A posterior capsulotomy is a laser procedure that may be required following cataract surgery. If your eyesight becomes cloudy again, it will assist you in seeing clearly.
Your ophthalmologist removes the clouded lens of your eye during cataract surgery. They replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) that is transparent. The IOL is secured in the normal lens capsule of the eye. This capsule can become clouded or wrinkled over weeks, months, or years, causing impaired vision. A posterior capsule opacification is what is called (PCO). Another name for it is “secondary cataract” or “scar tissue.”” A laser is used to create an opening in the clouded capsule during posterior capsulotomy, this enables clear vision by allowing light to pass through again.
What Happens When a Posterior Capsulotomy Is Performed?
The procedure is performed in the office of your ophthalmologist. It takes about 5 minutes to complete. Here’s what’s going to happen:
● To numb your eye, eye drops will be utilized. Other eye drops to dilate your pupil may be prescribed.
● Your ophthalmologist will use a special laser to create a small opening in the back of the lens capsule.
● Following the operation, you should be able to resume your routine activities, including driving. If there are any things you should not do shortly after surgery, your ophthalmologist will advise you.
● After the surgery, you may need to use eye drops for a week. If this is essential, your ophthalmologist will inform you.
● Your vision should improve in around 24 hours if you don’t have any additional eye problems.
What Are the Risks of a Posterior Capsulotomy?
There are risks and hazards with posterior capsulotomy, as with any surgery. Here are a few examples:
● It is possible that you have a detached retina (where the tissue lifts from the back of your eye). A gray curtain may appear to be moving over your field of vision. There could also be a lot of floaters. If this happens to your vision, you should contact your ophthalmologist right away.
● It is possible that you may have increased eye pressure.
● It is possible that the IOL will pass through the posterior capsule aperture.
● It is possible that you will need steroid eye drops if your eye is swollen.
