A Complete Guide by AIY Eye Care, Ghaziabad

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most frequently performed eye surgeries in the world, with millions of people regaining clear vision every year. With today’s advanced techniques, the procedure is quick, painless, and highly successful. Yet, like any medical procedure, cataract surgery may involve certain complications—most of which are minor, treatable, and temporary.

At AIY Eye Care, Ghaziabad, our goal is not only to provide world-class treatment but also to ensure that patients fully understand what to expect before and after their cataract surgery. This helps reduce anxiety, improves recovery, and empowers individuals to take the best care of their eyes.

In this blog, we answer a common question patients ask:

“What is the most common complication of cataract surgery?”

And we go far beyond that—exploring causes, symptoms, prevention tips, and what you can do to protect your vision.

Understanding Cataract Surgery: A Brief Overview

A cataract forms when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurred vision, glare, and difficulty with daily activities. During cataract surgery, the clouded lens is removed and replaced with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

At AIY Eye Care, we use advanced microsurgical techniques and premium IOLs that ensure sharper, brighter, and more natural vision.

Recovery is usually smooth, and most patients return to normal activities within a few days.

⭐ The Most Common Complication: Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO)

The answer is Posterior Capsule Opacification, also known as “secondary cataract.”

Why It Happens

During cataract surgery, the surgeon removes the cloudy lens but keeps the natural lens capsule intact to support the new artificial lens. Over time, lens epithelial cells may grow on this capsule, causing it to thicken or become cloudy.

This cloudiness leads to blurred or hazy vision—similar to the symptoms experienced before the cataract was removed.

How Common Is It?

PCO occurs in 20%–40% of patients within months to a few years after the surgery. The good news?
It is not dangerous, and it is easily treatable.

Symptoms of Posterior Capsule Opacification

If you experience PCO, you may notice:

• Blurry or foggy vision

• Increased glare, especially at night

• Difficulty reading

• Reduced brightness or contrast

• Colors appearing dull

• Halos around lights

These symptoms may seem like the cataract has returned—but cataracts do not come back.
PCO is simply a cloudy membrane behind the lens.

Treatment for PCO: A Quick, Painless Laser Procedure

The standard treatment is YAG Laser Capsulotomy.

What Happens During the Procedure?

• It takes 5–10 minutes

• It is non-invasive

• There is no pain

• No injections or stitches

• Vision improves almost immediately

The laser creates a tiny opening in the cloudy capsule so that light can reach the retina clearly again.

At AIY Eye Care, Ghaziabad, we use advanced YAG laser technology that ensures precision, safety, and fast recovery.

Other Rare Complications of Cataract Surgery

While PCO is the most common, it is also the least harmful and most treatable.
Below are some rare complications patients sometimes worry about:

1. Dry Eyes After Surgery

Temporary dryness is common but usually improves within days or weeks.

Symptoms: irritation, burning, foreign-body sensation
Solution: lubricating eye drops, avoiding screen strain

2. Inflammation or Swelling

A small amount of inflammation is normal, but excessive inflammation can cause blurry vision.

Treatment: prescribed anti-inflammatory drops

3. Infection (Endophthalmitis)

Very rare (occurs in less than 0.1% cases), but serious.

Signs: severe pain, sudden vision loss, swelling
Solution: immediate medical attention; early treatment leads to excellent recovery

4. Increased Eye Pressure

Can occur temporarily after surgery.

Management: eye drops prescribed by your doctor

5. Retinal Detachment (Very Rare)

More common in high myopia patients.

Symptoms: flashes of light, floaters, curtain-like shadow
Action: urgent evaluation needed

6. Dislocation of the Artificial Lens

Extremely rare but treatable with minor surgical correction.

🌟 Why AIY Eye Care, Ghaziabad Is a Trusted Centre for Cataract Surgery

Choosing an experienced eye specialist makes all the difference in your vision outcome.
At AIY Eye Care, we offer:

• Advanced Phacoemulsification & Micro-incision Cataract Surgery

• Latest Intraocular Lens (IOL) options – Monofocal, Multifocal, Toric

• State-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical equipment

• Experienced surgeons with high success rates

• Affordable and transparent treatment plans

• Personalized care and follow-up support

Our priority is providing safe, comfortable, and smooth cataract care for every patient.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Complications

Here are expert tips from AIY Eye Care:

✔ Follow all prescribed eye drops

These prevent infection and inflammation.

✔ Avoid rubbing or pressing your eyes

This can disturb healing.

✔ Use protective eyewear when outdoors

Dust and sunlight can irritate healing eyes.

✔ Avoid heavy lifting & bending for a week

Prevents pressure changes within the eye.

✔ Attend all follow-up visits

Your doctor checks recovery and vision clarity.

When Should You Contact Your Eye Specialist?

Seek help immediately if you experience:

• Persistent or sudden decrease in vision

• Severe pain

• Excessive redness

• Flashes or floaters

• Light sensitivity that worsens

Prompt care ensures the best outcome.

⭐ Final Thoughts: Cataract Surgery Is Safe—And Complications Are Rare

Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) is the most common and easiest-to-treat complication after cataract surgery.
With modern treatment options like YAG laser capsulotomy, you can restore clear vision within minutes.

At AIY Eye Care, Ghaziabad, we ensure you experience:

• Safe surgery

• Smooth recovery

• Clear vision

• Comprehensive post-care support

If you or your loved ones are planning cataract surgery, advanced consultation at AIY Eye Care can guide you toward the best treatment option.