It is surprisingly common for patients to notice their vision becoming hazy, blurry, or glary in the months or years after cataract surgery. If this has happened to you, the most likely cause is a condition called posterior capsule opacification, or PCO. The good news is that it is not your cataract coming back, and it is treated with a simple five-minute laser procedure called YAG capsulotomy, performed right here at Northern Eye Consultants in Bundoora.
What is posterior capsule opacification?
When your cataract is removed, the lens implant is placed inside a thin natural membrane called the capsular bag. The back wall of this bag, the posterior capsule, is left in place to support the implant. In some patients, cells grow on this membrane over time and make it cloudy, which scatters light and causes the same kinds of symptoms as the original cataract.
PCO is not a sign that anything went wrong with your surgery. It is a natural biological response that can happen regardless of how straightforward your operation was. Modern lens implants are designed to reduce the risk, but it cannot be eliminated entirely.
For a more detailed clinical explanation of what causes PCO and how the laser works, see the full guide to YAG capsulotomy and posterior capsule opacification at corneaeyedoctor.com.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of PCO feel very similar to the original cataract. You may notice your vision becoming hazy or foggy, increased glare around lights particularly at night, difficulty reading, or reduced contrast so that colours seem less vivid. The change is usually gradual, developing over months.
If you had clear vision after your cataract surgery and have noticed it getting worse over time, it is worth having your eyes checked. Do not assume it is your glasses prescription that needs updating.
What does the YAG laser treatment involve?
YAG capsulotomy is a simple outpatient procedure performed in our consulting rooms at cataract surgery at Northpark Private Hospital. No incisions or injections are required. Your pupil is dilated with drops and the surface of your eye is numbed. A small contact lens is placed on the eye to help focus the laser beam, and the ophthalmologist uses the laser to create a small clear opening in the cloudy membrane. The procedure takes approximately five minutes.
Most patients notice a significant improvement in their vision within 24 hours. You will need someone to drive you home on the day as your pupils will be dilated. You can return to normal activities the following day in most cases.
Is YAG capsulotomy safe?
Yes. YAG capsulotomy is one of the safest laser procedures in ophthalmology and is performed routinely at Northern Eye Consultants. The most common side effect is temporary floaters in the weeks following the procedure, which usually settle on their own. Serious complications are uncommon. Your ophthalmologist will discuss any specific risks relevant to your eye at your appointment.
Once the procedure is done, the opening in the capsule remains permanently clear. PCO cannot come back in an eye that has had YAG capsulotomy.
Is it covered by Medicare?
Yes. YAG capsulotomy attracts a Medicare rebate in Australia when performed for posterior capsule opacification causing visual impairment. Patients with private health insurance may have additional cover. Our team can provide a full cost estimate when you book your appointment.
How do I get a referral?
If you have noticed your vision becoming hazy after cataract surgery, ask your GP or optometrist for a referral to Northern Eye Consultants. You can request to see the ophthalmologist who performed your original surgery, or any member of our cataract surgeons at Northern Eye Consultants. Referrals can be addressed to Northern Eye Consultants, Northpark Private Hospital, Bundoora. You can also call our rooms on (03) 9466 8822 or send a referral via HealthLink EDI nthneyec.
For detailed procedure guides and patient information from Dr MacIntyre, visit drmacintyre.com and corneaeyedoctor.com.