Cataract surgery is a common procedure that can restore clear vision to people who have cataracts. Cataracts are cloudy areas that develop in the lens of the eye. As the lens becomes cloudy, it can make it difficult to see clearly. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can usually be done on an outpatient basis.
There are two main types of cataract surgery: phacoemulsification and extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE). Phacoemulsification is the most common type of cataract surgery. In this procedure, a small incision is made in the eye and a high-frequency ultrasound probe is used to break up the cataract. The pieces of the cataract are then suctioned out of the eye.