Laser treatment for after-cataracts

WHAT IS AN AFTER-CATARACT?

When your own lens is removed (cataract surgery), the lens capsule for the artificial lens remains in place so that the lens has a hold on the eye until it grows in firmly. Later, due to the shrinkage of this capsule, a cloudiness, called after-cataract, forms on the back surface of the capsule, which worsens the visual impression.

With the YAG laser, an opening of this clouded posterior capsule can be created without opening the eyeball. As a result, the central optic is once again free, and vision is as clear as after the operation.

HOW DOES THE TREATMENT PROCEED?

The patient sits in front of a laser slit lamp, the cornea is anaesthetized with eye drops, a small contact lens is placed on the eye and the laser beam is focused on the level of the after-cataract by means of a target beam. Then several pulses are sent, creating a photo disruption (a mini explosion) that opens the posterior capsule at the circumscribed location. This is completely painless and takes only a few minutes.

WHAT I NEED TO CONSIDER AFTER THE TREATMENT

Immediately after the treatment the eye may be slightly irritated. In very rare cases a swelling of the retinal center may occur. In order to minimize this risk, you will receive eye drops from us, which you should use daily for a few days. A checkup the following day at your ophthalmologist may be indicated.

Due to the dilation of the pupils, you should not drive yourself immediately after the treatment. However, there are no restrictions with regard to reading, watching television or sports activities.