What is a common complication of cataract surgery?

Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is the most prevalent complication following cataract surgery. This condition occurs when the thin membrane that holds the lens in place, known as the posterior capsule, becomes cloudy after the surgery, leading to a return of vision impairment similar to that of the original cataract. PCO can develop because the remaining lens epithelial cells often proliferate and grow on the capsule post-surgery, obscuring vision.

Patients may not experience symptoms of PCO until several months or even years following their cataract surgery. Fortunately, PCO can be effectively treated with a simple outpatient procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy, wherein a laser is used to create an opening in the cloudy capsule, restoring clear vision.

While increased intraocular pressure, corneal scarring, and retinal detachment are known complications associated with cataract surgery, they are considerably less common than PCO. Increased intraocular pressure can occur shortly after surgery due to inflammation or other factors, but it usually resolves. Corneal scarring is rare and often related to pre-existing conditions. Retinal detachment is a serious but infrequent complication, being more prevalent in patients with specific risk factors, such as high myopia or prior retinal issues.