YAG laser capsulotomy recovery timeline: hour by hour and day by day

YAG laser capsulotomy is one of the fastest eye procedures you can have — often finished in under 10 minutes per eye. Recovery is usually just as quick, but knowing exactly what to expect helps you plan the day and spot anything unusual.

The short answer

Most patients notice clearer vision within a few hours of YAG laser capsulotomy, with a fuller improvement over 24–48 hours. Small floaters may take 1–4 weeks to settle. Serious complications are rare.

Hour by hour on the day of treatment

- **Immediately after:** Vision is misty, pupils are dilated and small floaters are often visible.

- **1–2 hours:** Anaesthetic drops wear off; vision starts to improve.

- **3–6 hours:** Dilation begins to reverse; reading vision returns.

- **End of day:** Most patients can see well enough for TV and general activity, though not sharp enough to drive.

Day by day

- **Day 1:** Vision is usually much clearer. Most patients can drive again if they meet the DVLA standard.

- **Days 2–7:** Any remaining glare or halos usually settle. Anti-inflammatory drops (if prescribed) are used as directed.

- **Weeks 2–4:** Small floaters from the treated capsule tend to gradually settle out of the line of sight.

- **Weeks 4–6:** Final refraction is stable; a routine review confirms good pressure and no complications.

What is normal

- Mild soreness or grittiness for a few hours

- Small floaters, especially when looking at a plain background

- Slightly increased light sensitivity for a day

- A small, temporary rise in intraocular pressure (checked at your review)

What is not normal — call the clinic

- Sudden loss of vision

- A curtain of shadow across your vision

- New, dense floaters with flashing lights

- Severe eye pain not settling with over-the-counter analgesia

These symptoms are rare but need urgent review to rule out retinal complications.

Book a consultant-led YAG assessment

Ms Tahmina Pearsall offers consultant-led YAG laser capsulotomy from £450 per eye across UK clinics. Visit the YAG laser capsulotomy clinic page to arrange an appointment.