Learning About YAG Laser Capsulotomy
What is YAG laser capsulotomy?
YAG laser capsulotomy is surgery to help you see clearly after cataract surgery. You may need this surgery because months or years after cataract surgery, your vision may get fuzzy again. This happens when a membrane in your eye, called the posterior capsule, becomes cloudy. This is sometimes called a "secondary cataract."
How is this surgery done?
Before surgery, you may get medicine to reduce the pressure in your eye. You may also get drops in your eye. You will not feel pain.
The doctor uses a special laser, called a YAG laser, to make an opening in your posterior capsule. This opening lets light pass through the clouded capsule. The light then goes to the nerve layer in the back of your eye (retina). Light must reach your retina for you to see well.
You will not have any stitches or bandages.
What can you expect after YAG laser capsulotomy?
You may have to wait in the outpatient surgery area or the doctor's office for 1 to 2 hours. This is so the doctor can check for pressure in your eye (intraocular pressure, or IOP).
It will take a few days to see as clearly as possible. You shouldn't have pain. You should be able to return to work or your normal routine the day after surgery.
It is common to see spots or floaters for a few weeks after surgery.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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Current as of: June 5, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
