YAG laser posterior capsulotomy
Clears clouding behind an artificial lens after cataract surgery.
Read about capsulotomyLASER & ADVANCED PROCEDURES
YAG laser treatment
YAG laser treatment can refer to different procedures. Two common treatments are posterior capsulotomy, which clears clouding behind an artificial lens after cataract surgery, and peripheral iridotomy, which creates a tiny opening in the iris to help prevent or treat angle closure. The right option depends on the eye examination and diagnosis.
ABOUT YAG LASER
Two common YAG procedures
At Truevision Eye Hospital, Dr. Jinish Upadhyay can assess your eye and discuss whether YAG laser treatment is appropriate for you. This guide explains what each procedure treats, what to expect during a visit, and which symptoms need urgent attention.
YAG laser peripheral iridotomy
Creates a tiny opening in the iris to help prevent or treat angle closure.
Read about iridotomyPROCEDURE 1
YAG laser posterior capsulotomy
What is posterior capsule opacification (PCO)?
During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens is removed and a clear artificial lens is placed inside the eye’s natural lens capsule. The capsule behind the artificial lens can become cloudy or wrinkled over time. This is called posterior capsule opacification, or PCO. It may cause hazy, dim, or blurred vision and increased glare.
Is PCO another cataract?
No. A cataract is clouding of the eye’s natural lens. PCO is clouding of the capsule that holds the artificial lens after cataract surgery. People sometimes call it a "secondary cataract," but the original cataract has not grown back.
What symptoms can PCO cause?
You may notice that vision becomes less clear again after improving following cataract surgery. Symptoms can include blur, haze, dimness, or glare around bright lights. An eye examination is needed to determine whether PCO or another eye condition is causing the change.
How does YAG capsulotomy improve vision?
The ophthalmologist uses a focused laser to make a small opening in the cloudy back part of the capsule. This lets light pass through to the retina more clearly. The procedure does not remove or replace the artificial lens.
How is the procedure performed?
YAG capsulotomy is usually done in an outpatient clinic. Drops may be used to numb the eye and widen the pupil. You sit at an examination microscope while the ophthalmologist focuses the laser. A contact lens may be placed gently on the eye to steady it and focus the treatment. You may see bright light and hear clicking sounds. The laser part usually takes only a few minutes, though the full visit can take longer because of examination and pressure checks.
Is YAG capsulotomy painful?
Most people feel little or no pain. Some notice a brief flicking sensation or mild pressure. Tell the clinician if you feel uncomfortable or need a pause.
What should I expect after capsulotomy?
Vision can be blurry for a while because of the drops, and small floaters may appear. Vision often improves within a day, although it can take longer. The amount of improvement depends on the health of the rest of the eye. Your clinician may check eye pressure, prescribe drops, or arrange follow-up based on your needs. Follow the specific advice from your clinic and do not drive until your vision is clear and safe.
What are the risks of YAG capsulotomy?
Possible risks include a temporary rise in eye pressure, inflammation, floaters, or a small mark on the artificial lens. Rarely, the retina can be damaged or detach. Your personal risk may depend on your eye health and history, including previous retinal problems or significant nearsightedness. Dr. Jinish Upadhyay can discuss how your individual eye history affects the decision.
Will I need capsulotomy more than once?
Many people need one treatment in the treated eye, but your ophthalmologist can advise for your situation. Keep any follow-up appointments recommended by your clinic.
PROCEDURE 2
YAG laser peripheral iridotomy
Fluid can pass through the opening toward the eye’s drainage angle.
The opening is usually hidden beneath the upper lid.
What is a peripheral iridotomy?
A laser creates a tiny opening in the iris, the colored part at the front of the eye. The opening provides another route for fluid to move through the eye and may help reduce the risk of angle closure in people with a narrow drainage angle. It is a different YAG procedure from capsulotomy.
Why might an iridotomy be recommended?
In some eyes, the iris can crowd or block the drainage angle. If the angle closes, pressure inside the eye can rise and damage the optic nerve. Your ophthalmologist may recommend iridotomy after examining the drainage angle and considering your risk.
How is laser peripheral iridotomy performed?
The treatment is usually performed while you are seated at an eye-examination microscope. Drops may be used to prepare the pupil and numb the eye. A contact lens may be placed gently on the eye to help focus the laser. You may see bright light, hear clicks, and feel a brief flick or pressure. The laser part generally takes a few minutes, but checks before and afterward can make the appointment longer.
Will one or both eyes be treated?
That depends on your examination and individual risk. Your ophthalmologist may recommend treatment in one eye or both. Ask which eye is being treated and why.
What should I expect after iridotomy?
Vision may be dim or blurry for several hours, and you may have mild discomfort or a temporary headache. The clinic may check your eye pressure after treatment. Anti-inflammatory or pressure-lowering drops may be prescribed. Use them on the exact schedule provided, and continue your usual glaucoma medicines unless your clinician tells you otherwise. Arrange a ride if your vision may be affected, and do not drive until it is clear and safe.
What are possible side effects or risks?
A temporary rise in eye pressure, inflammation, mild discomfort, or a small amount of bleeding inside the eye can occur. Some people notice glare, ghosting, lines, shadows, or other visual disturbances. These effects often improve, but can persist for some people. A repeat laser treatment or additional treatment may sometimes be needed. Ask Dr. Jinish Upadhyay which risks are most relevant to your eyes.
Does an iridotomy cure glaucoma?
No. An iridotomy can reduce risk from angle closure for many people, but it does not reverse existing optic nerve damage or guarantee that eye pressure will always remain normal. Some people still need pressure checks, glaucoma drops, or other treatment. Keep the follow-up appointments recommended by your eye specialist.
Can angle closure still happen after iridotomy?
An iridotomy addresses one cause of angle closure, but it may not remove every reason the drainage angle can remain narrow or become blocked. Your ophthalmologist may recommend continued monitoring or additional treatment, even if you feel well.
GOOD TO KNOW
YAG laser treatment questions
Is YAG laser treatment the same as laser vision correction?
No. Capsulotomy and iridotomy treat structures inside the eye. They are different from laser vision correction procedures that reshape the cornea.
Can I return to normal activities after YAG laser treatment?
Many people resume routine activities soon afterward, but vision may be blurry or light-sensitive for a time. Follow your clinic’s advice about driving, work, exercise, and other activities. Instructions can differ depending on the procedure and your eye health.
Should I stop my regular eye drops?
Do not stop or change prescribed medicines or eye drops unless your clinician tells you to. Before leaving the clinic, make sure you understand which drops to use, how often to use them, and when to stop.
Who should I contact if I have questions after treatment?
Contact your eye care team if you are unsure which drops to use, how often to use them, or when to stop. Call promptly for worsening vision, persistent pain, significant redness, or symptoms that worry you. Sudden vision loss, a dark curtain, flashes with many new floaters, or severe pain needs urgent assessment.
NEXT STEP
YAG laser consultation at Truevision
For an eye examination and personalized guidance about YAG laser treatment, contact Truevision Eye Hospital to ask about a consultation with Dr. Jinish Upadhyay. The appropriate treatment and aftercare depend on your diagnosis, eye health, and medical history.