LASIK surgery has helped countless people achieve clearer vision, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses and contact lenses. However, some patients experience temporary side effects like 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. Understanding why they happen and how to manage them can help you navigate your recovery with confidence.
What Are Halos and Starbursts?
- Halos appear as glowing circles around light sources, such as headlights or streetlights.
- Starbursts create a radiating effect around bright lights, making them seem overly intense or surrounded by streaks.
These effects are most noticeable at night and Cataract surgery in dim environments, which can make driving or reading in low light challenging.
Why Do Halos and Starbursts Occur After LASIK?
There are several reasons why these visual disturbances may appear after LASIK:
- Healing Process – Your cornea needs time to recover after surgery, and temporary vision fluctuations are common.
- Pupil Size – If you have naturally large pupils, they may extend beyond the treated area, causing light to scatter and creating halos or starbursts.
- Dry Eyes – LASIK can temporarily reduce tear production, leading to dryness that can worsen visual distortions.
- Corneal Swelling – Mild swelling in the cornea can temporarily alter how light enters the eye.
- Residual Refractive Errors – If your vision was slightly under- or over-corrected, it may contribute to these visual disturbances.
How to Manage Halos and Starbursts
1. Be Patient and Allow Time to Heal
For most people, halos and starbursts improve within three to six months as their eyes heal and vision stabilizes.
2. Keep Your Eyes Hydrated
Dry eyes can make these symptoms worse. Use preservative-free artificial tears regularly to maintain moisture and clarity.
3. Minimize Night Driving
If possible, avoid driving at night in the early weeks after LASIK. When necessary, use anti-glare glasses or adjust your car’s headlights to reduce discomfort.
4. Wear Anti-Reflective or Blue-Light Blocking Glasses
Specialized lenses can help reduce glare and improve contrast, making it easier to see in low-light conditions.
5. Consider Prescription Eye Drops
Some eye drops can help reduce pupil size at night, minimizing light scatter. However, these should only be used under the guidance of your doctor.
6. Discuss LASIK Enhancements with Your Doctor
If halos and starbursts persist beyond six months and significantly impact your daily life, a LASIK enhancement procedure may be an option to fine-tune your vision.
When to See Your Eye Doctor
While halos and starbursts usually improve on their own, you should contact your ophthalmologist if:
- The symptoms worsen instead of improving.
- Your vision becomes blurry or distorted.
- You experience eye pain, redness, or sensitivity to light.
These could be signs of an underlying issue that requires medical attention.
Halos and starbursts after LASIK are common but typically temporary. With proper eye care, patience, and possible treatment options, most patients experience significant improvement over time. If these visual disturbances persist or interfere with your daily activities, consult your eye doctor for further guidance.
