4-Minute Phaco™ is a refined approach to cataract surgery that completes the operative phase in approximately four minutes. The technique is performed during standard phacoemulsification, the most common method of cataract removal in the UK.
How the Technique Works
The “four-minute” element refers to the time from corneal incision to wound closure. This efficiency results from standardised surgical steps, not rushed execution. Key features include:
- Stable anterior chamber dynamics throughout the procedure
- Controlled phacoemulsification energy to protect the cornea
- Minimal instrument exchanges and tissue manipulation
Reduced intraocular time lowers stress on delicate eye structures, particularly the corneal endothelium.
Why Consistency Matters
Surgical speed alone does not determine quality. The value of 4-Minute Phaco™ lies in its reproducibility across thousands of cases. Consistent execution reduces variability, which supports predictable outcomes and lower complication rates. The technique reflects high-volume experience and disciplined pre-operative planning.
Recovery and Outcomes
Most patients notice improved vision within 24 to 48 hours. Faster procedures typically result in less post-operative inflammation and quicker visual stabilisation. For more detail on what the technique looks like in practice, see The 4-Minute Phaco™ Series: What High-Volume Cataract Surgery Really Looks Like.
