Slight Vision Loss after Cataract Surgery

It is not uncommon many months or years after cataract surgery to feel as though the vision is not as crisp or sharp as it once was. Some patients note a recurrence of glare or difficulties with night driving. This may suggest the growth of a membrane behind the intraocular lens implant (IOL). Sometimes referred to as an “after cataract” or “secondary cataract”, these membranes represent a haziness that has formed along the natural structure that supports the IOL. While these membranes do not hurt the eye or cause permanent damage, if left unchecked they can continue to grow and cause significant vision loss.

Treatment

Thankfully we can now treat these membranes using a laser here in our office. The actual treatment time is often less than a minute, the procedure is pain free, and results are often noticed immediately. It is very rare that the membranes will ever form a second time or that additional treatments will be needed. This procedure, YAG laser capsulotomy, has a proven track record and is covered by insurance. In fact, many patients who state that they had “laser cataract surgery” are often actually referring to this procedure. At your visit, your Ophthalmologist will talk to you about the risks, benefits, and alternatives to this in office procedure. Call or contact us online to find out whether this could be right for you.