Why does my vision seem worse two years after cataract surgery?
SEP 06, 2023
Question:
I had cataract surgery two years ago on my right eye but rather than improve my vision it actually seems worse to me. Could there be something wrong with the IOL?
Answer:
It is unlikely that something is wrong with the IOL. Many factors can decrease vision after cataract surgery. A common finding is a posterior capsule opacity which is essentially a build-up of various proteins on the back side of your new lens implant. This can be cleared in the office with a laser known as a YAG capsulotomy. Another common finding is refractive error that needs to be corrected with glasses. Dry eye syndrome is another common finding that can change vision after cataract surgery. Corneal and retinal diseases should also be ruled out as certain corneal conditions can worsen after cataract surgery (like Fuchs' corneal dystrophy) and some retinal diseases can progress after cataract surgery such as macular degeneration or macular edema. An ophthalmologist should be able to determine whether any of these findings are present.
This question was originally answered on Mar. 10, 2014.