Laser Procedure
At My Vision Eye Care we perform laser procedures for two different conditions — one for posterior capsule opacification (PCO) that can cloud vision after cataract surgery, and another to treat or prevent angle-closure glaucoma.
Both procedures are quick, performed in the outpatient department, and require no hospital stay.
Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is a common, well-understood development after cataract surgery — a thickening of the back of the lens capsule that holds the artificial lens, which gradually clouds vision. A brief laser clears it.
Angle-closure glaucoma is at the other end of the spectrum: an emergency of severe pain, blurred vision, redness and constant watering, so intense the patient struggles to open the eye. The reassuring part is that when the risk is spotted early during an eye examination, a simple preventive laser can stop the attack from ever happening.
Laser Procedure — your questions answered
What is the treatment for PCO?
PCO can be treated with a laser in a simple OPD (outpatient) procedure. Using a laser, part of the thickened capsule is cleared so light can once again pass directly to the retina — improving vision for the vast majority of people. This procedure is called Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy.
Is this major surgery?
No, it is not a surgery. However, you should not drive yourself home afterwards — the pupil-dilating drops take time to wear off and vision may be blurry following the laser. Please arrange alternative transport.
Are there any side effects?
The laser procedure is considered very safe. In some people it can cause a rise in eye pressure, swelling of the retina, or a retinal detachment.
Are there signs that tell me I have an eye problem?
Yes. Floaters, flashing lights, and/or a dark curtain moving across your vision may be signs of retinal detachment. Inform the doctor immediately if you experience any of these.
What is angle-closure glaucoma?
It happens when the front of the eye is very narrow and the iris blocks the drainage angle. When completely blocked, eye pressure rises very quickly — sudden blurred vision, severe eye pain, headache, coloured haloes and vomiting. This acute attack is a true emergency; call for help immediately.
Can we prevent angle-closure glaucoma with a laser?
Yes — a painful attack can be prevented by treating the narrow angle with a simple laser procedure called YAG iridotomy.
Are there any warning signs for narrow-angle glaucoma?
Unfortunately, people at risk often have no symptoms before an attack. People of Asian descent and those with hyperopia (farsightedness) tend to be more at risk.