YAG capsulotomy is a procedure used to treat secondary cataracts, also known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO).

What are secondary cataracts?

Secondary cataracts can occur after you have undergone cataract surgery. During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens of your eye is replaced with an artificial lens implant. Over time, some patients may develop a thickening and clouding of the capsule that holds the lens implant in place, causing blurred vision, increased glare, or other visual disturbances. A YAG capsulotomy is a safe and effective procedure used to treat secondary cataracts.

What is a YAG capsulotomy?

A YAG capsulotomy is a non-invasive laser procedure performed to improve vision by removing the cloudy capsule behind the artificial lens implant. The name "YAG" refers to the type of laser used, which is a Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet laser.

Before the procedure:

1. 1. Consultation: Your eye care professional will evaluate your eye health and determine if a YAG capsulotomy is necessary and appropriate for your condition.
   
   

2. 2. Preparation: You may need to undergo various tests to assess your eye's health, measure intraocular pressure, and evaluate your vision.

During the procedure:

3. 3. Pupil dilation: Your eye care professional will dilate your pupil using eye drops.
   
   

4. 4. Procedure: You will be seated in front of a specialized laser machine. The doctor will use a laser to create a small, painless opening in the cloudy capsule, allowing light to pass through and restore clear vision.
   
   

5. 5. Duration: The procedure is typically brief, lasting only a few minutes.
   
   

After the procedure:

6. 6. Recovery: You can usually resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure. However, someone should drive you home.
   
   

7. 7. Vision changes: Your vision may initially appear blurry or distorted, but this is normal and temporary. It should improve over the next few hours or days.
   
   

8. 8. Medications: Your doctor may prescribe eye drops to use for a few days to prevent inflammation or infection. Follow the instructions provided.
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9. 9. Follow-up: You will have a follow-up appointment to assess your healing progress and evaluate your visual acuity.

This information is provided as a general overview of YAG capsulotomy. If you have specific questions or concerns about your condition or the procedure, it's important to consult with your eye care provider. We can provide personalized information and guidance based on your individual circumstances. Contact our office if you are concerned you may have a secondary cataract or have any questions about the procedure.