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P: (303) 444-3000

F: (303) 444-3226
4745 Arapahoe Ave, Ste 100

Boulder, CO 80303
M-F 8:30a-Noon & 1:00p-5:00p

Closed on Weekends

Laser For Secondary Cataracts

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ENLARGE TEXT

A laser for secondary cataracts (posterior capsulotomy) is a surgical laser procedure that may be necessary after cataract surgery.

 

During cataract surgery part of the front (anterior) capsule that holds the lens is removed. The clear back (posterior) capsule remains intact. As long as that capsule stays clear one has good vision. But in 10 to 30% of people, the posterior capsule loses its clarity. The symptoms from this may be very similar to those that occurred prior to the cataract surgery. Some patients may feel like the cataract is “coming back.” Even though the symptoms are similar, it is much easier to treat this scarring of the posterior capsule. An opening is made in the capsule with a laser (posterior capsulotomy) to restore normal vision.

A posterior capsulotomy is painless and takes five minutes. Eye pressure is taken an hour after the operation to make sure it is not elevated. Potential but rare complications following laser posterior capsulotomy are increased intraocular pressure and retinal detachment. Symptoms typically improve within a day following the procedure. Once performed, it is unusual to have to perform a laser posterior capsulotomy a second time on the same eye.

secondary_cataracts
A laser is a quick and painless procedure that can remove scar tissue formed following cataract surgery

What Patients Say About Boulder Eye Surgeons

97% of our patients would refer friends and family to us

  • My first eye exam at Boulder Eye Surgeons was very thorough and informative. The technician that gave the eye exam was very friendly and explained exactly what was going on behind these blue peepers regarding my far sightedness! Dr. Keller is my favorite eye doctor and I would recommend him for any serious eye difficulty.

    Gayle E.

  • I wouldn’t trust my eyes to anyone other than Boulder Eye Surgeons. THE BEST!!!

    Carla G.

  • Short wait to be seen. Everyone makes you feel comfortable. Working with Chris was great. Dr. Cuevas explains things in easy to understand terms and is never condescending. He makes you feel secure in his knowledge. Dr. Cuevas is my go-to guy for eye problems.

    Christine N.

  • Boulder Eye Surgeons have made it easy to visit safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. My appointment was on-time and efficiently executed. This is an outstanding ophthalmology office.

    Susan C.

  • Always professional - always 'top notch'. Dr. Keller and the staff are always respectful and kind. I feel that Dr. Keller is an excellent eye surgeon that I can trust.

    - Charles C.

  • Pre and post cataract surgery followup with BES staff was excellent. All staff members were very knowledgeable and efficient as I called several times with questions. Surgery with Dr. Cuevas was excellent and I am very happy so far with results. Dr. Cuevas was clear and transparent with answers to my post-surgery questions and spent substantial time with me pre-surgery to make sure we came up with the best solution to meet my athletic vision requirements. I highly recommend Boulder Eye Surgeons.

    - Michael L.

  • The professionalism of the entire staff is impressive. Dr. Nichols spent adequate time with me explaining everything thoroughly. My daughter came with me and he took the time to address her concerns and answer her questions. The Optical department is just as 5 star as the rest of the practice. I am so grateful to these people for how they are addressing my problems with my eyes which involve a complex medical condition.

    - Edna B.

Questions? Contact our office at (303) 444-3000 to schedule a consultation.

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