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Intracapsular Surgery for Cataracts

Intracapsular cataract surgery removes the lens and the entire membrane wrapped around the lens (capsule).

When the whole lens capsule is removed, there is a greater chance of complications in the back of the eye:

  • The gel in the eye (vitreous gel) may ooze into the front of the eye, which can then cause the retina to detach (retinal detachment).
  • Extensive bleeding may occur in the back of the eye.

Compared to extracapsular surgery, intracapsular surgery has a greater risk of complications, including glaucoma, which may result in nerve damage and blindness.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology
Last Revised August 24, 2011

Last Revised: August 24, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine & Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology

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