Can cataracts come back?

Cataract surgery is an efficient method that brings back clear vision to millions of people every year. However many people wonder “Can cataracts come back?”. In this article, Zextrasure will explore whether cataracts can return after surgery and discuss how secondary cataracts can be managed, ensuring your eye health and clarity of vision are maintained for years to come.

1. Can cataracts come back after surgery?

Before learning about the answer to the question “Can cataracts come back after removal?” you need to understand the nature of cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is a minor procedure and takes about 15-20 minutes per eye. The doctor uses a small ultrasound device to soften and break up the cloudy natural lens, then removes it from the eye and replaces it with an intraocular lens (IOL). Since this intraocular lens is made from synthetic material, it won’t degrade like the natural lens.

Because the natural lens has been replaced by an artificial lens, it won’t become cloudy again. Therefore, the answer to the question, “Can cataracts come back?” is that recurrence is impossible.

However, in many cases after surgery, the lens capsule can become cloudy. This condition may lead to blurred vision and produce symptoms similar to cataracts. These symptoms can appear about 12 to 18 months after surgery and are commonly called “secondary cataracts” or posterior capsular opacification. 

The answer to the question “Can cataracts return?” is No

2. Reason of eye opening after cataract surgery

The answer to the question "Can cataracts come back?" has been provided above. Cataracts do not recur, but they are replaced by the phenomenon of secondary cataracts. Secondary cataracts arise due to the growth of epithelial cells in the posterior capsule and on the surface of the new capsule that holds the artificial lens. 

This issue is a common outcome after cataract surgery. According to a 2021 report by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists in the UK, posterior capsule opacification (PCO) develops in:

• 4% of patients within the first year following surgery
• 18% of patients within three years
• 31.2% of patients within five years

Several factors appear to raise the status of developing a secondary cataract, including:

• Being younger
• Have a history of uveitis
• Presence of glaucoma
• High blood pressure
• Metabolic disorders, such as diabetes
• Subcapsular cataracts, which impact the rear portion of the lens, can lead to vision impairment.
• Eye trauma

The condition known as secondary cataracts is the response to the question, "Can cataracts come back?"

3. Symptoms of secondary cataracts

Understanding the answer to the question "Can cataracts come back?" will lead you to realize that secondary cataracts often produce symptoms similar to those of an initial cataract. The most noticeable symptom is a gradual blurring or cloudiness in vision, which reduces overall visual clarity. 

Additional symptoms may include:

• Sensitivity to bright lights
• Halos appearing around lights
• Trouble reading
• Reduced sharpness of vision
• Difficulty distinguishing contrasts in images

4. Treatment methods secondary cataracts

The treatment for secondary cataracts is straightforward, quick, and painless for patients. The suggested treatment option is a YAG laser capsulotomy. In this procedure, a YAG laser is used to make a small opening in the cloudy portion of the posterior capsule along the visual axis, restoring a clear pathway for light to reach the retina. This method requires no incisions, and patients can return home immediately without any restrictions on activities.

To help clarify the process, here are the typical steps for removing secondary cataracts:

• Dilation of the pupil: Eye drops are used to dilate the pupil, allowing the doctor to see the entire posterior capsule within the eye.
• Laser application: A laser targets and removes the cloudy part of the capsule without the need for any incisions or direct contact with the eye.
• Preventive eye drops: Anti-inflammatory eye drops are given to prevent infection and reduce inflammation after the procedure.

Treatment method secondary cataracts by YAG laser

5. Risks of surgery YAG laser

According to medical experts, the risk of complications following YAG laser capsulotomy is very low. However, there are still a few potential risks, such as:

• Increased eye pressure: Temporary elevation in intraocular pressure may occur after the procedure, though it’s usually manageable with medication.
• Retinal detachment: In rare cases, the laser treatment may lead to a detachment of the retina, requiring additional intervention.
• Damage to the artificial lens: The laser might accidentally damage the artificial lens, though this is uncommon.
• Inflammation: Mild inflammation can occur, but it’s generally treatable with anti-inflammatory eye drops.

Can you get cataracts twice? - No, you can only develop secondary cataracts if you don't take proper care

6. Prevention of secondary cataracts

Secondary cataracts are the answer to the question "Can cataracts come back?", which are common after cataract surgery. However, there are several measures you can take to decrease the chances of developing this condition or delay its onset:

• Selecting Advanced IOLs: Newer intraocular lenses (IOLs) with specialized designs and materials have been developed to reduce the risk of PCO by creating a barrier against cell migration on the capsule.
• Post-Surgery Care: Following all post-surgery care guidelines and attending regular check-ups can help detect early signs of PCO and other complications.
• Anti-inflammatory Medications: Using prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops as directed can help lower the chance of inflammation, which is sometimes associated with the development of secondary cataracts.
• Healthy Eye Habits: Maintaining overall eye health through proper nutrition, avoiding smoking, and managing any underlying health issues, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can also support eye recovery and reduce secondary complications.

7. FAQs

Can secondary cataracts return after YAG laser capsulotomy?

No, secondary cataracts cannot return after a YAG laser capsulotomy. This procedure removes the cloudy part of the posterior capsule permanently, so once treated, it does not reoccur.

What is the recovery time after a YAG laser procedure?

Recovery time after YAG laser capsulotomy is quick. Most patients notice an improvement in vision within a day or two, and full recovery is usually within a week. 

How serious is a secondary cataract?

A secondary cataracts is not a serious or dangerous condition. However, it can impair vision similarly to an original cataract, causing symptoms like blurred vision, light sensitivity, and halos around lights. 

The article above has helped answer the question "Can cataracts come back?". While cataracts themselves cannot return, it’s possible to develop secondary cataracts after surgery. However, this condition is not too dangerous, and treatment is very simple, so there is no need to worry too much. However, it is best to visit a doctor if you notice any unusual signs in your eyes after the surgery.