- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: January 20, 2025
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic in London, we understand that patients undergoing lens replacement surgery often have questions about potential side effects, particularly glare and halos. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore these visual phenomena, their causes, and what you can expect during your recovery process.
Understanding Glare and Halos
Before delving into how lens replacement surgery might affect your vision, it’s essential to understand what glare and halos are:
- Glare: This refers to difficulty seeing in the presence of bright light, such as oncoming headlights while driving at night.
- Halos: These are rings of light that appear to surround bright objects, especially noticeable in low-light conditions.
Both visual disturbances can be bothersome, but they’re often a normal part of the healing process after lens replacement surgery.
Why Do Glare and Halos Occur After Lens Replacement Surgery?
Lens replacement surgery involves removing your eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). While this procedure can significantly improve your vision, it can also temporarily affect how your eye processes light, leading to glare and halos.
These visual phenomena are particularly common in the early stages of recovery and are often more noticeable in low-light conditions or at night.
How Long Do Halos Last After Lens Replacement?
One of the most common questions we receive at our London eye clinic is, “How long do halos last after lens replacement?” The duration can vary from patient to patient, but typically:
- Most patients experience a reduction in halos within the first few weeks after surgery.
- For some, it may take up to 3-6 months for halos to significantly diminish.
- In rare cases, some degree of halos may persist longer, especially with certain types of premium lenses.
It’s important to note that the presence of halos doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem with your surgery. In fact, they can be a sign that your eye is in the recovery process.
How Long Does Glare Last After Lens Replacement?
Similarly, patients often ask, “How long does glare last after lens replacement?” The timeline for glare reduction is often like that of halos:
- Many patients notice a significant reduction in glare within the first month after surgery.
- For others, it may take up to 3-6 months for glare to subside to a comfortable level.
- Some patients, particularly those with premium lenses, may continue to experience some degree of glare, especially in bright light conditions.
Premium Lenses and Glare and Halos
At Blue Fin Vision®, we offer premium lens options for lens replacement surgery. While these advanced lenses can provide superior visual outcomes, it’s important to understand their relationship with glare and halos:
- Premium lenses, including enhanced monofocal, extended depth of focus (EDOF), and trifocal IOLs, can cause some degree of glare and halos in all patients.
- Unlike with standard lenses, the glare and halos associated with premium lenses do not typically diminish or disappear over time.
- However, most patients gradually learn to ignore these visual phenomena, and they become less noticeable in day-to-day life.
Managing Expectations with Premium Lenses
If you’re considering premium lenses for your lens replacement surgery, it’s crucial to have realistic expectations:
- Understand that some degree of glare and halos will likely be present after surgery.
- Be prepared for an adaptation period as you learn to ignore these visual phenomena.
- Recognise that the benefits of premium lenses, such as reduced dependence on glasses, often outweigh these side effects for most patients.
Coping Strategies for Glare and Halos
While waiting for glare and halos to subside, there are several strategies you can employ to manage these visual disturbances:
- Use anti-glare glasses: These can help reduce glare, especially when driving at night.
- Avoid looking directly at bright lights: This can help minimise the appearance of halos.
- Ensure proper lighting: Good lighting can help reduce the contrast that makes glare and halos more noticeable.
- Be patient: Remember that your eyes need time to adjust to the new lenses.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While some degree of glare and halos is normal after lens replacement surgery, there are instances when you should consult with your eye surgeon:
- If glare or halos are severely impacting your daily activities
- If you experience a sudden increase in glare or halos after the initial recovery period
- If you have any concerns about your vision or recovery process
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic in London, we’re always here to address your concerns and ensure your recovery is progressing as expected.
The Benefits of Lens Replacement Surgery
Despite the potential for temporary glare and halos, lens replacement surgery offers significant benefits:
- Improved vision: Many patients experience clearer vision across multiple distances.
- Reduced dependence on glasses: Especially with premium lenses, you may find you need glasses less often or not at all.
- Prevention of cataracts: By replacing your natural lens, you eliminate the possibility of developing cataracts in the future.
Conclusion: A Brighter Future Awaits
Lens replacement surgery at Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic can be a life-changing procedure, offering the potential for clearer, sharper vision. While glare and halos are common temporary side effects, they’re often a small price to pay for the long-term benefits of improved vision.
Our expert team in London is committed to providing you with the highest standard of care throughout your lens replacement journey. We’ll work closely with you to choose the best lens option for your needs, manage your expectations, and support you through the recovery process.
If you’re considering lens replacement surgery and want to learn more about managing potential side effects like glare and halos, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our London clinic. Let us help you take the first step towards a clearer, brighter future.
Remember, at Blue Fin Vision®, your vision is our priority. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcomes from your lens replacement surgery.
