Although cataracts cannot return once they are removed, it is possible to develop posterior capsular opacification, also known as "secondary cataract" or "post-cataract." There is no way to predict exactly which patients will develop it, but it is one of the most common complications of cataract surgery.
Although some people may notice cloudiness weeks or months after cataract surgery, it usually takes several years for capsular opacification to develop. The good news is that a quick laser procedure can fix this problem so you can get back to enjoying restored vision.
What is a secondary cataract?
During cataract surgery, a circular opening is made in the front of the clear membrane that surrounds the cataract. The cataract is then broken up, removed, and replaced with a clear intraocular lens. The new lens is surrounded by the eye's clear membrane, and over time, cellular material can migrate to the back of the membrane (posterior capsule). As these cells build up and become opaque, the light entering the eye is darkened and scattered, resulting in blurred vision reminiscent of the cataract that was removed.
Secondary symptoms of cataract
The term "secondary cataract" is a misnomer, as it actually it's not another cataract that distorts your vision. It's easy to understand why people use this term instead of posterior capsular opacification, since its symptoms line-for-line match cataract:
- Cloudy or blurry vision.
- Decreased vision and difficulty seeing at night.
- Glare caused by bright lights.
- Double vision.
Laser Treatment for Secondary Cataracts
Treatment for a secondary cataract is simple. It involves a technique called laser capsulotomy, a non-invasive outpatient procedure that only takes a few minutes and can result in almost immediate vision improvement. There is no incision or contact with the eye during the procedure, which means no pain or discomfort.
During a laser capsulotomy, the ophthalmologist uses short pulses of laser energy to make a small hole in the posterior capsule. This opening eliminates cloudy vision by allowing light to pass unobstructed to the back of the eye.
Although results are usually immediate, vision may still be slightly blurry after the procedure due to a dilated pupil and debris from the ruptured capsule. This will gradually disappear.
El Dr. Humberto Carreras, medical director of Vithas Eurocanarias Ophthalmological Institute, explains in this video if it is necessary to have cataract surgery again over the years.
