Laser cataract removal

Procedure Information

What is Laser cataract removal (Removal of recurring secondary cataract in lens capsule using laser)?

Cataract surgery is a procedure used to remove the lens of the eyes and replace it with a new artificial lens. Cataract usually affects old people, and it results in a cloudy lens that impairs normal visions. Normally, the lens should be clear to allow light to hit the retina of the eye. 

A secondary cataract happens when people who've had cataract surgery develop recurring cataracts. The medical term for this complication is known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO). PCO happens when the part of the lens that wasn’t removed during surgery (the back of the lens) becomes cloudy and impairs vision.

Why would I get secondary cataract removal?

Secondary cataracts develop in 3 out of 10 patients. It can take weeks, months, or months to develop secondary cataracts. If the part of the lens that wasn’t taken out during cataract surgery is now impairing your vision, your doctor will suggest this procedure. 

Secondary cataracts can be treated with a method called Yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser capsulotomy. Your ophthalmologist will use a laser beam to make a tiny hole in the scar tissue behind the lens to let the light pass through. 

What happens during secondary cataract removal?

Yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser capsulotomy is generally a painless, fast outpatient procedure. During the procedure, the doctor uses a laser beam to make a small hole in the clouded capsule to provide a clear pass for light to pass through.

What to expect after the procedure?

You will be monitored in the doctor’s office for an hour to make sure that there are no complications developed. Complications are rare but they include retinal detachment and increased eye pressure.

Conclusion

You may notice blurred vision for the next few days after the procedure. Vision generally takes few days to fully recover. In case of seeing flashing lights or a dark curtain that moves up and down or sideways, you should immediately visit your doctor.

Citations

Mayo Clinic: Cataract surgery

Johns Hopkins: Cataract surgery

Cleveland Eye Clinic: CATARACTS