YAG laser capsulotomy
What is YAG laser capsulotomy?
YAG laser capsulotomy is the treatment for removing the opacified posterior part of the capsule of the capsular bag.
Posterior capsular opacification occurs in 10% of the patients following cataract surgery.
Is the capsule required to hold the lens implant?
The cataract is removed from the capsular bag and an intraocular lens is implanted in the capsular bag which fibroses around the lens implant securing it in place. Therefore, removing the posterior capsule does not affect the position of the lens implant in the eye.
How is the treatment done?
You will be given drops to dilate the pupil and which take 20-30 minutes to work. YAG laser treatment for eyes is performed by sitting at in front of a laser machine and the doctor performing the procedure with explain the procedure and answer all questions that you may have related to the procedure.
 A small contact lens is placed on the eye and it takes 15-20 minutes to complete the treatment.
What are the risks?
YAG laser treatment for eyes is a commonly performed procedure following cataract surgery and is relatively straightforward. A transient rise or spike in eye pressure or eye inflammation can occur and which usually settles within 24-48 hours.
However, eyedrops may be given after the procedure to help prevent this. Rarely, vitreous or retinal detachment can occur albeit being relatively uncommon.
Is it painful?
Anaesthetic eyedrops are instilled to numb the eye prior to placing the contact lens and carrying out the laser treatment.
What can I expect following treatment?
Your vision may be blurred for a few hours following the procedure but will revert to normal afterwards. You may experience a few floaters for a few days which usually disappear over time. You may return to normal activity immediately after the procedure although the dilating drops take 4-6 hours to wear off.
How long does the treatment last?
A YAG laser capsulotomy is permanent as the capsule cannot grow back. It is a definitive treatment for posterior capsular opacification and the effect lasts a lifetime.
Our YAG Laser Treatments for Eyes and Price List
| New patient consultation | £320 |
| Follow up appointment | £280 |
YAG LASER CAPSULOTOMY
| One eye | £550 |
| Both eyes | £750 |
If you would like to discuss Ophthalmology treatments, please get in touch with a member of our team
