Mr Sohail Ahmed
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Yag laser

What is a YAG Laser Capsulotomy?

A YAG laser capsulotomy is a precise and efficient procedure designed to restore clear vision after cataract surgery. Over time, the lens capsule—the part of the eye that holds the artificial lens—can become cloudy, leading to blurred vision, this is called Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO). Using a focused laser beam, this procedure creates a small opening in the cloudy capsule, allowing light to enter clearly again. The process is quick, typically painless, and carried out on an outpatient basis, often bringing immediate improvement in sight.

Symptoms

After cataract surgery, some patients may experience Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO), where the capsule holding the lens implant becomes cloudy. This cloudiness usually develops gradually and can mimic the symptoms of the original cataract, leading to decreased visual clarity. Common issues include progressively blurred vision, bothersome glare and halos around lights, difficulty seeing fine details, and muted colours. These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities, such as driving at night or engaging in tasks that require sharp vision. The main symptoms to watch for with PCO are blurred vision, glare and halos, difficulty with fine details, and muted colours. These can be effectively treated with a simple laser procedure to restore clear vision.

Glare

Blurred vision

Muted colours

Yag Laser Treatment

Yag laser treatment is a helpful option for several eye conditions, using a device that emits a highly focused beam of light. This laser is part of a setup similar to the microscope used during your eye exams in the clinic. One common use for the laser is in a procedure called Capsulotomy, where the laser creates a clear opening in the capsule of your eye lens, helping you see clearly again. This procedure, typically referred to as a YAG Laser Capsulotomy, because it uses a YAG laser, is performed in a day clinic at the hospital. It is a quick, outpatient procedure that does not require an overnight stay.
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What are the risks?

Laser treatment for eye conditions is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks and potential side effects. Here are the main points to consider:
There’s a slight risk that the procedure could raise the pressure inside your eye or worsen existing glaucoma. This can typically be managed with medication-like eye drops or tablets.
The eye might become inflamed after the procedure.
While rare, there is a risk of developing a retinal tear or detachment that would require further treatment.
There is a small chance that vision could worsen following the procedure.
Sometimes, a second laser treatment may be necessary.
These risks are uncommon, and your doctor will discuss them with you to ensure you are fully informed before proceeding with treatment.

4 Tips to Improving Success

Achieve better outcomes with expert surgeons, advanced procedures, and a commitment to quality care. Our focus on precision, efficiency, and timely surgeries ensures your vision restoration is in trusted hands.

The Surgeon

The experience of your eye surgeon is a key factor in the success of this procedure. I will personally perform your laser treatment, and as a consultant eye surgeon with over 1000 laser procedures performed, you can be assured that I will perform a painless and safe procedure.

The Procedure

The YAG laser capsulotomy procedure is generally very safe. It is undertaken as an outpatient procedure on a machine like that on which your eyes would have been examined. With the aid of the lens and some drops the procedure is completed in a short period of time. I will guide you through the process and explain everything in a simple and clear way.

Quality Surgery

It is very important to get the laser treatment complete in one go, to improve your vision to its maximum potential. I’m a Consultant ophthalmic surgeon with an expertise in undertaking various ophthalmic lasers, include Yag Laser Capsulotomy.

Timely Surgery

The capsule behind your cataract lens may cloud over at any time. However, when symptomatic, it is vital that the time between initial consultation and treatment with laser is quick. I will ensure that you are seen and booked to have the laser within 2 weeks.

Yag Laser FAQs

Your treatment will take place in the Outpatients department. We’ll give you an arrival time to allow for preparation. Typically, laser treatment sessions include 5 or 6 patients. If you have diabetes, please bring along your insulin, tablets, and some food in case your stay is extended. It’s also a good idea to eat and drink before you arrive.
You and your doctor will decide on the best treatment together, considering the benefits and risks and your specific needs. Your doctor will explain all the treatment options and what happens if you choose not to have treatment. Before the operation, you’ll be asked to sign a consent form, so it’s important you understand everything. If you need it, we can provide the consent form information in large print.

⦁ Don’t drive yourself to the appointment as your vision will be blurred for a few hours afterward.
⦁ Continue to use all your usual eye drops, including glaucoma drops unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
⦁ Bring all your glasses with you.

⦁ A nurse will first check your vision.
⦁ Eye drops will be administered to dilate your pupil, which takes about 15 to 20 minutes and will blur your vision.
⦁ The doctor will explain the procedure and, once you’re comfortable, you’ll sign a consent form. Feel free to ask any questions if anything is unclear.
⦁ You will sit at a laser machine, similar to the microscope used in eye exams. Anesthetic drops will be applied to your eye to prevent discomfort, and a special contact lens will be placed on your eye to minimize movement and focus the laser.
⦁ The treatment itself is quick, typically lasting 5 to 10 minutes, and involves minimal discomfort, though the light can be bright.
⦁ You’ll hear clicking sounds and see bright red lights during the procedure. You’ll need to look at a specific spot to keep your eye still.

⦁ You might need additional eye drops or tablets to prevent inflammation and control eye pressure shortly after the treatment.
⦁ Your vision may be blurry for 3 to 4 hours, and driving is not advisable during this time. Please arrange for someone to take you home.
⦁ Most patients notice immediate vision improvement once the dilating drops wear off, though some may see gradual improvements over a few days.
⦁ It’s common to see floaters for a few days after the procedure, but they should settle down.

Before you leave, check with your doctor if you need a follow-up appointment. It’s usual to have a routine check-up after your laser treatment to ensure everything is progressing well.

⦁ If you notice an increase in floaters (they should decrease over time).
⦁ If you experience a sudden loss or reduction in vision.
⦁ If you have severe pain or redness in your eye.
We’re here to make sure your treatment and recovery go as smoothly as possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns.

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