Night vision after LASIK can be affected in some cases, leading to glare, halos, or reduced contrast sensitivity. While most issues improve over time, understanding potential side effects and how to manage them is essential for those considering laser eye surgery.
LASIK is a life-changing procedure that helps millions achieve clear vision without glasses or contact lenses. But for some, the experience isn’t flawless—especially in low-light conditions. Night vision disturbances, such as halos around lights, glare, and starbursts, can occur after surgery. If you’re considering LASIK, it’s important to understand how it may impact your ability to see at night and what steps you can take to minimize any side effects.
In this article, we’ll break down what LASIK is, why night vision problems sometimes happen, and what you can do to improve your vision in low-light settings.
What is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular eye surgery that corrects vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure reshapes the cornea using a laser, allowing light to focus properly on the retina.
Benefits of LASIK:
- Quick recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours.
- Long-lasting results: Vision improvement is typically permanent.
- Freedom from glasses and contacts: No more hassle with corrective lenses.
Common Side Effects:
- Temporary dryness
- Light sensitivity
- Night vision issues (which we’ll explore in detail below)
Night Vision Problems After LASIK
While LASIK has a high success rate, some patients experience night vision disturbances, especially in the first few months after surgery. These issues are usually temporary but can be frustrating.
Common Night Vision Issues:
- Glare: Bright lights may seem overly intense.
- Halos: Circular rings around light sources, like streetlights or car headlights.
- Starbursts: Lights may appear to have spikes radiating outward.
- Reduced Contrast Sensitivity: Seeing objects in dim light can be challenging.
These symptoms occur because the cornea needs time to heal and stabilize after LASIK. In some cases, the pupil dilates beyond the reshaped corneal area, causing visual disturbances.
Risk Factors for Night Vision Issues:
- Large pupils: People with naturally larger pupils are more likely to experience night vision problems.
- High prescriptions: Patients who had severe myopia or astigmatism before LASIK may experience more significant night vision issues.
- Older age: Healing and adaptability decrease with age, making recovery slower.
How to Manage Night Vision Issues After LASIK
Immediate Solutions:
- Use anti-reflective glasses for night driving.
- Increase ambient lighting to reduce contrast sensitivity issues.
- Take prescribed eye drops to manage dryness, which can worsen night vision.
Long-Term Strategies:
- Give it time: Most night vision problems improve within 6 months post-surgery.
- Wear night vision glasses: Special lenses with yellow or amber tint can help.
- Consider enhancements: In rare cases, a second LASIK procedure can refine results.
| Night Vision Issue | Cause | Solution |
| Glare | Corneal healing | Anti-glare lenses, time |
| Halos | Light scattering | Night vision glasses |
| Starbursts | Corneal irregularities | Enhanced contrast lighting |
| Contrast Sensitivity | Pupil dilation | Increased lighting |
Pros and Cons of LASIK for Night Vision
Pros:
Eliminates the need for glasses and contacts
High success rate with minimal downtime
Most night vision issues resolve over time
Cons:
Some patients experience long-term night vision problems
Higher risk for those with large pupils or severe myopia
Dry eyes can worsen night vision disturbances
Alternative Solutions
If LASIK-related night vision issues persist, eye exercises may help improve overall visual performance. Apps like VisionUp guide users through targeted eye exercises to strengthen vision and adapt to light changes. Regular eye care and lifestyle adjustments can also help reduce night vision problems.
Conclusion
LASIK is an effective procedure for vision correction, but some patients experience night vision disturbances. While most issues resolve within a few months, it’s essential to understand potential side effects before deciding on surgery.
Key Takeaways:
- Night vision issues like halos, glare, and contrast sensitivity loss can occur after LASIK but usually improve over time.
- Risk factors include large pupils, high prescriptions, and age.
- Management strategies include anti-glare lenses, night vision glasses, and adequate lighting.
If you’re considering LASIK, consult with an eye specialist to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
FAQs
1. How long do night vision problems last after LASIK?
Most patients see improvement within 3 to 6 months, though some may experience longer-lasting effects.
2. Can night vision problems be prevented before LASIK?
Your surgeon can assess risk factors like pupil size and prescription strength to minimize the chances of night vision issues.
3. Are night vision problems permanent?
In most cases, no. However, a small percentage of patients may experience long-term difficulties.
4. Can I wear special glasses to improve night vision?
Yes, anti-glare and night-driving glasses can help reduce halos and glare.
5. What should I do if my night vision doesn’t improve?
Consult your eye doctor for potential treatments, including eye drops, corrective lenses, or enhancement procedures.
Pro Tip: Check out How to Prepare for LASIK: A Step-by-Step Guide