Beware of Glare: LASIK Side Effects and How to Deal with Them

The team at Maple Eye and Laser Center believes that everyone in the White Plains deserves a chance to see the world in a better light. This can often be achieved through the use of advanced laser eye surgery procedures such as LASIK.

While very effective and quite safe, LASIK does have its share of side effects, one of which is glare. Let's take a moment to consider why glare occurs and what can be done about it. First, however, it may help to discuss the LASIK procedure itself.

How LASIK Is Performed

During LASIK surgery, a laser is used to reshape the contour of the cornea, which is the transparent layer of the eye. This is done by creating a flap in the cornea's topmost central layer, which is known as the epithelium. By doing this, the passage of light through the eye is improved, ensuring proper focus on the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye necessary for visual acuity.

LASIK is an ideal treatment option for common refractive errors, meaning myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

Why Glare Occurs

Glare is one of many common side effects following LASIK surgery. After the eyes have been treated, it can take time to heal from surgery and for you to adjust to your changed vision. One of the results is glare and halo around shiny objects, bright lights, and potential issues with light sensitivity, particularly when outdoors.

The most common reasons why the glare occurs include:

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

How Serious Is the Glare?

Glare after LASIK can be somewhat alarming, but thankfully it will fade as you continue to heal. The same is true of the other side effects you will experience following LASIK.

Ways of Addressing Issues with Glare

In order to deal with glare as you recover from LASIK, it's best to wear sunglasses whenever you go outdoors. This will block out lots of the sunlight that can lead to glare as well as acute light sensitivity. It's also recommended that you wear a hat with a brim, which will further protect your eyes from direct sunlight.

It's important that patients follow all of their post-operative instructions closely to prevent complications after surgery is completed.

How Long Will the Glare Last?

The most serious issues with glare will typically last two to three weeks, with significant changes in light sensitivity after the first few days to first week. Keep in mind that some residual problems with glare and light sensitivity can persist for a few weeks, and in some cases longer. Permanent problems with glare are extremely rare.

Overall Vision Quality in the Long Run

As your eyes recover from surgery, you'll notice significant improvements in overall vision quality. While 20/20 vision is no guarantee, patients will experience a significant improvement in vision quality, allowing them to read books as well as street signs in the distance without the aid of glasses. This is what makes LASIK such a popular and attractive option to so many people.

Schedule a Consultation at Maple Eye and Laser Center

For more information about LASIK and its side effects as well as what you can do to mitigate them, be sure to contact our advanced laser eye surgery center today. The team at Maple Eye and Laser Center looks forward to seeing you at the practice.