YAG laser capsulotomy aftercare: drops, rest and what to avoid

YAG laser capsulotomy is a very small procedure with a short recovery, but good aftercare makes the recovery smoother and reduces the risk of complications. Here is a practical guide.

The short answer

After YAG laser capsulotomy, most patients use anti-inflammatory eye drops for a few days, avoid heavy exertion for 24–48 hours and attend a follow-up review at 2–4 weeks. Normal daily activities usually resume the next day.

Eye drops

Your consultant may prescribe:

- A short course of anti-inflammatory drops for 3–7 days

- Pressure-lowering drops if your intraocular pressure rose during the procedure

- Lubricating drops if your eye feels gritty

Use them exactly as directed and space different drops by at least 5 minutes.

What to avoid in the first 24–48 hours

- Heavy lifting or high-intensity exercise

- Rubbing the treated eye

- Eye makeup on the day of treatment

- Very dusty environments or DIY without eye protection

After 48 hours, most restrictions can be relaxed unless your consultant advises otherwise.

What is fine straight away

- Reading, watching TV and looking at screens

- Showering (keep water and soap out of the eye)

- Walking and gentle activity

- Wearing sunglasses in bright light

When to review

Most patients are reviewed 2–4 weeks after YAG laser to:

- Check intraocular pressure

- Confirm the capsule opening is well positioned

- Ensure there is no cystoid macular oedema

- Update your prescription if needed

When to call the clinic urgently

- Sudden loss of vision

- A curtain of shadow across your vision

- New dense floaters with flashing lights

- Severe pain not settled with paracetamol

Book a consultant-led YAG assessment

Ms Tahmina Pearsall offers consultant-led YAG laser capsulotomy from £450 per eye across UK clinics, with a written aftercare plan given at every appointment. Visit the YAG laser capsulotomy clinic to arrange an appointment.