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YAG Laser Capsulotomy for Post-Cataract Vision Clouding

After successful cataract surgery, some patients may experience a gradual return of blurry or cloudy vision. This common condition is called posterior capsule opacification (PCO)—sometimes referred to as a “secondary cataract.” While it’s not a new cataract, it can affect vision similarly. Fortunately, it can be easily treated with a quick and painless laser procedure called YAG Laser Capsulotomy.

What Is Posterior Capsule Opacification?

During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The lens is placed inside a thin, clear membrane (the capsule), which is left intact to support the new lens. Over time, this capsule can become cloudy or wrinkled, scattering light and causing blurred vision.

How YAG Capsulotomy Works:

A specialized laser (YAG laser) is used to create a small, precise opening in the cloudy capsule behind the IOL.
This opening allows light to pass through clearly again, restoring sharp vision.
The procedure is performed in the clinic, typically takes just a few minutes, and does not require incisions or anesthesia beyond numbing eye drops.

Benefits of YAG Laser Capsulotomy:

Quick, non-invasive outpatient procedure
Immediate improvement in vision for most patients
No stitches or recovery downtime – most return to normal activities the same day
Painless and low-risk with minimal side effects
Can be performed months or years after cataract surgery if needed

What to Expect:

Numbing drops are applied to the eye
The laser procedure takes only a few minutes and is painless
Some patients may experience floaters or mild blurry vision for a few hours afterward
A follow-up exam is typically scheduled to monitor eye pressure and healing
If you’ve had cataract surgery and are noticing your vision becoming cloudy again, YAG Laser Capsulotomy may be a simple solution to restore your sight.

Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) for Narrow Angles and Angle-Closure Glaucoma

Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) is a quick and effective laser procedure used to treat or prevent angle-closure glaucoma, a condition where the drainage angle of the eye becomes too narrow, increasing the risk of a sudden rise in eye pressure and potential vision loss.

In a healthy eye, fluid flows freely through the drainage angle between the iris and the cornea. In some individuals, this angle is too narrow, either due to anatomy or aging, leading to a blockage of fluid drainage. This can result in a dangerous buildup of pressure inside the eye. LPI creates a small opening in the outer edge of the iris to restore normal fluid flow and prevent pressure spikes.

Who May Need LPI?

Patients diagnosed with narrow angles or angle-closure suspect
Those with a family history or risk factors for angle-closure glaucoma
Patients who have already had one eye affected by acute angle-closure attack

How LPI Works:

A specialized laser is used to create a tiny hole in the iris, allowing fluid to bypass the narrow angle and flow through a new channel.

The procedure helps relieve pressure and prevent angle closure before it becomes a serious issue.

Typically performed in one or both eyes as a preventive measure.

Benefits of LPI:

Quick and painless outpatient procedure (usually takes just a few minutes)
No incisions or stitches – only a laser and numbing eye drops are used

Helps protect against acute angle-closure glaucoma, which is a medical emergency
Minimal downtime, with most patients resuming normal activities shortly after
Often avoids the need for long-term medications or surgery if done early

What to Expect:

Before the procedure, eye pressure is measured and drops are used to constrict the pupil

The laser is applied with a special lens placed on the eye; you may feel a mild pinch or flash of light

Vision may be slightly blurry or light-sensitive for a few hours afterward

Follow-up is important to monitor eye pressure and ensure the opening remains effective

If you've been told you have narrow angles or are at risk for angle-closure glaucoma, LPI is a proven and preventive way to protect your vision.

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) for Glaucoma

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a safe, effective, and non-invasive laser treatment used to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG). It’s often used as a first-line therapy or as an alternative to glaucoma eye drops, especially for those seeking to reduce their reliance on daily medications.

Glaucoma occurs when the eye’s natural drainage system becomes less effective, causing pressure to build up and potentially damage the optic nerve. SLT targets this drainage system to help fluid flow more freely, lowering IOP and protecting vision.

How SLT Works:

SLT uses short, low-energy laser pulses to stimulate the eye’s natural drainage system (trabecular meshwork).
The laser triggers a healing response without damaging surrounding tissue.
Over time, this improves fluid outflow and reduces intraocular pressure.
The procedure typically takes 5–10 minutes and is done in the clinic.

Benefits of SLT:

Non-invasive and performed without incisions
No need for anesthesia – only numbing eye drops are used
Can significantly lower eye pressure, similar to the effect of daily eye drops
Minimal recovery time – patients return to normal activities shortly after
May reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma medications
Repeatable if needed after several years

What to Expect:

Quick, outpatient procedure with little to no discomfort
Some patients experience mild irritation, which resolves quickly.

A full pressure-lowering effect is seen over several weeks
Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor your eye pressure.
SLT is a great option for patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma who want to avoid or reduce dependence on eye drops, or for those whose medications are no longer controlling pressure effectively.