YAG Laser Procedure after Cataract Surgery

Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is a common condition that can occur after cataract surgery. It happens when the back part of the lens capsule, which was left in the eye during the surgery to hold the artificial lens in place, becomes cloudy or thickened. This can cause blurred vision, glare, or difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.

PCO occurs because residual lens cells left in the eye after cataract surgery can grow and multiply on the back surface of the capsule, causing it to become cloudy. The risk of developing PCO after cataract surgery is higher in certain patients, such as those with diabetes or a history of eye inflammation.

The good news is that PCO is easily treatable with a quick and painless procedure called a YAG laser capsulotomy. During this procedure, a laser is used to create a small opening in the cloudy posterior capsule, restoring clear vision.

At Corinth Eye Clinic and Weeden Eye Clinic, the YAG laser procedure for cataracts typically involves the following steps:

1. The patient will receive numbing eye drops to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
2. The eye doctor will use a special lens to focus the YAG laser beam on the posterior capsule of the lens implant in the eye.
3. The laser beam will create a small, circular opening in the posterior capsule, allowing light to pass through the lens and onto the retina.
4. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes to complete, and most patients can return home soon after the treatment.

Patients may experience mild discomfort or blurry vision after the procedure, but these symptoms usually subside quickly. The eye doctor will provide post-operative instructions to ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications.

It’s important to note that the YAG laser procedure for cataracts may not be appropriate for all patients or all types of cataracts. Patients should consult with their eye doctor to determine whether the procedure is right for them and to learn more about the specific details of their treatment.