Ghosting and Halos in High Myopia After Eyelid Surgery - Ophthalmology

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The symptoms you are experiencing, such as ghosting, halos, and visual disturbances after eyelid surgery, can be quite concerning, especially for someone with high myopia. Let's delve into the potential causes and contributing factors based on your description.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that high myopia itself can lead to various visual anomalies. Individuals with high myopia often experience changes in the vitreous humor, which can lead to symptoms like floaters or visual distortions. The surgery you underwent, which involved the upper eyelid, may have inadvertently affected your visual perception, particularly if there was any swelling or changes in the eyelid position that could alter how light enters your eye.

The presence of halos and ghosting can be attributed to several factors:
1. Corneal Changes: After eyelid surgery, the cornea may experience temporary changes in shape or surface irregularities, which can lead to light scattering and the perception of halos around lights. This is particularly relevant if the eyelid position has changed, affecting how light is focused on the retina.

2. Dry Eye Syndrome: You mentioned that your left eye is drier than the right. Dry eyes can significantly impact visual clarity and comfort. When the tear film is insufficient, it can lead to irregularities in vision, including ghosting and halos, especially when looking at screens or bright lights. The use of artificial tears, as recommended by your doctor, is crucial in managing this condition.

3. Visual Fatigue: If your left eye has been compensating for the eyelid droop for a long time, it may have developed a form of visual fatigue. This can lead to difficulties in focusing, resulting in overlapping images or ghosting, particularly when viewing screens or illuminated text.

4. Optical Factors: The adjustments made to your glasses may not have fully compensated for the changes in your vision post-surgery. It's essential to ensure that your prescription is accurate, especially considering the potential for changes in your visual acuity due to the surgery and the underlying high myopia.

5. Neurological Factors: Given that you have a history of thin optic nerve fibers, it’s worth considering that any changes in visual processing could also contribute to the symptoms you’re experiencing. While your eye pressure is normal, the health of the optic nerve is crucial for clear vision.

In summary, the ghosting and halo effects you are experiencing in your left eye could be multifactorial, involving corneal changes, dry eye syndrome, visual fatigue, and possibly the need for an updated prescription. It is advisable to follow up with your ophthalmologist to discuss these symptoms in detail. They may recommend further assessments, such as corneal topography or a more comprehensive dry eye evaluation, to determine the best course of action.

In the meantime, continue using artificial tears as directed, and consider limiting screen time to reduce visual strain. Regular follow-ups will be essential to monitor any changes in your condition and to adjust your treatment plan accordingly.