Table of Contents

Can cataracts grow back after surgery? Myths, facts, and what patients should know

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective procedures performed in modern medicine. Millions of people undergo this surgery each year, and for most, it dramatically improves vision and quality of life.

One of the most common questions patients ask after surgery is: “Can cataracts grow back after surgery?”

The short answer is no, but there are important details to understand. Let’s explore the myths, facts, and what every patient should know about vision changes after cataract surgery.

Understanding cataracts

A cataract occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy. This clouding scatters light and prevents sharp, clear vision. Common symptoms include:

Blurry or hazy vision.
Increased glare, especially at night.
Faded colors.
Difficulty reading or recognizing faces.

Cataracts typically develop slowly with age, but they can also result from:

Eye injuries.
Diabetes
Certain medications. (like steroids)
Excessive UV exposure.
Smoking.

What happens during cataract surgery?

During surgery, the cloudy natural lens is carefully removed and replaced with a clear, artificial lens implant, called an intraocular lens (IOL). This new lens is designed to last a lifetime.

Because the natural lens is permanently removed cataracts cannot “grow back” after surgery.

This is a critical fact that dispels one of the biggest myths about cataract treatment.

Myth vs. Fact: Do cataracts return?

Myth:

“Cataracts can come back years after surgery.”

Fact:

Cataracts themselves cannot return. The artificial intraocular lens implanted in your eye does not become cloudy like your natural lens did.

However, patients can experience symptoms of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) that feels like a cataract coming back.

Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO): The real cause of cloudy vision after surgery

Although cataracts don’t return, some patients notice their vision becoming cloudy again months or even years after surgery.

This condition is called Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO).

Here’s why it happens:

When your cataract is removed, the surgeon leaves behind a thin, transparent “capsule” that originally held your natural lens.
The artificial lens is placed inside this capsule to keep it stable.
Over time, in some patients, cells on the capsule can grow and cause it to thicken or become cloudy.
This cloudiness scatters light, leading to blurred or hazy vision—similar to cataract symptoms.

In simple terms: PCO is not a cataract growing back, but a natural change in the capsule behind the lens implant.

Symptoms of Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO)

Posterior Capsule Opacification develops gradually, and many patients may not notice the changes at first. Over time, however, it can begin to interfere with daily activities and create symptoms that feel very similar to cataracts. The main symptoms include:

Blurred or cloudy vision

Patients often describe their vision as if they are looking through a smudged or foggy window. Fine details, such as text on a page or distant road signs, may become more difficult to see. This blurriness can progress slowly and affect both near and distance vision.

Increased glare and light sensitivity

Bright lights, car headlights, or sunlight can feel unusually harsh. Many patients report a “halo” or “starburst” effect around lights, which becomes especially troublesome while driving at night. This increased glare is one of the most common and frustrating symptoms of PCO.

Difficulty with reading and close work

Even with reading glasses, patients may find it harder to focus on small print or detailed tasks like sewing, using a computer, or reading menus in dim lighting. Letters or objects may appear hazy, causing eye strain or headaches with prolonged effort.

Since these symptoms are similar to cataracts, many patients mistakenly believe their cataracts have returned.

How is PCO treated?

The treatment for PCO is simple, safe, and quick.

It’s called a YAG Laser Capsulotomy.

This is an outpatient procedure that usually takes only a few minutes.
The laser creates a small opening in the cloudy capsule, allowing light to pass through normally again.
Vision often improves immediately or within a day.
The procedure is painless and does not require stitches or a repeat of cataract surgery.

How common is PCO?

Studies suggest that 20–30% of patients may develop PCO within 2–5 years after cataract surgery.
Risk varies based on factors such as age, lens type, and healing response.
Children and younger patients tend to develop it more often than older adults.

Preventing and Managing PCO

While PCO cannot always be prevented, certain steps may reduce its risk or help maintain clear vision after surgery:

Advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs): Modern lens designs lower the chance of capsule clouding.
Regular follow-ups: Routine check-ups allow early detection and timely treatment.
Eye protection: Wearing sunglasses to block UV rays and maintaining overall eye health can help.
Managing health conditions: Keeping diabetes, hypertension, and other systemic conditions under control supports eye recovery.

Conclusion

Cataracts do not grow back after surgery — but some patients may experience cloudy vision later due to Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO), a condition that is easily treatable with a quick laser procedure. At Clarity Eye Surgeons, we are dedicated to helping patients in Canberra and surrounding areas enjoy clear, lasting vision through advanced cataract care and ongoing eye health support. Book your cataract consultation today and take the first step toward brighter, sharper vision.

Author bio

Dr Parth Shah is a leading ophthalmologist in Canberra, specialising in cataract surgery. With extensive training and experience, he is renowned for his expertise in the field. Dr Shah is dedicated not only to performing successful surgeries but also to patient education. His compassionate approach, combined with technical proficiency, has earned him the trust and gratitude of countless patients. He is a true advocate for eye health and a trusted name in the Canberra ophthalmology community.

FAQs

How long does vision usually stay clear after cataract surgery?

Most patients enjoy long-term clear vision, but some may experience cloudiness later due to Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO). With treatment, vision clarity is typically restored permanently.

Can both eyes develop PCO, or only the operated eye?

Yes, if you’ve had cataract surgery in both eyes, PCO can occur in either or both eyes over time.

Is PCO more common in certain people?

Yes, younger patients, people with diabetes, and those with high levels of post-surgery inflammation have a higher risk of developing PCO.

Does YAG laser treatment for PCO need to be repeated?

In most cases, no. Once the cloudy capsule is opened with the YAG laser, the results are permanent.

Is the YAG laser procedure safe? Are there any risks?

The YAG laser is very safe and effective. Rare risks include temporary eye pressure rise, inflammation, floaters, or in very rare cases, retinal detachment.

Can PCO affect the results of premium intraocular lenses (multifocal or toric)?

Yes, PCO can reduce the effectiveness of premium lenses by causing glare and blurriness, but YAG laser treatment restores their full benefit.

Will my glasses prescription change after PCO treatment?

Often, once the cloudiness is cleared, vision improves, and your glasses prescription may feel more accurate again. Sometimes, a minor adjustment may still be needed.