YAG Capsulotomy: Your Experience

YAG capsulotomy is done in your eye healthcare provider’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 or stitches. There is no risk of infection. Your vision will most likely be fully restored soon after treatment.

Before capsulotomy

Ask your eye healthcare provider if you need to have someone drive you to and from your treatment. Most people see clearly again right away and go home shortly after treatment.

During capsulotomy

First, your eye is numbed and your pupil is widened (dilated) with eye 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 in a few hours. Your eye healthcare provider may check your eye pressure later that day or the next. He or she may also give you eye drops or an ointment. Once the posterior capsule (the part of the eye that holds the lens in place) has been opened, it won’t make your vision cloudy again.