Laser eye surgery can be used after cataract surgery to refine the outcome if the intraocular lens power is slightly off or astigmatism remains.
When post‑cataract laser can help
Once the eye has healed and measurements are stable, small residual prescriptions can often be corrected.
- Clear cornea and stable intraocular lens position
- No active macular disease or significant posterior capsule clouding
- Stable refraction for several months after surgery
- Residual myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism that affects daily tasks
- Desire to reduce dependence on glasses after an otherwise successful cataract operation
When an alternative is better
In some cases, addressing the lens or capsule directly is more appropriate than reshaping the cornea.
- Significant posterior capsule opacification best treated with YAG capsulotomy
- Large lens power error that might be corrected with lens exchange
- Corneal irregularity, dryness, or low endothelial reserve
- Limited potential from retinal or optic nerve disease
- Decision to stay in glasses if risks of additional surgery outweigh benefits
