YAG Vitreolysis FAQs
Blue Fin Vision® consultants answer the most common questions about YAG vitreolysis for eye floaters. From suitability to recovery, risks to costs, find reassurance and practical guidance to help you make an informed decision about restoring your clear vision.
What is YAG vitreolysis?
YAG vitreolysis is a non-invasive laser procedure designed to reduce or eliminate bothersome eye floaters. Using nanosecond pulses of Nd:YAG laser light, the treatment precisely targets floaters within the vitreous gel and breaks them into smaller fragments. These fragments are then naturally absorbed by the eye, significantly reducing visual disturbance. The procedure requires no surgical incisions and is performed as an outpatient treatment.
Who is suitable for YAG vitreolysis?
Ideal candidates are typically over 45 years old with large, well-defined floaters that have a soft border. The floaters should be causing significant visual disturbance affecting daily life. Patients with floaters that developed quickly or those with confirmed posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) often respond well to treatment. Your consultant performs a detailed ophthalmic examination to determine whether vitreolysis is appropriate for your specific floater type and location.
How does YAG vitreolysis work?
During YAG vitreolysis, anaesthetic eye drops are applied to ensure comfort, and a specialised contact lens is placed on the eye to stabilise it and focus the laser precisely. The Nd:YAG laser then delivers nanosecond pulses of light directly at the floaters, breaking them apart through a process called photodisruption. The smaller fragments disperse and are safely reabsorbed by the eye. Your eye is examined immediately after treatment to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Is YAG vitreolysis painful?
The procedure is painless for most patients. You may notice bright flashes of light and hear clicking sounds as the laser works on your floaters. Some patients feel mild pressure from the contact lens, but this is generally well tolerated. Anaesthetic eye drops ensure the treatment area remains comfortable throughout.
How long does YAG vitreolysis take?
Each YAG vitreolysis treatment session typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes, with no need for hospitalisation. You can usually return home shortly after treatment. The exact duration depends on the number, size and location of floaters being treated.
How many YAG vitreolysis sessions will I need?
Most patients require 1 to 3 YAG vitreolysis treatment sessions to achieve optimal results. The number of sessions depends on the characteristics of your floaters, including their size, density and location within the vitreous. Your consultant advises on the likely number of sessions during your initial assessment.
What can I expect after YAG vitreolysis treatment?
Recovery after YAG vitreolysis is typically quick, with most patients resuming normal activities within 24 hours. You may experience temporary mild discomfort, blurred vision or see small dark spots as gas bubbles created during treatment disperse. These effects usually resolve within a few hours to days. Detailed aftercare instructions are provided to support your recovery.
Are there any risks or side effects with YAG vitreolysis?
YAG vitreolysis has a good safety profile when performed by experienced specialists. No significant adverse effects such as retinal ruptures, macular oedema or macular holes were observed in clinical trials with 18-month follow-up. Temporary effects may include mild inflammation or increased floater awareness immediately after treatment. Your consultant discusses all potential risks during your consultation.
What are the alternatives to YAG vitreolysis?
The main alternative is vitrectomy surgery, which involves removing the vitreous gel along with the floaters through small incisions. Modern micro-incision vitrectomy using 23 or 25-gauge instruments has an excellent success rate exceeding 93% for symptom resolution. However, vitrectomy carries higher risks including cataract formation and, rarely, retinal detachment. Many patients prefer to try YAG vitreolysis first as a less invasive option. Observation remains appropriate for floaters that are not significantly affecting quality of life.
What if my floaters do not completely disappear after YAG vitreolysis?
Clinical studies show YAG vitreolysis achieves complete or significant improvement in approximately 75% of patients. Some floaters may be reduced rather than eliminated entirely. If 1 or 2 laser sessions are unsuccessful, vitrectomy remains an alternative option. Your consultant discusses realistic expectations during your consultation and monitors your progress at follow-up appointments.
