The two most commonly used methods are the phacoemulsification technique and the extracapsular technique. With the phacoemulsification technique, the cloudy lens is broken up, using an ultrasound probe that allows removal of the pieces through a tiny incision. A soft, plastic intraocular lens is then carefully inserted, and visual recovery is very rapid. The incision may not even require sutures. With the extracapsular technique, a larger incision is necessary, and the cataract is removed using delicate instruments.
Visual rehabilitation takes somewhat longer than it does with the phacoemulsification method.
With both of these techniques, the side and back of the capsule, in the form of a bag, is left behind. The back part of the capsule may thicken and cloud. It then may be opened using a special laser called the YAG laser. This procedure usually takes only a few minutes. It's painless and is performed in the doctor's office on an outpatient basis.