Patient Procedures at Empire Eye Physicians

YAG Laser

Posterior Capsulotomy (YAG Laser) is a surgical laser procedure that may be necessary after cataract surgery.

During cataract surgery, part of the anterior (front) capsule that holds the lens is removed. The posterior (clear back) capsule remains intact. If that capsule stays clear, the patient will have good vision.

Sometimes the posterior capsule needs attention. In 30 to 50 percent of people, the posterior capsule loses its clarity. When this happens, an opening can be made in the capsule with a YAG laser to restore normal vision.

Before the laser procedure, your doctor does a thorough eye examination to make sure there is no other reason for vision loss. YAG Laser is painless and only takes five minutes. Eye pressure may be taken after the operation to make sure it is not elevated.

Procedure Benefits

  • Reduces glare
  • Improves vision after cataract surgery
  • Effective, safe, and simple laser procedure
  • Only takes a few minutes

What To Expect

Typically, it will take one or two days to see as clearly as possible. Patients should also not experience any pain following the procedure. Patients should be able to return to their normal routines the day after the procedure. It is common to see spots or floaters for a few weeks after the procedure.