The Blue Line Incision

Capsulorhexsis:
A round opening
in the Natural lens

Refractive Phacoemulsification

Using techniques developed at the Buzard Eye Institute, the removal of the cataract is a safe and straightforward process. It is performed without sutures through a micro incision in the eye and takes less than 10 minutes.

No pain is experienced either during or after the procedure due to complete local anesthesia.

The process begins with the creation of a micro (2.7 mm) incision (the "Blue Line" incision) with a diamond knife designed by Dr. Buzard. This incision, again developed at the Buzard Eye Institute, is safer in terms of closure and heals more rapidly than comparable incisions.

A round opening is then made in the skin of the natural lens, which is like a grape, with a skin and a softer interior. Next, using a special probe with suction, the interior of the natural lens is removed, leaving only the skin. This technique is called phacoemulsification and uses ultrasound to remove the cataract. Lasers are not used to remove the cataract but may be used after the surgery. The lens capsule is carefully cleaned and polished, providing a natural location for the new lens (the intraocular lens) that will be inserted into the eye to correct vision. The lens is flexible and actually fits through the tiny initial incision, opening inside the eye into the "skin" of the natural lens. Over time, the capsule contracts, "shrink-wrapping" the lens in place and making it a permanent part of the eye. The new lens becomes so well integrated into the eye that even severe trauma will not dislodge it.

Removing the Interior

Putting in the New Lens

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