LASIK surgery has transformed the lives of millions by providing clearer vision and reducing dependence on glasses or contact lenses. However, some patients may experience visual disturbances such as halos or starbursts, particularly at night. These effects can be unsettling, but understanding their causes, management strategies, and potential treatments can help alleviate concerns.
Understanding Halos and Starbursts
Halos appear as glowing rings around light sources, while starbursts are radiating streaks that extend outward from lights. These visual disturbances are more noticeable in dim or nighttime Laser eye surgery settings and are particularly common in the weeks following LASIK surgery. While many patients experience improvement over time, some may deal with these symptoms for longer periods.
Common Causes
- Pupil Size – Larger pupils can allow more light to enter the eye from the edges of the cornea, where laser reshaping may have altered the optical clarity.
- Corneal Healing Process – The cornea requires time to heal after surgery, and during this period, minor irregularities can cause light to scatter.
- Residual Refractive Error – Some patients may have slight undercorrections or overcorrections that contribute to visual distortions.
- Dry Eye Syndrome – LASIK can temporarily reduce tear production, leading to dryness that affects light refraction.
- Higher-Order Aberrations – In some cases, subtle imperfections in the corneal shape post-surgery can result in halos and starbursts.
Management Strategies
If you experience halos or starbursts after LASIK, several steps can help minimize their impact:
- Give It Time – Many patients notice improvements within weeks or months as the eye heals and adapts.
- Use Lubricating Eye Drops – Artificial tears can relieve dry eye symptoms, reducing glare and improving clarity.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations – Post-operative care is crucial; ensure you attend follow-up appointments and adhere to prescribed medications.
- Wear Anti-Glare Glasses at Night – If nighttime driving is challenging, specialized glasses with anti-reflective coatings may help reduce light distortions.
- Adjust Your Environment – Using dimmer lights indoors and avoiding direct exposure to bright screens can make symptoms less noticeable.
When to Seek Further Treatment
If halos or starbursts persist beyond six months or significantly affect your daily life, additional treatment options may be considered:
- Wavefront-Guided LASIK Enhancement – This advanced technique corrects higher-order aberrations, improving night vision issues.
- Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) – In rare cases, corneal irregularities may require treatment to stabilize and reshape the cornea.
- Prescription Eye Drops – Some medications help control pupil size and minimize nighttime glare.
- Scleral or Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses – These lenses can improve visual clarity in cases of severe distortions.
Experiencing halos or starbursts after LASIK can be concerning, but in most cases, these symptoms improve as the eyes heal. Managing dryness, protecting the eyes, and discussing concerns with an ophthalmologist can help alleviate discomfort. For persistent issues, advanced treatment options are available to enhance visual quality. If you have ongoing difficulties, consulting your eye doctor is essential to ensure the best outcome for your vision.