Glare After LASIK: Eye Surgery Side Effects

A woman with glare around an eye

The team at our West Orange eye care center believes in proper patient care and education. When it comes to LASIK surgery to improve vision, that means giving our patients all the information they need with regard to side effects, risks, and the nature of post-op recovery.

With that in mind, we would like to go over the issue of glare. It’s a common side effect after LASIK, yet patients can sometimes be alarmed by its presence. We’re here to tell you it’s normal and part of the healing process.

How LASIK Is Performed

During LASIK surgery, a laser is used to carefully reshape a person’s cornea (the thin, transparent frontal layer of the eye). This is accomplished through the creation of a thin flap at the topmost layer of the cornea, which is known as the epithelium. By altering the shape of the cornea, light can pass through the eye properly, focusing on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye.

LASIK is performed to reduce or eliminate the need for corrective lenses when people suffer from refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

Reasons Why Glare Occurs After LASIK

Glare is one of the most common side effects after LASIK is performed. As the eyes heal from LASIK, it can take a little bit of time before you adjust to the changes in your vision. Bright lights, shiny objects, and even bright colors can trigger glare and light sensitivity simply by looking at them.

Three common reasons for glare and other post-op side effects include:

• Enlarged pupils
• Residual refractive error
• Issues with the corneal flap

How Serious Can Post-op Glare Be?

Glare can seem relatively serious early on as patients are not accustomed to changes in their vision prompted by LASIK. That said, glare is only a temporary side effect, and patients should notice steady improvement of their vision quality as they continue to recover from surgery.

How Long Will the Glare Last?

Post-op glare typically lasts for about two to three weeks. LASIK patients will notice a significant reduction in glare and other side effect in the first week of recovery. Some residual amount of glare can persist for a few weeks after surgery, and sometimes longer. That said, long-term or permanent problems with glare after LASIK are very rare.

Tips for Dealing with Post-op Glare

Whenever you’re outdoors, be sure to wear sunglasses and a hat with a brim. This will protect your sensitive eyes from the sun, and this will also reduce the amount of glare you experience. Be cautious about driving at night as issues with glare and contrast sensitivity can lead to dangerous driving conditions.

Ultimately, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care very closely. This will help prevent complications and ensure quick and optimal recovery after surgery.

Vision Quality in the Months Ahead

In the months after LASIK, patients will have overcome the various post-op side effects, experiencing exceptional vision quality. No longer will patients have to rely on glasses and contact to enjoy the world around them.

Contact Laser Vision Correction Center of New Jersey

For more information about LASIK and how it can help you experience clear vision, be sure to contact our advanced eye care and vision center today. The team at Laser Vision Correction Center of New Jersey will help you see clearly and experience excellent vision.