Can cataracts come back?

Cataracts are a common eye condition that causes clouding of the natural lens, leading to blurred vision and, in some cases, significant vision loss. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a highly successful procedure that removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL), restoring sharp, bright vision. But a common concern among patients is: Can cataracts come back after surgery?

At Mitry Vision, we believe in providing clear, straightforward answers to all your eye health questions. In this blog, we’ll explore whether cataracts can return, what can happen after surgery, and how you can maintain your vision long-term.

Do cataracts grow back after surgery?

The short answer is no, cataracts cannot come back after surgery. This is because the cataract is not an illness that regenerates—it is a condition caused by the clouding of the natural lens in your eye. During cataract surgery, this lens is completely removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Since the artificial lens does not age or develop cloudiness like the natural lens, cataracts cannot grow back.

However, some patients may experience vision changes months or even years after surgery that feel like a cataract is returning. This is not a new cataract but is often due to a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO).

What is posterior capsule opacification (PCO)?

PCO, sometimes referred to as a "secondary cataract," is a common condition that can occur after cataract surgery. Here’s what you need to know:

• PCO is NOT a new cataract but rather a clouding of the capsular bag that holds the new artificial lens in place
• It develops when cells remaining from the original lens begin to grow on the posterior capsule, causing blurred vision similar to cataract symptoms
• PCO can develop months or even years after surgery, though not everyone experiences it.

Symptoms of posterior capsule opacification

If you had clear vision after cataract surgery but later notice:

• Blurred or hazy vision
• Increased glare and sensitivity to light
• Difficulty reading or seeing details clearly
• A feeling that your cataract is "coming back".

…it’s possible you have PCO, which is easily treatable.

How is posterior capsule opacification treated?

The good news is that PCO is simple to fix with a quick and painless procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy. Here’s how it works:

1. A laser creates a small opening in the clouded capsule, allowing light to pass through clearly
2. The procedure takes just a few minutes and does not require stitches or a hospital stay
3. Most patients notice an immediate improvement in vision with full recovery within 24 to 48 hours.

Once treated, PCO does not return, and your vision remains stable long-term.

What can you do to prevent vision problems after cataract surgery?

While cataracts cannot come back, there are steps you can take to protect your vision after surgery:

1. Attend all follow-up appointments – Regular eye exams help detect any issues early.
2. Protect your eyes from UV light – Wear sunglasses with UV protection to reduce the risk of long-term eye damage.
3. Maintain good eye health – Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3s, and vitamins to support long-term vision.
4. Manage other eye conditions – If you have glaucoma, diabetes, or dry eyes, keeping them under control will help preserve your vision.
5. Report any vision changes – If you notice blurred vision, glare, or halos around lights, contact your eye specialist promptly.

Choosing the right surgeon for long-term vision success

To ensure the best possible outcome from your cataract surgery, choosing an experienced and highly skilled surgeon is key. Dr Danny Mitry at Mitry Vision is one of London’s leading cataract specialists, known for:

• Using the latest advanced technology to ensure precision and long-term results
• Offering premium intraocular lenses (IOLs), including multifocal and toric lenses for astigmatism correction
• Providing world-class post-surgical care to monitor and maintain optimal vision.

Do you need cataract surgery? Find out today!

If you are experiencing cloudy vision or believe you may have cataracts, don’t wait to take action. The best way to determine if cataract surgery is right for you is to take our free suitability self-test.