Posterior Capsulotomy

Posterior capsulotomy is laser surgery sometimes needed after cataract surgery. This surgery helps a person see clearly should their vision become cloudy again.

During cataract surgery, the eye’s cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL is held in place in the eye’s natural lens capsule. At times this capsule can become cloudy or wrinkled, causing blurry vision. Using posterior capsulotomy, a laser is used to make an opening in the cloudy capsule. This allows light to pass through again for clear vision.

Risk Factors

  • A detached retina (where the tissue lifts from the back of your eye) might occur. The patient might see what looks like a gray curtain moving across a field of vision. Also, floaters might appear. Should this occur immediately seek a visit with your ophthalmologist.
  • The pressure in your eye may increase.
  • The IOL might move through the posterior capsule opening.
  • Swelling in the eye may develop which would require steroid eye drops.

It is important to have your eyes or vision checked regularly if you have cataracts.

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