LASIK surgery has helped millions of people achieve clearer vision, often eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, some patients experience temporary side effects, such as halos and starbursts, especially in low-light conditions. While these visual disturbances can be frustrating, they are typically part of the healing process and improve over time. Knowing why they occur and how to manage them can help you navigate your LASIK recovery more comfortably.
What Are Halos and Starbursts?
- Halos appear as glowing rings around light sources, making them look blurry or diffused.
- Starbursts create a radiating effect around bright lights, causing them to appear overly intense with streaks extending outward.
These effects are most noticeable at night and in dimly lit environments, which can make activities like driving more challenging.
What Causes Halos and Starbursts After LASIK?
Several factors contribute to these visual disturbances after LASIK:
- Healing Process – The cornea takes time to recover, and temporary vision fluctuations are common in the first few months.
- Large Pupils – If your pupils are naturally large, they may extend beyond the treated area, causing light to scatter and distort vision.
- Dry Eyes – LASIK can temporarily reduce tear production, leading to dryness that worsens halos and starbursts.
- Corneal Swelling – Swelling after surgery can affect how light enters the eye, creating visual distortions.
- Residual Refractive Errors – If your vision is slightly under- or over-corrected, it can contribute to these symptoms.
How to Reduce Halos and Starbursts
1. Allow Time for Healing
For most patients, halos and starbursts gradually improve within three to six months as the eyes adjust and vision stabilizes.
2. Keep Your Eyes Hydrated
Dry eyes can worsen these symptoms. Use preservative-free artificial tears regularly to maintain moisture and clarity.
3. Avoid Night Driving When Possible
Try to limit night driving during the early stages of recovery. If necessary, use anti-glare glasses or adjust your headlights to reduce discomfort.
4. Wear Anti-Reflective or Blue-Light Blocking Glasses
Special lenses with anti-glare coatings can help reduce glare and improve vision in low-light conditions.
5. Consider Prescription Eye Drops
Certain eye drops can help reduce pupil size at night, minimizing light scatter and improving night vision. However, these should only be used under the guidance of your doctor.
6. Discuss LASIK Enhancements
If halos and starbursts persist beyond six months and significantly impact your daily life, your doctor may recommend a LASIK enhancement procedure to fine-tune your vision.
When to See Your Eye Doctor
While these symptoms are usually temporary, contact your ophthalmologist if:
- Halos and starbursts worsen instead of improving.
- Your vision becomes blurry or distorted.
- You experience eye pain, redness, or extreme sensitivity to light.
These could be signs of an underlying issue that requires medical attention.
Halos and starbursts after LASIK are common but usually temporary. Most patients notice improvement as their eyes heal and adjust. With proper eye care, including hydration, specialized glasses, and possible medical treatments, these visual disturbances can be managed effectively. If they persist or interfere with your daily life, consult your eye doctor for further guidance.