Posterior Capsule Opacification
An outpatient YAG laser procedure using only eye drop anesthesia.
Written & reviewed by
Dr. Atsushi MekadaBoard-certified Ophthalmologist, The Japanese Ophthalmological SocietyLast updated:
About Posterior Capsule Opacification
For anyone troubled by symptoms after cataract surgery
After cataract surgery, the membrane (posterior capsule) that supports the artificial lens can become cloudy again over time. This is a relatively common change that can develop some time after cataract surgery. If your vision becomes hazy again some time after cataract surgery, posterior capsule opacification may be the cause.
Symptoms
- Vision declining again after cataract surgery
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- Oncoming headlights or streetlights seem brighter than before
- Colors look dull, text is hard to read
- 1–3 years since surgery
Unlike the sudden symptoms right after surgery, posterior capsule opacification develops gradually over time. Some patients worry the surgery "failed," but it occurs when cells remaining in the lens capsule multiply, and does not mean the surgery failed.
Treatment
- YAG laser capsulotomyAn outpatient procedure that uses a laser to create a small opening in the clouded capsule, restoring the path of light. Performed with only eye drop anesthesia, taking about 5–10 minutes, with no hospital stay needed and you can go home right after. Pain experienced varies between individuals. Suitability is determined after examination.
- Vision after treatmentHaziness from posterior capsule opacification usually improves after the procedure, though the degree of improvement also depends on other factors such as the retina and optic nerve. Rarely, elevated eye pressure or inflammation can occur, and there's a small possibility of affecting the implanted intraocular lens.
What to watch for afterward: Eye pressure can temporarily rise after the procedure, so please use the prescribed pressure-lowering eye drops exactly as directed on the day. You may notice floaters (dark specks) from the laser, but these usually resolve naturally within days to weeks. If discomfort persists, or you experience sudden vision loss or flashes of light, seek care immediately.
Ongoing Care
- On the day of the procedure, use the prescribed pressure-lowering eye drops exactly as directed.
- Floater-like symptoms right after the procedure usually resolve naturally, so there's no need for excessive worry.
- If discomfort persists, or you notice sudden vision loss or flashes of light, contact us right away rather than waiting for your next appointment.
- There are no major restrictions on daily life, but regular check-ups for a while afterward help confirm your recovery.
A Note From the Director
Many patients are surprised: “I had surgery, and now it's blurry again?” But posterior capsule opacification is not unusual, and once diagnosed, it can usually be treated with a short outpatient YAG laser procedure. If your vision feels off after cataract surgery, please come in for an exam.
Related Pages
Please note: The effects of the treatments described on this page vary between individuals, and no particular outcome is guaranteed. The severity and course of your condition will be explained by your doctor after examination.
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We welcome patients from Hikone and across Shiga Prefecture, as well as from Kyoto City, Takatsuki and Hirakata (Osaka), and the Nagoya (Aichi) area.