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YAG capsulotomy is a simple laser treatment used to restore clear vision after cataract surgery. In some patients, the lens capsule (thin layer) that holds the artificial lens in place can slowly become cloudy over time. This is called Posterior Capsule Opacification, or PCO.
When this happens, light cannot pass through the eye as clearly as it should. Your vision may start to feel misty or blurred again, and you might notice more glare from bright lights. Although this can be frustrating, it is a common and natural change that can occur after cataract surgery.
The good news is that PCO is not a return of your cataract and can be treated quickly and effectively. YAG laser treatment gently clears the cloudy layer, allowing light to pass through properly again. The procedure is fast, painless and highly successful, with most patients noticing a clear improvement in their vision soon afterwards.
YAG laser treatment is recommended for patients who have previously undergone cataract surgery and are experiencing a noticeable decline in the clarity of their vision – caused by posterior capsular opacification.
Before advising treatment, your consultant will carry out a detailed eye examination to confirm that your symptoms are linked to changes in the posterior capsule that supports your artificial lens. This ensures the treatment offered is both appropriate and safe for your individual eye health.
You may be suitable for YAG laser treatment if you are experiencing:
These changes can affect everyday activities such as driving, reading or using digital screens. If your consultant confirms that these symptoms are caused by capsular thickening following cataract surgery, YAG laser treatment can usually restore your vision effectively.
Your suitability will always be assessed on an individual basis, and your consultant will take time to explain the findings of your examination and answer any questions you may have before proceeding.
During your consultation, one of our experienced consultant ophthalmic surgeons will carry out a detailed eye examination to confirm whether YAG laser treatment is suitable for you and whether your symptoms are caused by Posterior Capsule Opacification.
If both eyes require treatment, it is often possible to treat them on the same day. Your consultant will confirm whether this is appropriate for you and explain what to expect.
You will have plenty of time to discuss your results, ask questions and raise any concerns, so you feel fully informed and confident about your next steps. The consultation fee is £300, which covers the full assessment and personalised advice.
Your total appointment time will usually be between one and two hours. Before the treatment begins, our clinical team will make sure you feel fully prepared and comfortable.
The laser treatment itself is quick and painless, typically taking around five to ten minutes.
You will usually be able to return home shortly after your treatment, although you will need someone else to drive you.
Our team will provide clear aftercare advice and will be available to support you if you have any questions following your treatment.
| Treatment | Price |
|---|---|
| Consultation | £300 |
| One eye | £695 |
| Both eyes (same day) | £995 |
Find out more about Private Medical Insurance cover available Optegra.
YAG laser capsulotomy is a well-established and very safe procedure, with the vast majority of patients experiencing a smooth treatment and clear improvement in vision. As with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks, although serious complications are uncommon.
Some patients may experience temporary effects after treatment, including:
Your consultant will discuss these risks with you before treatment and explain what symptoms to look out for. The vast majority of patients experience a smooth recovery and a lasting improvement in vision following YAG laser treatment.
Recovery after YAG laser treatment is usually straightforward. Some patients may be advised to use eye drops for a short period to help soothe mild inflammation and support healing. Your consultant will explain any aftercare you need and when to use it.
You should avoid driving on the day of your treatment, but most patients are able to return to work and drive the following day, once their vision has settled and they feel comfortable.
If you would like to discuss YAG laser treatment with our team, please fill the form on this page and our experienced patient services team will get in touch with you right away.
Yes, YAG laser capsulotomy is a permanent solution. The laser creates a permanent opening in the cloudy membrane (the posterior capsule) to clear your line of sight. Once this tissue is removed, it cannot grow back or cloud over again. In very rare cases, a brief follow-up may be required to slightly enlarge the opening for optimal vision, but for most patients, a single treatment lasts a lifetime.
No. Cataract surgery replaces the eye’s cloudy lens, while YAG laser treatment is a non-invasive follow-up to clear the membrane behind that lens.
Unlike cataract surgery, YAG involves no incisions or stitches, takes only a few minutes, and is performed in a standard consultation room rather than an operating theatre.
At Optegra, when having the standard or enhanced cataract procedures, our YAG laser eye capsulotomy costs £695 for one eye and £995 for both eyes. If you have had the advanced cataract procedure, then you qualify for free corrective YAG laser capsulotomy treatment within one year of your surgery. There is an initial fee of £300 for YAG consultations.
In some patients, vision may become cloudy again months or even years after cataract surgery. This is usually caused by Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO), a natural change that can occur after treatment.
PCO develops when residual lens cells collect on the bag (capsule) that supports the artificial lens, making it less transparent and reducing the amount of light reaching the back of the eye. Although PCO can affect your vision, it is not a return of the cataract. It can be treated quickly and effectively with YAG laser treatment, helping to restore clear vision.
Stronger glasses may help in the short-term, however if the thickening is significant and vision is impacted, YAG laser capsulotomy is the only solution for vision restoration.
Mr. Amir Hamid is Chief Medical Officer at Optegra and an expert refractive surgeon, based in London.
Medically Reviewed Date: 11th March 2026
