YAG Laser

What is YAG Laser Treatment?

1️⃣ Definition

  • YAG (Yttrium Aluminum Garnet) laser is a non-invasive laser procedure used to treat cloudy vision after cataract surgery or to manage certain glaucoma cases.
  • It restores clear vision by removing obstructions in the eye’s optical pathway.

2️⃣ Why is YAG Laser Performed?

  • Capsulotomy: Clears the cloudy posterior capsule that forms after cataract surgery (Posterior Capsule Opacification – PCO).
  • Iridotomy: Creates a tiny hole in the iris to relieve eye pressure in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma.

3️⃣ Who Needs YAG Laser Treatment?

  • Patients who experience blurry vision months or years after cataract surgery due to PCO.
  • Individuals with narrow or closed-angle glaucoma needing improved fluid drainage.

Doctor’s Procedure:

4️⃣ Pre-Treatment Assessment

  • Comprehensive eye exam and dilated pupil examination to confirm the need for YAG laser.
  • Intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement before the procedure.

5️⃣ YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for PCO Treatment)

  • Painless, 5-minute procedure performed in the clinic.
  • A focused laser beam creates a small opening in the cloudy capsule, restoring clear vision.

6️⃣ YAG Laser Iridotomy (for Glaucoma Treatment)

  • A tiny hole is made in the iris to allow better fluid drainage, reducing intraocular pressure.
  • Prevents acute glaucoma attacks and long-term optic nerve damage.

7️⃣ Post-Treatment Recovery

  • Immediate improvement in vision clarity for capsulotomy patients.
  • Minimal discomfort, mild light sensitivity, or temporary floaters may occur.
  • Regular follow-ups ensure proper healing and eye pressure control.

8️⃣ Expected Results

  • Restores sharp vision in cataract surgery patients.
  • Reduces glaucoma-related eye pressure, preventing optic nerve damage.

9️⃣ Possible Side Effects

  • Temporary floaters or mild inflammation (usually resolve in days).
  • Rare risks include retinal detachment or increased eye pressure.

🔟 Long-Term Benefits

  • Quick, safe, and effective outpatient procedure.
  • No incisions or downtime, with permanent vision improvement.
  • Prevents vision-threatening complications in glaucoma and cataract patients.