YAG Capsulotomy

During cataract surgery, Dr. Newman replaces the clouded, blurry area of the lens with an artificial one to correct vision.  However, after surgery, many people experience a gradual clouding on the covering of the new lens, a condition known as after-cataract or secondary membrane. Clouding is the most common complication of cataract surgery and can cause blurred vision to return, but a solution is available to treat this side effect.

A procedure called a posterior capsulotomy, using an Nd: YAG laser, can be performed to remove the back lining of the lens capsule let light pass through to the retina. The laser cuts a hole in the back lining and helps remove cloudiness in the lens.

The capsulotomy can be performed at the Newman Eye Center and is a painless procedure that does not require any anesthesia. It is considered a safe procedure and most people only experience short-term increased eye pressure.

A YAG capsulotomy cannot prevent clouding of the lens, but can be beneficial to the 1 in 4 people who develop this condition. It is important to weigh the possible risks and benefits, similar to that of the original cataract surgery, before deciding upon treatment. Most people experience improved vision and reduced glare after undergoing a posterior capsulotomy.