YAG Laser Capsulotomy

About YAG Laser Capsulotomy

The clear lens inside the eye becomes cloudy with age–this is called a cataract. A secondary cataract is when after you have had cataract surgery, the symptoms of a cataract return. 

A YAG laser capsulotomy is an in-office procedure that you can drive yourself in for. It only takes a few minutes to perform once your treatment eye is dilated, there are no limitations afterward, and it is covered by most health insurances.

Yag Laser Capsulotomy Crestview & Okaloosa County

Learn More About YAG Laser Capsulotomy

A secondary cataract is the most common by-product after cataract surgery. It affects anywhere from 20-50% of patients within 2 to 5 years of surgery. In some instances, it may occur as early as a few weeks or months.

When you develop a secondary cataract, symptoms of cataracts such as cloudiness of your vision or glare from the sun or lights at night may reappear. This would be a good time to speak with your eye surgeon about a YAG laser capsulotomy.

Clinically, a secondary cataract is called a posterior capsular opacification or PCO. This occurs when the capsule behind the lens implanted during the cataract surgery becomes cloudy due to the proliferation of epithelial cells around the artificial lens. These changes eventually cause wrinkling in the lens membrane or capsule where the lens is placed, and you experience hazy vision and increased glare and halos.  

During the YAG laser capsulotomy, a small opening is made in the capsule to allow light to once again focus on the retina and improve the quality of your vision. This is performed once the eye is dilated, is very tolerable and painless, and takes only a few minutes to complete. There are no limitations afterward.

It may take a day or two to see as clearly as possible. You may experience several floaters after the procedure that eventually settle down.

A YAG laser capsulotomy is a quick outpatient procedure, covered by most health insurance, and does not need to be repeated. Your vision will be crisp again with reduced glare and halos.

While the known risks of a YAG laser capsulotomy are rare, you can expect to see spots and floaters moving around in your vision afterward. These will soon settle down. Your eye surgeon will discuss these side effects with you following your procedure.

During your initial evaluation of secondary cataracts, Dr. Alabata will consult with you on the prospects of better vision after a YAG laser capsulotomy. 

Schedule now by completing this form or calling us at (850) 331-3937 to discuss with Dr. Phil Alabata if you are a candidate for YAG Laser Capsulotomy. A referral is not required.

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