YAG Laser Capsulotomy in Delray Beach, FL

At Rothchild Eye Institute, our board-certified eye surgeons use YAG laser technology to perform capsulotomy procedures following cataract removal. While cataract surgery involves removing a clouded lens and placing an artificial intraocular lens within the eye, it is common for the structure (or capsule) housing this lens to develop cloudiness over time, which can interfere with a patient's vision. Using a YAG laser, our experts can perform a noninvasive procedure known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO) to break up this cloudiness and allow for clearer eyesight. If you are noticing blurry vision, double vision, a glare, or other vision concerns weeks, months, or even years after traditional or laser cataract surgery, please schedule a visit at Rothchild Eye Institute in Delray Beach, FL to learn about your candidacy for YAG laser eye surgery.

Many patients find that the primary benefit of posterior capsule opacification is that it is a noninvasive procedure. PCO is performed to break up cloudiness in the lens that has accumulated over time after cataract surgery. The YAG laser procedure can also be used for treating floaters, as well as cloudiness. The majority of our patients find that their blurry or double vision is improved shortly after this procedure. If you are seeking a YAG laser treatment at an eye institute near you, contact our office to be connected with a member of our staff.

If you've had cataract removal surgery and you're now experiencing blurry vision, you may be a candidate for a capsulotomy using the YAG laser at Rothchild Eye Institute. While it's common to think your cataracts have come back if you experience this blurriness after cataract surgery, it's actually not the case. If your cataract surgery went smoothly, with no complications, you will likely be a good candidate for a YAG laser capsulotomy. Some conditions that may affect your candidacy include:

• Retinal detachment or tears in your past
• Macular edema
• Chronic uveitis or active uveitis
• A history of having high intraocular pressure

YAG laser capsulotomies are quick, outpatient procedures and are generally comfortable for most patients. To perform the procedure, our ophthalmologists will position you in front of our YAG laser, which will project a focused beam of light toward the posterior capsule within your eye. Quick pulses of light energy will be delivered to gently break up the clouded area of the capsule while keeping the surrounding structures of your eye and your new lens intact. It is normal to have blurry vision for a few hours following a YAG capsulotomy procedure. Your vision should begin to improve within a few hours of your treatment. Our Delray Beach eye doctors will continue to monitor your ocular health and your prescription during routine eye exam visits.

Posterior capsulotomy recovery is a fairly quick process. Following a laser capsulotomy, patients are typically able to return to their regular routine within 1 – 2 days. It is normal to experience dark, transparent spots in your vision, known as "floaters", for a few weeks following the procedure. As your eyes continue to heal, the floaters will begin to dissipate. Patients typically begin to notice improvement in their vision in the days following their procedure, with the most notable results becoming apparent two days into recovery.

Can I drive after a YAG laser capsulotomy?
Your eyes will be dilated for your capsulotomy procedure, which may cause you to experience blurred vision. Therefore, you should plan to have a friend or family member drive you home following your appointment. In many cases, patients are able to drive within a day after having a YAG laser capsulotomy.

How long does it take to recover from a YAG laser capsulotomy?
You should be able to resume your normal routine the day after your capsulotomy procedure at Rothchild Eye Institute. However, it may take up to 48 hours before you begin to see more clearly. It can be common to experience “floaters” (dark or clear spots in your field of vision) over the first several weeks, but this should decrease over time.

Does insurance cover YAG laser capsulotomy procedures?
The cost of a YAG laser capsulotomy may be covered in part under insurance plans. Before your procedure, our team can help you understand your coverage and estimate any personal costs for your care. Flexible financing options may also be available.

How soon will I notice an improvement in my vision after a YAG laser capsulotomy?
Many patients notice an improvement in their vision within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. However, it may take a few days for your vision to fully stabilize. Some patients may experience temporary floaters or mild blurriness immediately after the procedure, but these symptoms should diminish over time.

Are there any restrictions on activities after a YAG laser capsulotomy?
Most patients can resume their normal activities the day after the procedure. However, to ensure proper healing and prevent complications, it's advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and rubbing your eyes for at least a few days following the capsulotomy.

How often do patients need a YAG laser capsulotomy after cataract surgery?
A YAG laser capsulotomy is usually a one-time procedure. It addresses the cloudiness that can develop after cataract surgery, known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO). Once treated, the cloudiness is unlikely to return, meaning further capsulotomies are rarely necessary.

Rothchild Eye Institute is proud to offer state-of-the-art ophthalmology solutions to improve vision for cataract patients. Our ophthalmologists routinely perform YAG laser capsulotomies to treat cloudy vision that develops following cataract surgery. To schedule a visit with one of our ophthalmologists, learn about the insurances we accept, or inquire about flexible financing options, please contact our Delray Beach, FL eye center today.