Carolinas Centers For Sight

Cataracts | Cataract Surgery | YAG Laser Capsulotomy | Multifocal IOLs | Testimonials

YAG Laser Posterior Capsulotomy

During cataract surgery, the lens cells (cataract tissue) are removed from the lens capsule and a sterile artificial lens is placed inside the empty capsule. However, not every single microscopic lens cell can be removed. Sometimes, any remaining cells will attach themselves to the capsule and form a wrinkle or an opaque membrane on the inside of the capsule, like a tiny scar. When this occurs on the capsule immediately behind the new artificial lens implant, it may blur or obstruct the view seen by the retina.

A simple laser procedure can be done in the office to correct this by opening the capsule and clearing the opacity that has formed behind the lens implant. This is painless and done sitting up like one is having an eye examination. There is no need to fast before the procedure or get an IV sedative.

On the day of the laser procedure, patients will be at the surgery center for several hours. Vital signs will be taken and the eye will be dilated. The actual laser will only take a few minutes. Vision is usually improved the following day and medicated eye drops are usually needed for only a short time.

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