Post-cataract & YAG capsulotomy | The simple solution for renewed visual deterioration
What is an after cataract?
After cataract is a common phenomenon that can occur after a successful cataract operation. Imagine this: Your artificial lens has been inserted perfectly, but over time the natural lens bag (capsular bag) behind the artificial lens becomes cloudy – similar to when a clear window pane gradually becomes milky.
This clouding is called secondary cataract and is not a recurrence of the disease, but a natural reaction of the eye. In around 20-30% of all patients, a secondary cataract occurs within 2-5 years after cataract surgery.
How do I notice an after cataract?
The symptoms of a secondary cataract are similar to those of the original cataract, but usually develop more quickly:
- Gradual deterioration in visual acuity
- Increasingly blurred or obscured vision
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- Reduced contrast perception
- The feeling of seeing through a light veil
Important to know: A secondary cataract is not a complication or a failure of the original surgery. It is a normal healing reaction that can be easily treated.
The YAG capsulotomy: fast, painless, effective
The treatment of a post-cataract is carried out with the so-called YAG capsulotomy – a modern, precise laser procedure. This treatment is:
- Fast: The actual procedure only takes about 2-3 minutes
- Painless: no anesthesia is necessary
- Outpatient: You can go home immediately after treatment
- Highly effective: the improvement in vision usually occurs immediately or within a few hours
How does the YAG capsulotomy work?
The YAG capsulotomy is an elegant procedure that does not require a surgical incision. The procedure is very simple:
- Preparation: Your pupil is dilated with eye drops
- Positioning: You take a seat at a special laser slit lamp
- Contact lens: A special contact lens is placed painlessly on your eye
- Laser treatment: The doctor uses targeted laser pulses to create a small opening in the cloudy posterior capsule
- Finished: The treatment is completed after a few minutes
Imagine how a precise beam of light creates a small, clear “view” in the milky capsular bag – immediately more light falls on your retina again and your vision improves.
Immediate results
The great advantage of YAG capsulotomy is that the improvement in vision is usually immediate. The laser beam creates a clear opening in the cloudy capsule so that the light can once again fall unhindered onto the retina.
Most patients report:
- Immediate improvement in visual acuity
- Brighter, clearer visual experience
- Better color perception
- Reduced glare sensitivity
After the treatment
The first hours
After the YAG capsulotomy, you can return to your normal activities immediately. Please note, however:
- Slight veil symptoms or “floating spots” may occur for a few hours
- Your pupil remains dilated for several hours, which can lead to increased sensitivity to light
- You should not drive again until the next day when your pupil has normalized
Aftercare
Aftercare is minimal:
- A short check-up the next day or within the first week
- Eye drops to reduce pressure for 3-5 days
- No further restrictions or special precautions
Frequently asked questions about YAG capsulotomy
Is the treatment painful?
No, the YAG capsulotomy is painless. At most, you will feel a slight sensation of pressure through the contact glass.
How long does the procedure take?
The actual laser treatment only takes about 2-3 minutes. You should allow around 30-45 minutes for preparation and debriefing.
Can a secondary cataract come back?
No, a secondary cataract cannot reappear after a successful YAG capsulotomy. The opening created remains permanently.
Are there any risks associated with the treatment?
YAG capsulotomy is a very safe procedure. In rare cases, there may be a temporary increase in eye pressure or flying gnats in the field of vision. Serious complications are extremely rare.
Can every secondary cataract be treated?
Yes, practically every secondary cataract can be successfully treated with YAG capsulotomy. The ideal time for treatment is when the visual impairment begins to interfere with your everyday life.
Do I have to go to hospital for treatment?
No, the YAG capsulotomy is an outpatient procedure that is usually performed in the practice. You can go home immediately afterwards.
Costs and insurance
YAG capsulotomy is a medically necessary treatment and is therefore covered by statutory health insurance. This includes:
- The preliminary investigation
- The actual laser treatment
- Necessary follow-up checks
- Prescribed medication
Privately insured persons are billed according to the agreements with their insurance company.
When should you act?
If you notice a gradual deterioration in your vision after your cataract surgery, make an appointment for an examination. A secondary cataract typically develops:
- Within 2-5 years after the original operation
- With slowly increasing visual deterioration
- Without pain or redness
The earlier a secondary cataract is detected, the faster we can help you regain clear vision. YAG capsulotomy is a proven, low-risk solution that helps you regain good vision within minutes.
Your path to clear vision
The first step is a thorough examination to determine whether a secondary cataract is actually present. At our center in Vienna we offer:
- Comprehensive diagnostics with state-of-the-art technology
- Detailed advice on your individual treatment options
- Near-term YAG capsulotomy for confirmed secondary cataracts
- Professional aftercare for optimal results
Why do patients choose our center in Vienna?
- Many years of experience with thousands of successful YAG capsulotomies
- State-of-the-art laser technology for precise, gentle treatment
- Comprehensive care before, during and after the procedure
- Central location with good accessibility
Arrange your examination appointment now: Contact information
This information is updated regularly to provide you with the latest developments in eye surgery. Last update: April 2025
