Cloudy and blurred vision after cataract surgery

[Geroc]

4 weeks ago I had cataract surgery on my right eye.  During surgery the posterior lens capsule ruptured and the surgeon implanted an IOL.  I believe he stated the IOL is implanted between the iris and the cornea.  After 4 weeks the right eye is still cloudy and blurry.  The surgeon tells me that it should clear up but will take more time to heal.  6 weeks ago I had cataract surgery on my left eye without any complications.  When I close my right eye I have almost perfect vision.  However, when I open my right eye, the vision is not as clear.  Whenever I close my left eye, vision is cloudy and blurry.  I'm also told by the surgeon that I have a small hole in my right eye cornea.  He stated that he could close the hole with a stitch.  If he corrects the cornea, will that eliminate the cloudy and blurred vision?  

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

That question needs to be answered exclusively by your surgeon/consultants.   JCH MD

[Geroc]

You were right in your reply to my first question about the hole in my cornea.  During my 5th week postop exam my doctor verified that my iris has a tear which has created another pupil (small black dot next to the pupil) and is causing some glare, haziness, and double vision.  He also verified that some residual cataract debris from the original surgery is obstructing the implanted IOL which is also contributing to the cloudy and hazy vison.  He said the tear in the iris could be repaired by stitching during corrective surgery.  He also said that he could remove the residual cataract debris by using a laser.   I am having a second opinion next week to validate his finding and solution.  If the second opinion agrees on both the finding and solution, what are the potential complications that could arise during the corrective surgery?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Your question cannot be answered with certainty as it requires a real eye examination. A hole in the iris is vague, maybe he means a wound leak. I would suggest you get a second opinion. If you have a lot of rapport and confidence ask your surgeon to refer you to a Eye MD who he/she respects and would find the opinion helpful. Or you can go to www.geteyesmart.org and find a Eye MD surgeon near you.

JCHMD