How can my vision become blurry again after cataract surgery?

Months or years after your cataract surgery, your vision may start to become cloudy as if the cataract was returning. The cataract is not returning because it was removed during your cataract surgery. What usually causes these symptoms is a clouding of the posterior capsule, which is the structure that supports the lens in your eye. If the posterior capsule becomes cloudy, it can block light from reaching the retina just like a cataract.

How is this treated?

A special kind of laser called a Yag laser is used to create an opening in the posterior capsule. A contact lens is placed on your eye to help focus the laser while it creates a clear zone in the center of the capsule. The peripheral capsule will continue to hold the lens in place.

Is this procedure uncomfortable?

The procedure is done in your doctor's office in just a few minutes. This is no pain or discomfort. Your eye will be numbed with eye drops. As you sit in front of the laser, you may hear a clicking sound and see some flashing lights. Your vision will be restored soon after the procedure, but you should still arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards.

What are the possible risks?

• The pressure in the eye may rise briefly.
• The laser may nick the lens implant. This rarely affects the vision.
• Inflammation may develop inside the eye. Your doctor may give you some anti-inflammatory drops to use afterwards.

Will I need this laser treatment repeated?

Once the opening has been created in the posterior capsule, it is permanent and should not require another procedure in the future.