LASIK surgery has transformed the lives of millions by improving vision and reducing dependency on glasses or contact lenses. However, some patients experience temporary side effects such as halos and starbursts, particularly in low-light conditions. These visual disturbances can be concerning but are usually part of the healing process. Understanding why they occur and how to manage them can help you navigate the post-surgery period more comfortably.
What Are Halos and Starbursts?
Halos and starbursts are common visual effects some people notice after LASIK:
- Halos appear as glowing rings around lights, making them seem blurry or diffused.
- Starbursts create radiating streaks of light that make bright sources, like headlights, appear overly intense.
These symptoms are more noticeable at Implantable collamer lens surgery night or in dim lighting, which can make driving or reading challenging.
Why Do Halos and Starbursts Occur After LASIK?
There are several reasons why you might experience these visual disturbances:
- Healing Process – The cornea needs time to recover after LASIK, and fluctuations in vision are normal in the early months.
- Pupil Size – People with naturally large pupils may experience more pronounced halos and starbursts, especially in dark environments.
- Dry Eyes – LASIK can temporarily reduce tear production, leading to dryness that affects vision clarity.
- Corneal Swelling – Mild swelling in the cornea during the healing process can cause light to scatter, creating these visual effects.
- Slight Refractive Errors – If the laser correction was slightly over- or under-done, it can lead to mild distortions in how light enters the eye.
How to Reduce Halos and Starbursts
1. Give Your Eyes Time to Adjust
Most patients notice a gradual improvement in these symptoms over the first three to six months as their vision stabilizes.
2. Use Lubricating Eye Drops
Dry eyes can make halos and starbursts worse. Using preservative-free artificial tears regularly can keep your eyes hydrated and reduce visual disturbances.
3. Minimize Night Driving
If possible, limit driving at night in the early stages of recovery. If you must drive, adjust your car’s headlights and use anti-glare glasses to reduce discomfort.
4. Consider Special Glasses
Anti-reflective or blue-light blocking glasses can help reduce glare and improve contrast, making it easier to see in low-light conditions.
5. Talk to Your Doctor About Medications
Certain prescription eye drops can help reduce pupil size at night, which may decrease halos and starbursts. However, these should only be used under medical guidance.
6. Explore LASIK Enhancements
If halos and starbursts persist beyond six months and significantly impact your daily life, your doctor may suggest a LASIK enhancement procedure to fine-tune your vision.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While these symptoms are typically temporary, contact your ophthalmologist if:
- Halos and starbursts worsen instead of improving.
- Your vision becomes blurry or distorted over time.
- You experience eye pain, redness, or sensitivity to light.
These could indicate complications that require professional evaluation.
Halos and starbursts after LASIK are common but usually temporary. With proper post-operative care, these symptoms tend to improve as your eyes heal. If they persist or interfere with your daily activities, consult your eye doctor for further guidance and potential treatment options.