Capsular bag distension after optic capture of a sulcus-fixated intraocular lens

Capsular bag distension from occlusion of the circular anterior capsule opening by the intraocular lens (IOL) optic is a rare complication of capsulorhexis. The nature and source of fluid remain unclear. We report a case of capsular bag distension in an eye with an optic-captured, all-poly(methyl methacrylate), sulcus-fixated IOL. The fluid behind the IOL optic was visible on the first postoperative day and resolved spontaneously by the sixth postoperative week. We believe that retained viscoelastic material in the capsular bag was a major contributor to the fluid.