Is light sensitivity normal after YAG laser capsulotomy?

What's normal

Your pupil was deliberately dilated so the ophthalmologist could see and aim at the capsule, and a dilated pupil lets in far more light than usual. That is why daylight feels punishing on the way home. The AAO describes dilating drops as part of the standard procedure. This kind of light sensitivity is temporary and typically eases over several hours as the drops wear off. Sunglasses help.

A second source of light sensitivity is mild inflammation inside the eye after the laser. The AAO's clinical guidance notes that steroid drops are sometimes used after treatment depending on inflammation, and the AAO patient page notes you may need eye drop medicine for a few days. Mild sensitivity in that first day or two, without pain, is a common part of settling down.

Strongest in the first several hours while dilated, usually much better by the next day.

When it stops being normal

Light sensitivity that gets worse over days rather than better, or that comes with real pain, deep redness, or falling vision, should be checked. Those can point to significant inflammation or a pressure problem rather than leftover dilation, and the AAO's clinical guidance describes eye pressure being monitored at 1 to 4 hours and again about a week after treatment for good reason.

Light sensitivity paired with flashes of light, a burst of new floaters, or a shadow or curtain in your vision is a same-day call. The AAO says a detached retina has to be examined by an ophthalmologist right away.