Why have Yag laser capsulotomy?
During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to improve vision. However, over time, posterior capsule opacification (PCO) can develop, causing the lens capsule to become cloudy. This can lead to blurry vision and difficulty seeing clearly.
YAG laser capsulotomy is a safe and effective treatment for PCO. A precise laser creates a small opening in the cloudy lens capsule during the procedure, allowing light to pass through unobstructed. This quick and painless procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting, with minimal downtime and discomfort.
The results of YAG laser capsulotomy are remarkable. Many patients report immediate improvement in vision, with clearer and sharper images. Say goodbye to the frustrating symptoms of PCO – such as glare, halos, or double vision – and welcome back the clarity you deserve.
Reclaim your independence and enjoy reading, driving, or simply appreciating the world around you with renewed visual acuity. YAG laser capsulotomy is a proven solution that has helped countless individuals regain their vision and confidence.
Benefits:
1. Improved Vision: YAG laser capsulotomy aims to restore clear vision by creating a small opening in the cloudy lens capsule, allowing light to pass through unobstructed.
2. Quick and Painless: The procedure is usually completed within minutes and is typically painless due to the use of topical numbing eye drops.
3. Minimal Recovery Time: Following the procedure, most patients can resume normal activities almost immediately.
Risks:
1. Floaters: Relatively commonly, patients may notice new floaters in their visual field following the procedure. These are usually harmless and tend to dissipate over time.
2. Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP): In some cases, YAG laser capsulotomy may temporarily increase intraocular pressure. This can usually be managed with eye drops and monitoring.
3. Inflammation or Swelling: Mild inflammation or swelling may occur after the procedure, causing temporary discomfort and blurred vision. This can typically be resolved with prescribed medication.
4. Cystoid Macular Oedema (CMO): Another rare complication is the development of CMO, which can cause blurred or distorted central vision. This can be managed with medication in most cases.
5. Retinal Detachment: Although rare, there is a small risk of retinal detachment associated with any intraocular procedure. Signs of retinal detachment include sudden onset of flashes of light or a curtain-like shadow across your vision.
Your eye care specialist will discuss any additional risks specific to your situation during your consultation.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
- You can take all your usual medication.
- Avoid wearing eye makeup to avoid it being smudged.
- Make arrangements for transportation after the procedure, as your vision may be temporarily affected. It is recommended to have someone accompany you or arrange for a taxi service to ensure a safe trip back home.
Points to note:
The procedure is carried out in the eye clinic.
You should expect to be in the eye clinic for approximately two hours
What will happen?
- When you arrive at the clinic your vision will be assessed and drops will be put into your eye(s) to dilate the pupils.
- The doctor or optometrist will explain the procedure and get you to sign your consent form
The procedure
You will be taken into the laser room, where you will sit at a machine with a chin and headrest similar to the examination equipment in the clinic. Anaesthetic drops will be instilled to numb the eye before a special contact lens is placed on it. The laser treatment will then be applied. This takes only a few minutes and is not painful. You would see some flashing lights and hear a clicking noise as the laser is applied.
What happens afterwards?
Your vision will be blurred for a few hours after the laser treatment due to the effect of the eye drops used to dilate the pupil to allow the laser treatment to be performed. You may be prescribed some eye drops or tablets for a short while, to protect the eye against any inflammation or short-term increase in pressure in the eye. A follow-up appointment following the procedure is not usually required, unless you are under the Eye Clinic for a pre-existing condition, you would normally be discharged.
What do I do if I have a problem afterwards?
During working hours, telephone AlphaSiGHT reception on 023 8200 1133. Out of hours, you will be given a number to contact in the unlikely event of an emergency.