Could someone comment on what the YAG treatment of capsular opacification after cataract surgery involves? I know it's....quick, painless...simple..

I'd like to know how much the laser penetrates the corneal surface. Is it a small hole made by the laser beam? The reason I ask is because my cataract surgery was to be painless and quick. It was neither. I know this is because of the lasik surgery and most people do not have problems. The small cut for the iol started the pain back up in force in that eye. When I have the YAG treatment, will it likely do the same? Negotiating some of this stuff is knowing "the truth, or liklihood" in advance. I thought my cataract surgery might be complicated and it was. No surprise. I didn't count on the painful reoccurrence, so that was a surprise.

With that under my belt--I'd think the YAG could be painful in my case? This is all in the same eye. Thanks.

A YAG laser is basically burning the material that builds up on the lens. It is focussed on the capsule and safe on the cornea. It is only on for a short duration and many ophthals now have them in their office attached to a slit lamp and easily usedwhen required.

Phyllis,

As you and many others know, pain is a relative term. What is painless and uninvolved for some can be a nightmare for others. I am sorry to hear that your cataract surgery was painful. I realize that must have been quite scary.

A YAG procedure is generally quite easy and straightforward. The patient's eye is dilated and the laser energy focused just past the back surface of your implant to erase "debris" that forms. In my career, the worst postop complication was transient elevated IOP. I am not personally aware of anyone that had pain as a result of the treatment, but that should not serve as a guarantee that it couldn't happen.

Hope it goes well. Hang in there!!!!

Gregg Russell

not so quick guys. yag may have some postop pain depending on where the vitreous migrates post yag, post yag inflammation, if there is any abrasion at the time of yag if the surgeon uses a magnifying surgical contact, post yag pressure spike.

most patient do perfect but others may have some discomfort at some time post op.

dont forget small risk of retinal tear and lens sublux

Dr. Omar's points are well taken and absolutely on point. I appologize if I made it sound overly easy. After all, they wouldn't call it surgery, would they?

Keep in mind that a significantly hazed capsult can knock down visual performance.