If you have had cataract surgery, you may eventually develop a condition called a secondary cataract. This condition is treated with a YAG laser capsulotomy. This procedure allows light to enter the eye without blurriness, restoring your vision to its normal level. This quick and painless treatment resolves secondary cataracts with minimal disruption or recovery time. 

What is YAG Laser Capsulotomy?

YAG laser capsulotomy is a laser procedure that corrects secondary cataracts. This condition often occurs after cataract surgery. While you will see clearly after your cataract surgery, you may eventually notice increased blurriness, haze, and glare. YAG treats these secondary cataracts with a short laser procedure that gives the light a clear pathway into the eye. 

What is a Secondary Cataract?

A cataract occurs when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and harder to see through. Surgeons treat cataracts by removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial one. 

Secondary cataracts develop when the capsule behind the artificial lens becomes cloudy. A visually significant secondary cataract typically occurs two to five years after cataract surgery, but may occur as early as a few weeks or a few months afterwards. Most people who have cataract surgery can develop this condition. Fortunately, you have a fast and safe treatment option available to bring back your clear sight. 

How Does YAG Laser Capsulotomy Work?

Dr. Alabata begins the procedure by dilating your eye. The procedure causes no discomfort and is usually over within five minutes. 

The YAG laser creates a small opening in the clouded capsule behind the artificial lens. The precision of a YAG laser allows Dr. Alabata to focus the energy on the capsule without affecting any surrounding tissues. Light can travel through the created opening without obstruction, letting it focus properly on the retina again. 

What to Expect After YAG Laser Capsulotomy

Most people can drive themselves home after a YAG laser capsulotomy. You should regain the vision you had after cataract surgery within 24 to 48 hours. You might notice floaters in your eye after the procedure, but these are harmless and will settle down without treatment. Side effects are uncommon, and most patients have resumed their usual activities within a day or two. You will have no limitations on physical activity or anything else you want to do afterwards. 

Am I a Good Candidate for a YAG Laser Capsulotomy?

If you develop secondary cataracts, you are most likely a candidate for a YAG laser capsulotomy. This procedure is an immediate and effective way to correct this condition. Good candidates have been diagnosed with secondary cataracts after a complete eye examination. Dr. Alabata will determine whether a YAG laser capsulotomy is right for you. 

What Results Will I See After a YAG Laser Capsulotomy?

Results may be noticeable immediately after the procedure, although you will need a day or two to appreciate the full effect. YAG laser capsulotomy results are typically long-lasting, and complications are rare. With the number of patients who develop this common condition after cataract surgery, Dr. Alabata performs this procedure regularly, and his experience ensures that you achieve restored vision. 

Take the Next Step 

To schedule your in-person YAG laser capsulotomy consultation, call Alabata Eye Center at (850) 331-3937. A referral is not necessary. Thank you for trusting our professional services!