Post-Cataract Surgery Light Halos: Causes and Solutions

The appearance of white halos after cataract surgery?

Hello Dr.
Tsai, I am 46 years old.
On July 20, I underwent phacoemulsification surgery for cataract in my left eye at Mackay Memorial Hospital, where a health insurance-covered intraocular lens was implanted.
My vision returned to normal post-surgery, but I noticed a long streak of light when looking at light bulbs, which the doctor said is normal.
However, after two weeks, I began to see radiating beams and halos from certain specific angles of light, which, although not affecting my vision, are quite bothersome.
When I asked my doctor if there was a solution, he mentioned that undergoing another surgery would be complicated and could harm the eye, suggesting that I should tolerate it for now since the lens has not fully settled yet, and to wait a bit longer.

I would like to ask Dr.
Tsai a few questions:
1.
Why is there this reflective phenomenon?
2.
Can this situation be resolved? If I need to have the lens removed and reinserted, would it be better to do it sooner rather than later? Otherwise, would the surgery become more difficult once the intraocular lens adheres to the tissue?
3.
If I decide to undergo another surgery, what kind of damage or complications could it cause to my eye?
I look forward to your response, Dr.
Tsai, as I am uncertain whether I should proceed with another surgery.
Thank you very much.

Mr. Wang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/15

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, your issue is not common, and it is unclear where the problem lies or if it is related to the lens.
It is recommended that you visit a medical center for examination.

Reply Date: 2017/08/15

More Info

Hello, thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding the post-cataract surgery symptoms you are experiencing. It’s understandable to feel concerned about the visual disturbances you are encountering after your surgery. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Why are there reflections and halos?
The phenomenon you are experiencing, such as light halos and streaks, is not uncommon after cataract surgery. These symptoms can arise from several factors. One primary cause is the interaction of light with the newly implanted intraocular lens (IOL). If the IOL is not perfectly aligned or if there are minor imperfections in the lens, it can cause light to scatter, leading to halos or streaks around light sources. Additionally, post-operative changes in the cornea or residual refractive errors can contribute to these visual disturbances. It’s also possible that the healing process of the eye is still ongoing, which can temporarily affect your vision.

2. Can this situation be resolved?
In many cases, these symptoms improve over time as the eye continues to heal and the brain adapts to the new visual input. Your doctor’s recommendation to wait a bit longer before making any decisions is sound, as the IOL may settle into its final position and your vision may stabilize. However, if the symptoms persist and significantly affect your quality of life, further evaluation may be warranted. If a secondary procedure is considered, it’s essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your ophthalmologist.

3. What are the risks of a secondary surgery?
If you decide to undergo another surgery to reposition or replace the IOL, there are inherent risks involved, as with any surgical procedure. Potential complications could include infection, bleeding, retinal detachment, or further visual disturbances. The timing of the surgery can also play a role; performing it too soon after the initial procedure may increase the risk of complications, especially if the IOL has begun to adhere to the surrounding tissues. Your surgeon will consider these factors when advising you on the best course of action.

In conclusion, while the symptoms you are experiencing can be frustrating, they are not uncommon after cataract surgery. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your ophthalmologist and follow their advice regarding monitoring your condition. If the symptoms do not improve or worsen, further intervention may be necessary. Remember, the goal is to ensure your long-term visual health and comfort, so don’t hesitate to express your concerns and seek clarification from your healthcare provider. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope this information helps you navigate your post-operative experience.

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