YAG in Nashville, TN

In certain instances, patients may experience hazy vision several years after having cataract removal surgery. This phenomenon occurs when the capsule (which is left intact after the procedure to hold the patient's artificial lens in place) produces cloudy cells that blur their line of sight. Along with cloudy eyesight, some also experience glare problems when driving at night. This common condition is known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and typically occurs months or years after surgery. Thankfully, PCO can be treated simply and easily with a noninvasive laser procedure called YAG capsulotomy.

At Wang Vision Institute, our skilled ophthalmologists perform YAG laser capsulotomies for patients experiencing blurred, cloudy vision several months or years after receiving cataract removal surgery. This nonsurgical treatment is performed at our Nashville, TN office by skilled ophthalmologist Dr. Ming Wang. If you had cataract surgery in the past and are now experiencing cloudy eyesight, don't hesitate to contact our premier facility and schedule your comprehensive eye examination. During your one on one, our highly trained eye surgeons will formulate a treatment plan to solve your vision issues and restore your clear sight.

YAG laser capsulotomies offer several advantages for those who experience posterior capsule opacification, or PCO. Wang Vision Institute performs treatment on an outpatient basis, and there is little to no discomfort involved during the procedure. Most people can return to their regular activities the following day. YAG laser capsulotomy is also highly effective, with countless patients regaining clear vision right away. Dr. Wang has years of experience performing this treatment and works diligently to make sure you are pleased with the results.

YAG capsulotomy is a fairly common outpatient procedure that is performed at our office. Ideal candidates for this innovative treatment are patients who have undergone cataract removal surgery in the past and are now having complications with blurred vision. Just like with other surgeries, it's recommended that patients be in good health before receiving YAG capsulotomy. To determine if this treatment is the best solution for your needs, our ophthalmologists will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your eye health. If your cataract surgery was successful with few or no issues, you will likely be approved for this surgery. You may be denied for a capsulotomy if you have certain preexisting conditions, such as:

• Macular edema
• Chronic or currently active uveitis
• A history of retinal tears or detachment
• A history of high intraocular pressure

A YAG capsulotomy is an outpatient procedure and takes just 15 – 20 minutes to perform here at our Nashville, TN office. Before your procedure, a member of our Wang Vision Institute team will dilate your pupils by applying special drops to the affected eye. When the dilating drops have taken effect, we will ask you to sit very still as one of our eye surgeons uses our state-of-the-art YAG laser to create an opening in the center of the cloudy capsule. This hole allows light to pass through, which in turn decreases or eliminates the cloudiness hampering your vision. Most patients notice an instant improvement in their sight while others may experience a gradual improvement over several days.

Patients who receive YAG capsulotomy will likely be asked to come in the following day for a post-surgery check-in, as well as attend a second follow-up in the next week or so. The check-ins are essential because it's during these sessions that we'll be able to assess your results and make sure that the treatment was a success. This will also give you an opportunity to let us know if you're experiencing any complications or have any questions regarding your eye health.

The majority of people experience little to no discomfort after a YAG capsulotomy, but if you do, it should subside within 48 hours. We may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory eye drops, which you should administer to your eyes for a few weeks after your surgery. Since the surgery is noninvasive, patients will be able to return to their normal routines the next day. You should notice a significant improvement with your vision one day following the procedure.

How do I know when I need a YAG laser capsulotomy?
There are many indications that you may need a YAG laser procedure. This typically includes when fibrosis, wrinkling, or opacification of the posterior capsule is present. During a thorough consultation at Wang Vision Institute, our Nashville, TN team will evaluate the current state of your eye health to determine if you are an ideal candidate for this procedure.

What is the recovery time for YAG laser capsulotomy?
Though the recovery may vary from patient to patient, it can typically take about 1 – 2 days to see clearly. You should be able to return to work and your normal daily routine once your vision improved.

How safe is YAG laser capsulotomy?
YAG laser capsulotomy is considered a safe and effective procedure. Our Nashville, TN eye professionals at Wang Vision Institute will let you know what you can expect before, during, and after your treatment. We will also provide the necessary instructions to help you heal properly.

What causes PCO after cataract surgery?

PCO occurs when the back portion of the lens capsule, left intact during cataract surgery, thickens and clouds over time. This can lead to vision issues similar to those experienced with cataracts.

Can PCO happen again after YAG capsulotomy?

YAG capsulotomy is effective in treating PCO by creating an opening in the clouded capsule. While the procedure is generally permanent, new opacifications are rare. However, other conditions may affect vision over time, and regular eye exams and follow-ups are recommended.

Will I need someone to drive me home after a YAG capsulotomy?

YAG capsulotomy is a quick and outpatient procedure that usually does not require sedation. Most patients can resume normal activities, including driving, immediately after the treatment. However, individual responses may vary, and our team will discuss what you may expect after your procedure based on unique factors, helping you to plan for your post-treatment transportation accordingly.

At Wang Vision Institute, our team knows that developing blurry, clouded vision after cataract surgery can be disheartening or even frustrating for many patients. This is why we're proud to perform YAG capsulotomy, a simple, noninvasive laser treatment to restore your clear vision and quality of life. If you think you may be experiencing cloudy vision as a result of posterior capsule opacification (PCO), contact our Nashville, TN office and schedule your one-on-one eye examination with one of our skilled ophthalmologists. Our team at Wang Vision Institute looks forward to enhancing your eye health, as well as your eyesight.