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- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: December 15, 2024
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic on London’s prestigious Harley Street, we understand that patients considering laser eye surgery, such as LASIK, often have questions about potential side effects. Two common visual phenomena that patients may experience post-surgery are glare and halos. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what causes these effects, how long they typically last, and what you can do to manage them during your recovery.
Understanding Glare and Halos
What are Glare and Halos?
Glare refers to the experience of lights appearing brighter or more intense than normal. This can cause discomfort and make it difficult to see clearly, especially in low-light conditions.
Halos are rings of light that appear to surround bright light sources, such as headlights or streetlamps. They can create a hazy or blurred effect around these light sources.
Both visual phenomena are common side effects following laser eye surgery procedures like LASIK.
Causes of Glare and Halos after Laser Eye Surgery
Several factors contribute to the occurrence of glare and halos post-surgery:
- Corneal Healing
During LASIK and other laser eye surgeries, the cornea is reshaped to correct refractive errors. As the cornea heals, it can cause temporary changes in how light is refracted into the eye, leading to glare and halos.
- Corneal Swelling
Some swelling of the cornea is normal after surgery. This swelling can affect how light enters the eye, causing visual disturbances like glare and halos.
- Pupil Size
Patients with larger pupils may be more prone to experiencing glare and halos, especially in low-light conditions when the pupil dilates beyond the area of the cornea that was treated.
- Residual Refractive Error
If the surgery doesn’t fully correct the refractive error, it can result in visual disturbances, including glare and halos.
- Dry Eyes
Post-operative dry eye is common and can affect the quality of vision, potentially contributing to glare and halo effects.
How Long Will Glare and Halos Last?
One of the most common questions we receive at our London eye clinic is, “How long will I have glare and halos after laser eye surgery?” The answer can vary from patient to patient, but here’s what you can generally expect:
- Immediate Post-op Period: Glare and halos are most noticeable in the first few days to weeks after surgery.
- First Month: Most patients see a significant reduction in these effects within the first 2-4 weeks.
- 3-6 Months: For the majority of patients, glare and halos continue to improve and often resolve completely within this timeframe.
- Beyond 6 Months: In rare cases, some patients may experience persistent glare and halos beyond six months. If this occurs, it’s important to consult with your eye surgeon for further evaluation.
It’s crucial to understand that everyone’s healing process is unique. While many patients experience a quick resolution of these side effects, others may require more time for their vision to stabilise fully.
Managing Glare and Halos During Recovery
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, we provide our London patients with comprehensive post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some strategies to help manage glare and halos:
- Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from bright light and reduce glare by wearing high-quality sunglasses when outdoors.
- Use Artificial Tears: Keeping your eyes well-lubricated can help reduce visual disturbances associated with dry eyes.
- Avoid Night Driving: If you’re experiencing significant glare and halos, it’s best to avoid driving at night until these symptoms improve.
- Adjust Lighting: Use softer, diffused lighting in your home and workplace to reduce glare from harsh light sources.
- Be Patient: Remember that these effects are usually temporary. Give your eyes time to heal and adjust to their new focusing ability.
Attend Follow-up Appointments: Regular check-ups at our Harley Street clinic allow us to monitor your progress and address any concerns promptly.
When to Seek Further Advice
While glare and halos are normal and typically temporary side effects of laser eye surgery, there are instances when you should seek additional medical advice:
- If glare and halos persist without improvement beyond 3-6 months
- If these visual disturbances significantly interfere with your daily activities
- If you experience any sudden changes in vision or new symptoms
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, we’re always here to address your concerns and provide expert care throughout your recovery journey.
Prevention and Optimisation
To minimise the risk and duration of glare and halos after laser eye surgery, we take several precautions:
Advanced Technology
At our London clinic, we use state-of-the-art laser technology that allows for precise corneal reshaping, reducing the likelihood of irregular healing that can contribute to glare and halos.
Comprehensive Pre-operative Assessment
Our thorough pre-operative evaluations include detailed corneal mapping and pupil size measurements to identify patients who may be at higher risk for post-operative visual disturbances.
Customised Treatment Plans
We tailor each procedure to the individual patient’s needs, considering factors like pupil size and corneal thickness to optimise visual outcomes.
Expert Surgical Technique
Our experienced surgeons use advanced techniques to minimise trauma to the eye and promote smooth, even healing of the cornea.
Long-term Outcomes and Patient Satisfaction
It’s important to note that while glare and halos can be bothersome in the short term, the vast majority of patients who undergo laser eye surgery at Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic in London experience excellent long-term outcomes. Many patients report that any initial visual disturbances are far outweighed by the benefits of improved vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Conclusion
Glare and halos are common temporary side effects of laser eye surgery, including LASIK. While they can be frustrating, it’s reassuring to know that for most patients, these effects diminish significantly within the first few weeks to months after surgery.
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic on Harley Street, London, we’re committed to providing exceptional care throughout your laser eye surgery journey. From your initial consultation to your final follow-up appointment, our team of expert ophthalmologists and support staff are here to ensure you achieve the best possible visual outcomes.
If you’re considering laser eye surgery and have concerns about potential side effects like glare and halos, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our London clinic. Let us help you understand your options and work towards a future of clearer, glasses-free vision.
Remember, your vision is precious. Trust the experts at Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic to provide you with world-class care and the latest in laser eye surgery technology.
