **Temporary dryness, grittiness or redness:** first weeks.
- **Retinal detachment:** very rare; sudden flashes, new floaters or a shadow need immediate contact.

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## The Treatment Journey

### After Treatment
- Do not rub or press the eyes.
- Do not lie on the side of the operated eye.
- Avoid very windy and sunny weather.
- Avoid heavy physical activity.
- Attend check-ups and use prescribed drops and medicines regularly.

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## References
- Cataracts in adults: management (NG77), NICE
- Cataract surgery, NHS
- Intraocular Lenses (IOL) for Cataract Surgery, AAO