Clarity lost after cataract surgery
Months or years following cataract surgery, it’s not uncommon for vision to become blurred, cloudy, or feel like there’s a film over the eye. This is often due to posterior capsule opacification (PCO), sometimes called a ‘secondary cataract’.
PCO is not harmful to the eye, but it can significantly reduce visual quality. It can be effectively treated with a simple procedure known as YAG laser capsulotomy.
Signs you might have PCO
Cloudy, hazy, or blurred vision
Glare or haloes around lights, especially at night
Colours looking duller than before
Trouble reading or recognising faces in dim light
If you’ve already had cataract surgery and these symptoms are appearing, it’s worth booking an assessment.
When to treat vs when to monitor?
| Treatment recommended | Monitoring advised |
|---|---|
| Visual disturbance is affecting daily activities such as driving, reading or recognising faces | Visual changes are mild and not impacting quality of life |
| Significant glare or haloes, particularly when driving at night | Vision remains functional with current glasses |
| Colours appear noticeably faded or washed out | Symptoms are stable and not progressing |
YAG laser capsulotomy
A YAG laser capsulotomy uses a precise, painless laser to make a tiny opening in the cloudy capsule that holds your artificial lens. This allows light to pass through normally again, restoring the clarity you had after your original surgery.
- No incisions or stitches
- Typically completed within 5 minutes
- Painless, with anaesthetic eye drops
- Immediate return to normal activities in most cases
- Long-lasting results; recurrence is rare
“I appreciated his honest assessment, review of possible options and considerations and his judgement”
Keith B.
Meet Professor Williamson
Professor Tom Williamson is one of the UK’s foremost retinal surgeons, practising in London. With over 40 years in the field, he has performed more than 20,000 operations and is recognised for both his meticulous technique and consistently successful outcomes. Known for his clear, pragmatic approach, Professor Williamson offers patients highly personalised care with continuity over the long term.
What to expect at our clinic
Expert diagnosis
We'll confirm whether your symptoms are due to PCO or another cause
Tailored advice
You'll be recommended treatment only if it genuinely benefits you
Precise laser technique
We'll minimise risk and maximise clarity
What’s the price of YAG laser capsulotomy?
The cost of YAG laser capsulotomy for self-paying patients is:
- £1,897 for one eye
- £3,096 for both eyes
Insurance
We work with major insurance providers, including Bupa, AXA‑PPP, Vitality, WPA, and Aviva. As Professor Williamson is not a fee‑assured consultant, your insurer may not cover the full amount - we’ll confirm any costs with you before treatment.
Next steps
- 1
Book a consultation at our central London clinic.
Book a consultation at our central London clinic.
- 2
Receive a confirmed diagnosis and tailored treatment recommendation.
Receive a confirmed diagnosis and tailored treatment recommendation.
- 3
Proceed with same-day treatment if appropriate and desired.
Proceed with same-day treatment if appropriate and desired.
“I come for regular checks to meet with the Professor and I feel confident that I am under the care of an expert”
Anthony T.
“I appreciated his honest assessment, review of possible options and considerations and his judgement”
Keith B.
“He is a very skilled surgeon; I am truly grateful to him, and I would recommend him to anyone without a second thought”
Roger S.
Always ready when you need us
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