LASIK surgery has helped millions achieve clearer vision, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, some people experience temporary side effects, such as halos and starbursts, especially in low-light conditions. These visual disturbances can be frustrating, but they are often part of the normal healing process. Understanding why they Blue fin vision occur and how to manage them can make the recovery period easier.
What Are Halos and Starbursts?
- Halos appear as glowing rings around light sources, such as streetlights or headlights, making them look blurry.
- Starbursts create a radiating effect around lights, making them seem overly bright with streaks extending outward.
These effects are most noticeable at night or in dimly lit areas, which can make activities like driving more challenging.
Why Do They Happen After LASIK?
Several factors contribute to halos and starbursts following LASIK:
- Healing Process – The cornea takes time to recover, and temporary vision fluctuations are normal in the early months.
- Pupil Size – People with larger pupils may notice more pronounced halos and starbursts, especially in the dark.
- Dry Eyes – LASIK can temporarily reduce tear production, leading to dryness that worsens visual distortions.
- Corneal Swelling – Swelling during recovery can change how light enters the eye, creating these visual effects.
- Residual Refractive Errors – If the laser correction was slightly under- or over-performed, it may cause mild vision irregularities.
Ways to Manage Halos and Starbursts
1. Give Your Eyes Time to Heal
For most people, these symptoms improve within three to six months as the eyes adjust and vision stabilizes.
2. Use Lubricating Eye Drops
Keeping your eyes hydrated with preservative-free artificial tears can reduce the effects of dry eyes, which often contribute to halos and starbursts.
3. Limit Night Driving
If possible, avoid driving at night during the early recovery phase. When driving, use anti-glare glasses or adjust your headlights to minimize discomfort.
4. Wear Anti-Reflective Glasses
Special glasses with anti-glare or blue-light blocking coatings can help reduce the intensity of halos and starbursts.
5. Consider Prescription Eye Drops
Some patients benefit from eye drops that temporarily reduce pupil size, decreasing the amount of scattered light that causes these visual disturbances. Always consult your doctor before using them.
6. Explore LASIK Enhancements
If halos and starbursts persist for more than six months and significantly affect daily life, a LASIK enhancement procedure may be an option to refine your vision.
When to See Your Doctor
While these symptoms usually improve over time, you should contact your ophthalmologist if:
- The halos and starbursts worsen instead of getting better.
- Your vision becomes blurry or distorted.
- You experience eye pain, redness, or extreme sensitivity to light.
These could indicate a complication that requires medical attention.
Halos and starbursts after LASIK are common but usually temporary. Most patients notice improvement as their eyes heal and adjust. By following proper eye care, using treatments like lubricating drops, and consulting your doctor if needed, you can manage these symptoms and enjoy the benefits of your improved vision.