Duller colours after cataract surgery can result from posterior capsule opacification, and YAG capsulotomy may be suitable if this is the main cause.
How PCO affects colour
Haze reduces brightness and contrast.
- Whites appearing grey or slightly yellowed compared with earlier
- Blues and greens looking less vivid
- Difficulty distinguishing subtle shades in clothing or artwork
- Findings of capsule thickening that scatter incoming light
- Little change in lens implant type or other eye structures
When YAG is likely to help
Colour often brightens once the capsule is opened.
- Moderate or dense PCO clearly degrading image quality
- No major new macular disease or optic‑nerve damage
- Desire to restore colour and contrast for hobbies or work
- Willingness to accept small risks in exchange for potential improvement
- Follow‑up to check that colour and brightness have improved as expected
