Restore clear vision with YAG laser treatment, a quick and painless procedure to eliminate post-cataract clouding.
Restoring clarity after cataract surgery
At SEON Vision, we understand how frustrating cloudy or blurry vision can be, especially after cataract surgery. A common cause of this is posterior capsular opacification (PCO), a treatable condition that can develop months or even years after surgery. If your vision has become hazy or less sharp, YAG Laser Capsulotomy may be the solution to restore clarity quickly and effectively.
What is YAG Laser Capsulotomy?
YAG Laser Capsulotomy is a quick, non-invasive procedure designed to restore clear vision in patients experiencing PCO, a common condition that can occur after cataract surgery.
During the cataract surgery, the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). In some cases, the thin membrane (capsule) that holds the new lens in place becomes cloudy over time, causing blurred vision.
Using a highly precise Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (YAG) laser, the procedure creates a small opening in the cloudy capsule, allowing light to pass through freely and restoring sharp, clear vision. The treatment is fast, effective, and requires no incisions or stitches. Most patients experience an immediate improvement in their vision after the procedure.
How can YAG surgery help me?
Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO) is a common but treatable condition that can develop months or even years after surgery. Often referred to as secondary cataracts, PCO occurs when the thin membrane behind the artificial lens becomes cloudy, leading to vision impairment.
Symptoms of PCO may include:
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Difficulty seeing in low light or at night
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- Reduced contrast and sharpness
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, YAG Laser Capsulotomy offers a quick, painless solution to restore clarity. The procedure takes just minutes and can significantly improve vision, helping you regain confidence in daily activities.
Can we help?
If you would like to know more about us, or want to make an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Tel: 0203 411 1820
Meet our Cataract specialists
What to expect
Pre-surgery
Before your surgery, our experienced ophthalmologists will examine your eyes to make sure you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure. We will discuss any potential risks and make sure you feel comfortable and well-informed.
Surgery day
The procedure is performed in our clinic and typically takes just 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll be seated comfortably and given anaesthetic eye drops. A special lens is placed on the eye to help guide the laser, which then creates a small opening in the cloudy capsule. This allows light to pass through freely, restoring clear vision.
Post-surgery
One of the main advantages of YAG laser surgery is the quick recovery time. Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure. You may experience some mild irritation of temporary blindness, but these symptoms usually resolve within a few hours. A follow up appointment will be scheduled to ensure your eye is healing well and to check your vision has improved.
Consultation process
Request a consultation
Take the first step to restoring your vision. Contact us today to request a consultation.
We’ll be in touch
Our experienced, compassionate team will be in touch to discuss your vision needs and schedule your in-person consultation.
Visit our clinic
Visit our comfortable, welcoming, state-of-the-art clinic and meet our expert team.
YAG Laser Capsulotomy Frequently Asked Questions
What is YAG Laser Capsulotomy and why might I need it after cataract surgery?
YAG Laser Capsulotomy is a quick, painless outpatient procedure to treat posterior capsular opacification (PCO) — sometimes called a ‘secondary cataract’. After cataract surgery, the thin membrane (capsule) that holds the artificial lens in place can become cloudy over time, causing vision to become hazy again. A YAG laser creates a small, precise opening in the cloudy capsule, immediately restoring clear vision. This is not a recurrence of the original cataract.
How common is posterior capsular opacification after cataract surgery?
PCO is one of the most common complications following cataract surgery, affecting up to 20–30% of patients within five years of their procedure. It can develop months or years after surgery. It is entirely treatable with YAG laser and should not be a cause for concern, though you should have it assessed promptly if your vision has become hazy after previous cataract surgery.
How long does YAG laser treatment take?
The procedure itself takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes and is performed in our Kingston clinic as an outpatient appointment. No incisions or stitches are required. Most patients notice an improvement in vision within a few hours of treatment. You will need to arrange transport home as your vision may be blurred temporarily immediately after the procedure.
Is YAG Laser Capsulotomy painful?
No. The procedure is performed using anaesthetic eye drops, so you will not feel pain during treatment. You may see flashes of light as the laser is applied, and there may be a sensation of pressure, but this is brief and well-tolerated by the vast majority of patients.
Does YAG treatment need to be repeated?
YAG Laser Capsulotomy is a permanent, one-time treatment. Once the opening is created in the cloudy capsule, the cloudiness cannot return in the same location. There is therefore no need for repeat treatment.
I had cataract surgery elsewhere — can I have YAG laser treatment at SEON Vision in Kingston?
Yes, absolutely. We frequently treat patients at our Kingston upon Thames clinic who had their original cataract surgery performed at other hospitals or clinics, both NHS and private. You will simply need to bring any records or discharge letters from your original surgery, including the type of intraocular lens implanted if known, to assist your assessment.
