Ο Secondary cataracts is a common and expected condition that can occur after a successful cataract surgery and cause re-blurring of vision. It is not a “reappearance” of cataract, but a clouding of the periwinkle (the thin transparent sac that holds the intraocular lens) which can occur months or even years after surgery. Fortunately, it is usually easily and quickly treated with the procedure YAG Laser capsulotomy, with the aim of restoring clear vision and improving daily functioning (e.g. reading, driving, especially at night).
What is the "Secondary Waterfall"?;
The natural lens of the eye is installed in an elastic envelope, which holds it in place. When cataract surgery is performed, the surgeon carefully opens the front part of the periocular lens to remove the lens.
After the total removal of the natural lens, the intraocular corrective lens is placed in the capsular bag. The envelope holds the corrective lens and is used as a protective barrier for the back of the eye. After cataract surgery, the envelope may produce cloudy cells, which usually cause blurred vision. Some patients may also experience severe problems when driving at night. This common condition, known as secondary cataracts, occurs in about 40% of patients who have had cataract surgery. Secondary cataracts can occur months or years after surgery.
How is the YAGLaser Capsulotomy done?;
Secondary cataracts can be treated simply by using the YAGLaser Capsulotomy. In the eye, mydriasis (pupil dilation) drops are instilled into the eye. The laser is used to create an opening in the center of the periorbital cloud. In many patients, the improvement in their vision is immediate, while in others, vision improves gradually over a few days. YAGLaser Capsulotomy is a procedure that takes a few minutes to perform. After the procedure, your intraocular pressure will be measured and your vision will be evaluated.
You will be able to return to your normal activities for the rest of the day.
What to expect during your visit
Preparation: The pupil of the eye is dilated with special eye drops and local anaesthesia (drops) is applied.
The Intervention: Sit in front of the Laser machine (similar to the one in the examination). The ophthalmologist accurately directs the laser at the blurred membrane.
After the Laser: You will remain in the centre for a short time for a standard intraocular pressure measurement.
Recovery: You will be given anti-inflammatory drops for a few days. The improvement in vision is noticeable almost immediately.
Why choose it:
No scalpel: No surgical incision or stitches are required.
Painless Process: Only anaesthetic drops are used.
Speed: The procedure takes less than 5-10 minutes.
Immediate Return: You can return to your activities on the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is YAG Laser Capsulotomy?;
It is a short and painless procedure performed in the office to treat the clouding that sometimes occurs after cataract surgery (often called “secondary cataract”). The laser creates an opening in the cloudy membrane behind the artificial lens, restoring clear vision.
Is "secondary cataract" a real cataract?;
No. The waterfall cannot return once it has been removed. It is a normal reaction of the body where the capsule (the membrane) that holds the lens becomes cloudy over time.
Does the operation hurt?;
Not at all. Before we begin, we place anaesthetic drops in your eyes. All you may feel is a slight pressure sensation or hear a soft “clicking” sound from the laser machine.
How long does it last?;
The pure Laser procedure usually takes less than 5 minutes. Together with the preparation (drops for pupil dilation) and the post-operative check-up, you will need to stay in our centre for about 30-45 minutes.
Will I need anesthesia or hospitalization?;
No. The procedure is outpatient and is performed in the special slit lamp of the clinic. No intoxication or general anesthesia is required.
When will my vision improve?;
In most cases, vision improves immediately. However, because your daughter will be dilated by the drops, you may experience a temporary blurring for 2-4 hours. By the next day, vision is usually clear as a bell.
Can I drive right after?;
We recommend having an escort with you or using a taxi, as the dilation of the pupil causes photosensitivity and difficulty focusing for a few hours.
Will I see "flies" after the Laser?;
It is very common to see some small “floaters” in the first 1-2 days. These are small pieces of the removed membrane that are gradually absorbed or recede from your field of vision.
How safe is the method?;
YAG Laser Capsulotomy is one of the safest medical procedures worldwide. Complications are extremely rare and the doctor will discuss your medical history with you before the procedure.
Will I have to do it again in the future?;
No. A capsulotomy is a permanent solution. Once the central opening in the membrane is created, it does not close again, so the procedure is done only once in each eye.