A Cataract is a condition of eye lens clouding that leads to a gradual loss of vision.
This condition may lead to severe eye discomfort and can be treated only through surgical procedures.
However, as the development of Cataracts is a natural aging process, many people wonder- Can Cataracts come back after surgery?
Let us explore the possibility of Cataracts returning after surgery in this article.
Can Cataracts Come Back After Surgery
No, Cataracts cannot come back after surgery.
This is because, in Cataract surgery, the natural eye lens is replaced with an artificial Intraocular lens that cannot develop Cataracts.
Artificial Intraocular lens is a medical device made of biocompatible material used to replace the cloudy natural lens and restore clear vision.
However, people may complain of Cataract-like symptoms a few months after the surgery.
This is a common post-surgery complication known as Secondary Cataract or Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO).
During the Cataract surgery, some residual cells of the Cataract-affected lens may remain in the eye lens capsule.
These cells then grow and form cloudy patches at the back of the lens capsule, resulting in Posterior Capsular Opacification.
The common symptoms of this condition include blurry vision, glare, and light sensitivity.
Besides PCO, there may be many other side effects of Cataract surgeries. To learn about them in detail, read Safeguarding Sight: Unveiling the Cataract Surgery Side Effects.
Fortunately, PCO can be easily treated with the help of a simple laser procedure.
Therefore, it is best to talk to your eye doctor if you experience any visual discomfort post Cataract surgery.
How to Treat Secondary Cataracts After Surgery
Source: RossHelenPost-surgery Secondary Cataracts are treated using the YAG Laser Capsulotomy procedure.
This procedure involves clearing the cloudy patches using a laser beam. It is a quick and painless procedure, often taking only a few minutes.
YAG laser capsulotomy is considered a safe and effective method of treatment for PCO. Most patients experience immediate improvement in vision after the procedure.
However, this laser treatment method may rarely lead to some side effects, such an increase in eye pressure or eye infections.
To reduce such risks, you may be prescribed steroid or antibiotic eye drops by your eye doctor.
Possible Side Effects of YAG treatment
YAG laser capsulotomy is considered a safe and effective method of treatment for PCO. Most patients experience immediate improvement in vision after the procedure.
However, like all procedures, this laser treatment method may rarely lead to some side effects.
These side effects may include an increase in eye pressure, retinal detachment, or eye infections.
To reduce such risks, you may be prescribed steroid or antibiotic eye drops by your eye doctor.
Conclusion
A Cataract is an eye condition that requires surgery for effective treatment.
The answer to the common question ‘Can Cataracts come back after surgery?’ is no. This is because the new artificial lens in the eye cannot develop Cataracts like a natural lens would.
However, individuals may develop another condition known as Secondary Cataract or Posterior Capsular Opacification after a Cataract surgery.
This condition results from the growth of the residual Cataract cells in the eye lens capsule.
Secondary Cataract after surgery is treated through a laser procedure known as YAG Laser Capsulotomy.
It is advised to seek medical attention from a certified eye doctor if you observe any eye discomfort after your Cataract surgery.
For more information about healing after a Cataract Surgery, read Healing and Recovery: A Guide to Life After Cataract Surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cataracts grow back?
No, Cataracts do not grow back after they have been surgically removed. The cloudy natural lens is replaced with a synthetic intraocular lens (IOL) during cataract surgery.
Once the cloudy lens is removed, Cataracts cannot regrow. However, individuals may develop Secondary Cataract after surgery that may have Cataract-like symptoms.
Can you have Cataracts twice?
No, you cannot have Cataracts twice once the surgery is done. However, individuals may experience Secondary Cataracts as an after-surgery effect.
This is a condition where the eye lens capsule becomes cloudy due to the residual lens cells.
How common is it for Cataracts to come back after surgery?
Secondary Cataracts after surgery are relatively common. However, the severity of the symptoms may vary among individuals.
Also, this condition is treatable with a quick and effective procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy.
How many years does Cataract surgery last?
Cataract surgery is considered a permanent procedure, and its effects typically last a lifetime. However, other age-related changes in the eye, such as the development of Secondary Cataracts or other eye conditions, can occur over time and may require additional attention or treatment.
What age is best for Cataract surgery?
There are no strict age criteria for Cataract surgery for individuals. It is recommended to undergo surgery when the Cataract symptoms start impacting your everyday activities.
For more detailed information, consult your ophthalmologist.
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