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What Is a YAG Iridoplasty?

YAG iridoplasty is a laser treatment that places small burns on the outer iris. The spots tighten the iris tissue and pull it away from the drainage angle. This can help open a narrow angle and lower the chance of angle-closure problems. An eye doctor uses exam findings to decide if iridoplasty fits the situation.

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What Is a YAG Iridoplasty?

YAG iridoplasty is a laser treatment that places small burns on the outer iris. The spots tighten the iris tissue and pull it away from the drainage angle. This can help open a narrow angle and lower the chance of angle-closure problems. An eye doctor uses exam findings to decide if iridoplasty fits the situation.

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Why Is YAG Iridoplasty Done?

Iridoplasty is used when the drainage angle stays narrow and eye pressure risk stays high. It is often discussed for plateau iris or persistent narrow angles after a laser iridotomy. The goal is to widen the angle so fluid drains better. Some people get it as part of urgent treatment during an angle-closure episode.

What Happens During YAG Iridoplasty?

Numbing drops go in first, and a special contact lens rests on the eye. The laser places a series of small spots around the outer iris. The session is usually short, and a pressure check often follows. Eye drops for inflammation or pressure can be prescribed after the visit.

What Are Side Effects After Treatment?

Mild redness, light sensitivity, and a scratchy feeling can happen for a day or two. Vision can look blurry right after the laser, especially if dilating drops were used. A pressure spike can happen soon after treatment, so follow-up checks matter. Use any prescribed drops as directed and report new symptoms.

What Are Risks and Warning Signs?

Risks include inflammation, a temporary pressure rise, and rare damage to nearby eye structures. Call right away for severe pain, nausea, sudden vision drop, or a new rainbow halo around lights. These signs can point to dangerous eye pressure or other urgent issues. Fast care protects vision.

FAQs on YAG Iridoplasty

Is Iridoplasty the Same as Laser Iridotomy?

No. Laser iridotomy makes a small hole in the iris to relieve pupil block. Iridoplasty uses laser spots to tighten the outer iris and open the angle. An eye doctor can explain why one, or both, is used.

Does YAG Iridoplasty Hurt?

Numbing drops limit pain during the procedure. Some people feel pressure or a brief sting with each laser spot. Mild soreness after the visit is common and often short-lived.

How Soon Can Eye Pressure Change After Iridoplasty?

Pressure can change the same day, but the timeline depends on the reason for treatment. A follow-up visit measures pressure and checks the angle. Keep taking any glaucoma drops unless an eye doctor says to stop.

Can YAG Iridoplasty Be Repeated?

Yes, repeat treatment is sometimes used if the angle stays narrow. The decision depends on exam findings and pressure readings over time. Ask an eye doctor what to expect in a follow-up plan.

References

Iridoplasty. EyeWiki. https://eyewiki.org/Iridoplasty. Date Accessed February 6, 2026.

Plateau Iris. EyeWiki. https://eyewiki.org/Plateau_Iris. Date Accessed February 6, 2026.

Laser Peripheral Iridotomy. EyeWiki. https://eyewiki.org/Laser_Peripheral_Iridotomy. Date Accessed February 6, 2026.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/angle-closure-glaucoma. Date Accessed February 6, 2026.

Iridoplasty for plateau iris syndrome: a systematic review. BMJ Open Ophthalmology (PubMed). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31592025/. Date Accessed February 6, 2026.