YAG capsulotomy is commonly performed years after cataract surgery and remains suitable whenever posterior capsule opacification starts to affect vision.
Why it is often done late
Capsule clouding can appear long after an initially good result.
- Gradual return of misty, glare‑prone vision resembling the original cataract
- Posterior capsule thickening confirmed during examination
- Stable lens implant and eye health aside from the cloudy capsule
- Clear expectation that opening the capsule will improve clarity
- No upper time limit, provided the eye is otherwise suitable
Checks before proceeding
Other causes of visual change should be excluded.
- Assessment for macular disease, glaucoma, or refractive change
- Review of retinal status, especially in high‑risk eyes
- Discussion of small risks such as pressure rise or retinal detachment
- Confirmation that symptoms are bothersome enough to justify treatment
- Plan for follow‑up after the laser procedure
