YAG capsulotomy is suitable for people who developed cloudy posterior capsule opacification after cataract surgery and whose vision is affected as a result.
Typical candidates
Symptoms often mimic the original cataract.
- Gradually mistier or hazier vision months or years after surgery
- Increased glare, halos, or difficulty reading small print
- Examination confirming posterior capsule opacification behind a stable lens implant
- Clear potential for improvement once the cloudy membrane is opened
- Ability to sit still for a short outpatient laser procedure
When YAG may be deferred or avoided
Lasering too early or in the wrong situation is unhelpful.
- Very mild capsule changes that do not yet affect daily activities
- Blur mainly due to other causes, such as macular disease or uncorrected prescription
- Patients with very high risk of retinal detachment needing extra caution
- Uncertainty about implant position, where capsulotomy could complicate future surgery
- Lack of informed consent or understanding of risks, such as transient pressure rise
