Cataracts are a common vision problem, especially as you age. They develop when the lens of your eye becomes cloudy, causing blurry vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and other visual disturbances.
Fortunately, cataract surgery can restore clear vision by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one. But after surgery, many people wonder: can cataracts come back?
Do Cataracts Return After Surgery?
Cataracts do not come back after surgery. After cataract surgery removes the cloudy lens, it cannot regrow or redevelop. However, some patients experience a condition known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which can cause similar symptoms to cataracts after surgery.
PCO is not a true cataract but occurs when the thin membrane behind the new artificial lens becomes cloudy over time.
What Causes Posterior Capsule Opacification?
Months or even years after cataract surgery, posterior capsule opacification can develop. It happens because cells left behind after surgery can grow on the back of the capsule that holds the artificial lens in place, leading to cloudiness. PCO can cause blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and trouble reading, much like cataracts.
Treatment for Posterior Capsule Opacification
The great news is that PCO is treatable. A simple, non-invasive procedure called a YAG laser capsulotomy can quickly restore clear vision.
In this procedure, a laser makes a small opening in the cloudy capsule, allowing light to pass through once again. It’s quick and causes minimal discomfort, and most patients see an immediate improvement in their vision.
How to Protect Your Vision After Cataract Surgery
While cataracts cannot return after surgery, maintaining your eye health is essential for long-term clear vision.
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and avoid smoking to support eye health. Make sure to attend regular eye exams to detect any changes in your vision early.
Schedule a Cataract Consultation in Monterey Park, CA
If you’re experiencing cloudy vision or have concerns after cataract surgery, Linda Vision in Monterey Park can help. Our team offers expert care for cataracts and any related conditions like PCO.
Call us today at 626-382-2020 to schedule your consultation and protect your vision for the future.
