YAG Frequently Asked Questions

What is YAG laser therapy?
Months or years following cataract surgery, the lens capsule that contains the new artificial lens implant may become cloudy and cause blurred vision.  The YAG (Yttrium Argon Garnet) laser creates an opening in the back portion of the lens capsule in order to restore your normal vision.

How does YAG laser therapy work?
The YAG laser delivers small, rapid bursts of energy that are focused on the cloudy capsule.  The laser energy creates a small opening that allows light to enter the eye, thus restoring normal vision.

What can I expect during the YAG treatment?
The YAG treatment is a quick and painless outpatient procedure that is performed in our ambulatory surgery center.  There are no needles, no stitches, and no shots.  Drops are used to dilate the pupil and numb the eye.  Your doctor places a contact lens on your eye to focus the laser energy.  You may see flashes of light and hear clicking noises during the procedure, which takes only a few minutes.

Is the YAG treatment reimbursed by Medicare?
Yes, YAG treatments are reimbursed by Medicare and most insurance providers.

What can I expect after the YAG treatment?
Most patients should expect their vision to improve within 24 hours of the YAG treatment.  Normal activities may be resumed immediately after surgery.  Patients should anticipate “floaters” following the procedure, but these should dissipate within a few weeks.

How many treatments are required?
Only one per eye.

What are the side effects with YAG treatment?
The most common side effect is the presentation of “floaters” but these typically dissipate within a few weeks.  Complications are rare, but may include increased pressure within the eye, a dislocation of the artificial lens implant through the opening that is created in the back portion of the lens capsule, or, rarely, a detached retina.  If you are in a high risk group, your follow-up will be more extensive.

Will treatment be done on both eyes at the same time?
No, one eye is typically done at a time per the written policy of our ambulatory surgery center and the prevailing medical standard of care.

Will I be able to drive home following the treatment?
Yes