Can Cataract Grow Back After Surgery? The Truth About Cataract Removal

Cataract surgery is one of the most successful and commonly performed procedures in modern medicine. Yet, a common myth persists: Can cataracts grow back after surgery? If you’ve heard this concern, you’re not alone. Let’s clear up the confusion.

Do Cataracts Grow Back?

The short answer is no. Once a cataract is removed, it cannot return.

During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens is completely removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Since the cataract is part of the natural lens, and that lens is permanently removed, there is no way for a cataract to grow back.

So why do some people experience vision issues after surgery?

Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO): The Common Misconception

While cataracts don’t regrow, some patients develop a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which can cause blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing in low light—similar to cataract symptoms.

PCO occurs when the thin membrane (capsule) that originally held the natural lens becomes cloudy. This can develop months or even years after cataract surgery. While it may feel like a cataract is returning, it’s actually a separate, easily treatable condition.

How Is PCO Treated?

If you experience vision cloudiness after cataract surgery, your eye doctor may recommend a procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy.

What Is YAG Laser Capsulotomy?

• A quick, in-office laser procedure
• Creates a small opening in the cloudy capsule, allowing light to pass through clearly
• Takes only a few minutes and is completely painless—no incisions needed
• Vision improvement is almost immediate, with permanent results

Once you’ve had a YAG laser capsulotomy, the issue does not recur, so you won’t have to worry about PCO affecting your vision again.

Enjoy Lasting Clarity After Cataract Surgery

If you or a loved one is considering cataract surgery, rest assured that once a cataract is removed, it will never return. While PCO can develop, it is easily corrected with a simple laser treatment.

Have Questions About Cataract Surgery?

If you’d like to learn more about cataract surgery or post-surgery vision care, our team is here to help.

Vision Source of Newport
1823 Crowe Ln.
Newport, TN 37821
(865) 584-0905
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