Can Cataract Surgery Be Redone?

Cataract surgery is generally considered an irreversible procedure, as the cloudy natural lens causing the cataract is removed and replaced with an artificial lens implant. Once the cataract is removed, it does not grow back. However, there are rare instances when a further operation may be necessary. These instances include problems with the lens implant from the original procedure, such as damage, dislocation, or patient dissatisfaction. In such cases, the surgeon can replace or reposition the implant. Additionally, patients may develop a ‘secondary cataract’ in the months or years following cataract surgery, which can be treated with a painless, non-invasive laser procedure called a YAG capsulotomy.

The need to redo a cataract surgery is infrequent, and there are risks associated with replacing an IOL, as with any other surgery. Some effective alternatives to replacement surgery include glasses or contact lenses, laser vision correction, and limbal relaxing incision. Before performing cataract surgery, the surgeon will take measurements from the eye, and these measurements are influenced by many factors, including eyeball length, corneal curvature, and the position of the cataract as well as the new lens.

In some cases, it may be necessary to fine-tune the implanted lenses after cataract surgery. This involves a short operation in which a second lens implant, called a piggyback implant, is inserted on top of the already existing lens implant to modify its toricity or power. This allows for the adjustment of the focus of the eye and the conversion of a lens implant from a monofocal to a multifocal.  In addition, the lens can be exchanged or laser vision correction can be utilized to treat any residual prescription.  If only astigmatism remains, a limbal relaxing incision can be performed.

In conclusion, while cataract surgery is generally irreversible, there are rare instances when it may need to be redone due to problems with the original lens implant or the development of a secondary cataract. Patients considering any additional procedures or experiencing issues after cataract surgery should consult their eye surgeon for a thorough evaluation and discussion of their options.