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Below are links to pages that speak to diseases, conditions, treatments and procedures that we commonly see in the field of retina specialty. While many of the diseases we treat or services we provide are not listed, we are continually adding to this section to provide further educational materials to improve your health care experience.

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YAG Capsulotomy: Your Experience

YAG capsulotomy is done in your eye doctor’s office or at an outpatient surgery center. The treatment is usually quick and painless. You can most often return to your normal routine right away. There are no needles, no stitches, and no risk of infection. Your vision will most likely be fully restored soon after treatment.

Possible Risks

Laser treatment is safe. But know that there are some risks:

  • Eye pressure may rise, usually only for a short time.

  • The laser can nick the IOL. But this almost never affects vision.

  • Rarely, the retina may become detached.

Before Capsulotomy

Ask your eye doctor whether you need to have someone drive you to and from your treatment. Most people see sharply again right away and go home shortly after treatment.

During Capsulotomy

First, your eye is numbed and your pupil is dilated with drops. Then, you rest your chin on a stand in front of the laser machine. You may see flashes of light and hear a faint clicking sound as the laser enters your eye. But you should not feel any pain. You can help by staying relaxed and still.

After Capsulotomy

You should begin to see better within a few hours. Your eye doctor may check your eye pressure later that day or the next. He or she may also give you eyedrops or an ointment. Once the posterior capsule (area of the eye that holds the lens in place) has been opened, it won’t cause your vision to cloud again.

Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:

  • Increased pain

  • Sudden decrease in vision

  • Increased flashing lights or floaters

  • A shadow covering your vision