Which surgery is the most commonly performed in eye care?

Cataract surgery is indeed the most commonly performed surgical procedure in eye care. This surgery involves the removal of the cloudy lens of the eye, known as a cataract, and replacing it with an artificial lens. Cataracts are a prevalent condition, particularly among older adults, leading to significant visual impairment. The high incidence of cataracts, combined with the effectiveness and safety of the surgical procedure, contributes to the frequency with which it is performed.

This procedure often restores vision quickly, making it a preferred choice for many patients. The advances in techniques and technology, such as phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation, have further enhanced its success rate and have made it a routine outpatient surgery.

While other types of eye surgeries, such as LASIK, glaucoma surgery, and retinal surgery, are important and serve specific needs, they do not match the volume of cataract surgeries performed annually. For instance, LASIK is primarily elective and aimed at correcting refractive errors, while glaucoma surgeries are often part of a larger management plan for chronic conditions, and retinal surgeries address specific issues, such as detachment or diabetic retinopathy. Thus, cataract surgery stands out as the most common in the context of eye care.