YAG Laser
A laser procedure that clears the clouded capsule behind a lens implant to restore clear vision after cataract surgery.
YAG laser capsulotomy is a laser treatment used to treat secondary cataract (posterior capsule opacification, PCO) that develops after cataract surgery. After cataract surgery, the back capsule of the artificial lens is left in place so that the newly placed lens stays centred and does not fall to the back of the eye. Over time this capsule can become cloudy, and this can cause a reduction in the quality of vision. This condition is sometimes described to patients as a kind of calcification, dustiness or fogging. YAG laser capsulotomy aims to clear the vision by opening the back of this clouded capsule with a laser.
Why Is YAG Laser Capsulotomy Performed?
Development of secondary cataract: after cataract surgery, the capsule in which the artificial lens is placed can become opaque over time. This leads to complaints such as blurred vision and light sensitivity. It does not occur in every patient; it is seen in about one quarter to one third of patients.
Reduced quality of vision: secondary cataract causes a reduction in visual acuity, and difficulty can be experienced in daily activities. YAG laser capsulotomy improves visual acuity by clearing this cloudiness.
How Is YAG Laser Capsulotomy Performed?
Preparation: before the procedure the pupils are widened with dilating drops, and the eye is numbed with anaesthetic drops. Laser application: the YAG laser creates a small opening in the lens capsule that has become opaque. This opening allows light to pass more easily to the back of the eye and helps the vision become clearer. Short and painless procedure: the procedure usually takes a few minutes and the patient feels no pain.
After YAG Laser Capsulotomy
Improvement in vision: vision improves quickly after treatment and becomes clearer within a few days. Eye drops: the doctor usually prescribes eye drops to prevent infection and speed up healing. First check-ups: a check-up appointment is arranged within the first few weeks after the procedure.
Side Effects and Risks
Temporary blurred vision and floaters: there may be temporary blurred vision and floaters right after the procedure, but these usually settle within a short time. Discomfort in the eye: there may be mild discomfort, light sensitivity or redness in the eye. Retinal detachment: rarely, there is a long-term risk of retinal detachment. For this reason, if a sudden loss of vision, flashes of light or floating objects are felt in the eye after the procedure, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Conclusion
YAG laser capsulotomy is a procedure that aims to treat secondary cataract developing after cataract surgery quickly and effectively. For patients with complaints of blurred vision, the laser treatment generally aims to restore the quality of vision. Because it is still a procedure that carries risks, the decision should be made through an examination by an experienced eye doctor.
This page is for general information and does not replace a personal examination. The right approach is decided together after an eye examination.