Understanding Glare After Eye Surgery

Glare is one of the most commonly reported side effects following certain eye surgeries, such as laser eye surgery or lens replacement. While many patients enjoy clearer vision after their procedure, some may experience increased sensitivity to bright lights, especially at night. Understanding glare, why it occurs, and how to manage it can help you make informed decisions about your eye health.

What is Glare?

Glare refers to difficulty seeing in bright light or when facing direct light sources, such as headlights or sunlight. It often manifests as halos or starbursts around lights, which can make everyday activities, such as driving at night, more challenging.

Why Does Glare Occur?

Glare can occur due to changes in the eye’s surface or lens following surgery. For example, in laser eye surgery, reshaping the cornea can sometimes lead to increased light scatter. Similarly, in lens replacement procedures, adjusting to the new intraocular lens (IOL) can take time, during which some patients may notice heightened sensitivity to light.

Is Glare Permanent?

For many patients, glare is a temporary side effect that diminishes as the eyes heal. Most individuals notice improvement within a few weeks to months after surgery. However, for a small number of patients, glare can persist longer and may become a more permanent aspect of their post-surgery vision.

Managing Glare

If you experience glare, there are several steps you can take to help reduce its impact on your daily life:

Wear Anti-Glare Glasses

Special lenses can help minimise glare from bright lights, particularly at night.

Adjust Lighting

In environments where you can control lighting, reduce exposure to overly bright lights, and opt for softer, ambient lighting.

Night Driving

If glare is affecting your ability to drive at night, consider using anti-reflective coatings on your glasses or limiting night driving until your eyes have fully healed.

Consultation is Key

Before undergoing any form of eye surgery, it is important to discuss the possibility of glare with your surgeon. During your consultation, your surgeon will assess your individual risk factors and set realistic expectations for your post-surgery vision. This helps ensure that you are fully informed about the potential side effects and how they may be managed.

If you’re concerned about glare or other potential side effects, book a consultation with our expert eye surgeons today. They will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your vision and the next steps in your treatment.

Disclaimer: Glare is a possible side effect of eye surgery, but not everyone will experience it. Individual outcomes can vary, and a full consultation with a qualified professional is necessary to understand your personal risk and suitability for surgery.