POSTERIOR CAPSULOTOMY
A posterior capsulotomy is a laser procedure that may be needed after cataract surgery if your vision becomes cloudy again. The treatment is designed to restore clear vision by creating an opening in the part of the eye that has become cloudy.
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During cataract surgery, the eye’s cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL is positioned inside the eye’s natural lens capsule, which helps keep the lens securely in place.​
Over time, the lens capsule can become cloudy or develop wrinkles, sometimes weeks, months, or even years after cataract surgery. This can cause blurred or hazy vision. A posterior capsulotomy uses a laser to create a small opening in the cloudy capsule, allowing light to pass through properly and improving vision. In most cases, this procedure only needs to be performed once for each eye.
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WHAT HAPPENS DURING POSTERIOR CAPSULOTOMY?
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The procedure is typically performed in your ophthalmologist’s office or at an outpatient surgical center. It is a quick treatment that usually takes about five minutes. The following steps are generally involved:
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Your eye may be numbed with anesthetic eye drops. Additional drops may also be used to enlarge (dilate) your pupil.
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Your ophthalmologist will use a specialized laser to create a small opening in the back portion of the lens capsule.
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Once your vision stabilizes after the procedure, most normal daily activities can be resumed. However, your doctor may recommend having someone drive you home.
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Your ophthalmologist will explain if there are any temporary activity restrictions following the procedure.
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You may be prescribed medicated eye drops to use for several days afterward if needed.
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If no other eye conditions are affecting your vision, you should notice an improvement in sight within approximately 48 hours.
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WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF POSTERIOR CAPSULOTOMY?
Like any surgical procedure, posterior capsulotomy carries some risks and potential complications. These may include:
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Retinal detachment, which occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye. Symptoms may include what appears to be a gray or dark curtain moving across your vision, along with flashes of light or an increase in floaters. Contact your ophthalmologist immediately if you experience these symptoms.
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An increase in pressure inside the eye.
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Movement or displacement of the intraocular lens (IOL) through the opening created in the capsule.
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Swelling within the eye, which may require treatment with steroid eye drops.
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Your ophthalmologist will discuss the possible benefits and risks of posterior capsulotomy and answer any questions before the procedure.
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