Post-SMILE Pro Laser Surgery: Glare and Light Sensitivity

Q: Post-SMILE Pro Laser Surgery: Glare and Light Sensitivity

Hello： After SMILE surgery, some patients may experience a visual recovery process within weeks or months post-operation, including dry eye symptoms and other visual changes. <br>These symptoms typically improve gradually during the recovery period, but in some cases, they may ta

Postoperative care for SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) laser eye surgery for myopia?

It has been 27 days since I underwent SMILE Pro refractive surgery, and my vision has recovered, except for dry eyes.
I experience "halos or glare" when looking at lights or signs, regardless of the time of day.
In the morning, I also have light sensitivity.
Is this normal, and what could be the possible reasons? Or is it a sign that I have not fully recovered?

Huang Dong, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/09

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: After SMILE surgery, some patients may experience a visual recovery process within weeks or months post-operation, including dry eye symptoms and other visual changes.
These symptoms typically improve gradually during the recovery period, but in some cases, they may take longer to resolve.
Light sensitivity and glare are common phenomena during the postoperative recovery phase.
This may be related to the minor effects on the cornea during the surgical process or the symptoms of dry eye.
When the corneal surface is not adequately lubricated, light can reflect and scatter on the eye's surface, leading to sensations of halo or glare.
Photophobia in the morning is also a relatively common symptom, possibly related to the visual system reactivating after resting during sleep.
This may persist for some time and gradually diminish as the eyes adapt to the changes after surgery.
These symptoms are usually temporary, and most patients will see significant improvement within a few weeks or months.
However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to contact your physician for further evaluation and recommendations.
Meanwhile, following your physician's advice, such as regularly using eye drops (if prescribed) and eye moisturizers, and avoiding excessive eye strain, especially in bright environments or during prolonged use of electronic devices, can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.
We hope your visual condition improves in the coming weeks.

Reply Date: 2024/01/09

More Info

After undergoing SMILE Pro laser surgery, experiencing glare, light sensitivity, and halos around lights is not uncommon, especially within the first few weeks post-operation. Your symptoms, which include seeing halos or glare when looking at lights or signs, as well as light sensitivity in the morning, can be attributed to several factors related to the healing process of the eye.

Firstly, it's important to understand that during the SMILE procedure, a small incision is made in the cornea to reshape it for vision correction. This process can temporarily alter the corneal surface and the way light is refracted as it enters the eye. The cornea may take some time to heal completely, and during this healing phase, patients often report visual disturbances such as glare and halos. These symptoms can be exacerbated by dry eyes, which is a common side effect after laser eye surgery. When the eye is not adequately lubricated, light can scatter more than usual, leading to increased glare and halos.

The fact that you are experiencing these symptoms 27 days post-surgery suggests that your eyes are still in the recovery phase. While many patients notice significant improvement in their vision within a few weeks, others may take longer to fully recover. It is also worth noting that light sensitivity can be more pronounced in the morning due to the eyes adjusting from darkness to light after sleep. This adjustment period can lead to temporary discomfort and sensitivity.

In terms of what you can do to alleviate these symptoms, here are a few recommendations:
1. Use Artificial Tears: If you are experiencing dry eyes, using preservative-free artificial tears can help keep your eyes lubricated. This can reduce glare and improve overall comfort.

2. Avoid Bright Lights: Try to minimize exposure to bright lights, especially at night. Wearing sunglasses during the day can also help reduce light sensitivity.

3. Follow Up with Your Eye Doctor: It is crucial to maintain regular follow-up appointments with your eye care provider. They can monitor your healing progress and provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.

4. Be Patient: Recovery from laser eye surgery can vary significantly from person to person. While many patients see improvement in their symptoms over time, some may take longer. It is essential to give your eyes the time they need to heal.

5. Discuss Concerns with Your Doctor: If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have any concerns about your recovery, do not hesitate to reach out to your eye doctor. They can perform a thorough examination to rule out any complications and provide guidance on the next steps.

In conclusion, while your symptoms of glare, halos, and light sensitivity are common after SMILE Pro laser surgery, they should gradually improve as your eyes heal. It is essential to stay in touch with your healthcare provider to ensure a smooth recovery and address any concerns you may have. With time and proper care, many patients find that their vision stabilizes and improves significantly.

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