Laser removal of secondary cataracts

Why does the disease develop repeatedly

Secondary, or postoperative, cataract is a disease in which vision becomes blurred again after the first operation. This is due to a violation of the transparency of the preserved posterior lens capsule.

The cause of recurrent cataract development is the regenerative activity of lens epithelial cells. This is a natural process that is associated with the structural features of the lens and its reparative abilities. The younger the patient, the faster the clouding of the lens capsule will develop. In some cases, a secondary disease may develop due to an inflammatory process or other complications after treatment. The only way to combat this pathology is through repeated surgical intervention.

Indications and contraindications for surgery

Laser treatment is the optimal solution for patients who experience visual impairment after lens removal. The following symptoms are indications for this procedure:

• decreased visual acuity;

• distortion, blurring, and double images;

• night vision disorders.

Like any medical procedure, laser removal has a number of contraindications. In particular, the procedure is contraindicated at the time of serious inflammation of the eye. The decision on the need for a repeat operation is made by the ophthalmologist together with the patient after a full examination and discussion of the price.

How laser removal of secondary cataracts is performed

Laser dissection is performed on an outpatient basis. This is a quick and painless procedure that does not require hospitalization. Specific training is not necessary, but the patient must undergo a full ophthalmological examination.

On the day of surgery, the patient is given drops that dilate the pupil. Then local anesthesia is used. The longest part of the procedure is waiting for the medicine to take effect. The rest of the manipulations take just a couple of minutes.

The patient sits down in front of the laser installation. The posterior capsule of the lens is dissected or excised, which allows you to restore vision. A person can see bright flashes of light, and there are no painful or unpleasant sensations.

In the EMC clinic, capsulotomy is performed using a modern YAG laser from NIDEK (Japan). This ensures minimal injury to the operation and a low risk of complications.

After laser dissection, vision usually returns within 4-8 hours, which is the time of pupil constriction after instillation of dilating drops. Full recovery takes up to two weeks. It is recommended to avoid physical exertion and overheating of the body for the first day.

If you are concerned about the deterioration of vision after lens removal, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist at the EMC clinic. Specialists will tell you all about prices and features of preoperative preparation and treatment.

Question-answer

How soon can secondary cataracts appear?

It is impossible to predict pathology. Vision may be impaired again after a few months or 10 years after the first operation.

How many times can a cataract develop?

Repeated cataracts can occur only once, as they form on the posterior capsule of the lens, which is removed with a laser.