The natural cataract does not grow back after it has been removed. However, some patients develop clouding of the capsule behind the intraocular lens, called posterior capsule opacification (PCO).
What is posterior capsule opacification?
The lens capsule remains in the eye to support the IOL. Cells can proliferate on the capsule and make the visual axis cloudy, sometimes months or years after surgery.
What symptoms can PCO cause?
Symptoms can resemble the original cataract, including hazy vision, glare, and reduced visual quality.
How is PCO treated?
When treatment is appropriate, a YAG laser capsulotomy creates an opening in the cloudy capsule. Your ophthalmologist can determine whether PCO is responsible for your symptoms.