Can Cataracts Come Back?

Do Cataracts Return?

Since cataracts are part of the natural aging process, most people will develop them at some point in their lives. With cataracts, the lens inside the eye becomes cloudy and opaque, which decreases vision. If a cataract is not removed via cataract surgery, the process can eventually lead to vision loss.  

After cataract surgery, your vision will be crisp and clear again — colors can even be brighter and truer. However, sometimes your newfound crystal-clear vision can start to fade again, which may make you assume that your cataracts have returned. Rest assured though, the reason for your decreased vision is not a return of cataracts.  

Can Cataracts Come Back? 

Cataract surgery is the removal of the eye’s natural lens and the implantation of a synthetic lens. A synthetic lens will not opacify the same way that a natural lens will which means cataracts cannot come back. 

However, you may develop PCO, or posterior capsular opacification, a thickening of the membrane behind the synthetic lens that causes a clouding of your vision. The symptoms of PCO are very similar to those of cataracts: 

• Decrease in vision 
• Increased glare, especially at night 
• Needing more light to read 
• Haloes around lights 

Fortunately, treating PCO is fairly simple and can be done as an out-patient laser treatment. An ophthalmologist will perform a procedure called a Yag Laser Capsulotomy. This procedure is virtually painless and takes only a few moments to perform.  

The side effects are minimal – the biggest risk is an increase in floaters which is often temporary. There is a small risk of a spike in eye pressure, macular edema, and retinal detachment — your ophthalmologist will likely have you wait in the office for a short period of time to monitor your eye after the procedure.  

One way to track vision changes is by using the VisionCheck from Eyeque. Our smartphone-compatible device will actually measure your refractive error and generate EyeGlass Numbers that you can use to order new glasses online. If you notice that your vision is worsening after cataract surgery, you should discuss this with your eye doctor.