Seeing Light Circles with Closed Eyes After Retinal Laser Surgery: Is It Normal? - Ophthalmology

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Experiencing light phenomena, such as seeing bright circles or flashes when your eyes are closed after undergoing retinal laser surgery, can be concerning. However, it is essential to understand that some visual disturbances can occur post-surgery, and they may not necessarily indicate a problem.

After retinal laser surgery, patients may experience various visual symptoms due to changes in the retina or the vitreous gel that fills the eye. The phenomenon you described, where you see bright lights or circles when your eyes are closed, is often referred to as "phosphenes." Phosphenes are sensations of light that occur without light actually entering the eye and can be triggered by various factors, including pressure on the eyes, changes in the vitreous, or even neural activity in the visual pathways.

In your case, since your doctor has indicated that the surgery went well and that regular follow-ups are sufficient, it is likely that what you are experiencing is a benign post-operative effect. Many patients report seeing phosphenes after retinal procedures, especially if they had pre-existing conditions like retinal tears or detachments. The brain's visual processing can sometimes continue to interpret signals from the retina or the optic nerve, leading to these light sensations.

It is also worth noting that after retinal surgery, the eye may become more sensitive to light, and this heightened sensitivity can contribute to the perception of light phenomena. The healing process can involve changes in the vitreous gel, which may pull away from the retina, causing temporary visual disturbances.
However, it is crucial to monitor these symptoms. If the light phenomena become more frequent, change in character, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your vision, you should contact your eye doctor immediately. These could be signs of complications such as retinal detachment or other issues that may require prompt attention.

In summary, while seeing light circles or phosphenes after retinal laser surgery can be a normal occurrence, it is always best to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. Regular check-ups and discussions about any new or changing symptoms are vital to ensure your ongoing eye health. If you have any concerns or if the symptoms persist, do not hesitate to reach out to your ophthalmologist for further evaluation and reassurance.