Post-Cataract Surgery: Arc-Shaped Glare and Vision Issues - Ophthalmology

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After undergoing femtosecond cataract surgery and receiving a Zeiss extended depth of focus intraocular lens (IOL), it is not uncommon to experience some visual disturbances, especially in the first month post-surgery. Your description of seeing arc-shaped glare and water-like waves at certain angles, particularly with bright light sources, can be attributed to several factors related to the healing process and the characteristics of the IOL.

Firstly, it is important to understand that after cataract surgery, the eye undergoes a healing process. During this time, patients may experience various visual phenomena, including glare, halos, and fluctuations in vision. These symptoms can be more pronounced at night or in low-light conditions, which aligns with your experience of seeing concentric circles around headlights or traffic lights. This is often due to the way light interacts with the newly implanted lens and the cornea, especially if there are any residual refractive errors or if the cornea is still healing.

The arc-shaped glare you are experiencing could be related to the optics of the IOL itself. Extended depth of focus lenses are designed to provide a greater range of vision, but they can also create certain visual artifacts, particularly in bright light. These artifacts can manifest as halos or glare, especially when looking at point light sources at night. It is essential to give your eyes time to adjust to the new lens, as many patients report improvement in these symptoms over several months.

Regarding your concern about the possibility of the IOL being displaced, it is important to note that while lens displacement can occur, it is relatively rare. If the lens were to shift significantly, it could lead to more pronounced visual disturbances, including double vision or significant changes in visual acuity. However, minor shifts or misalignments may not always be noticeable and can sometimes contribute to the visual effects you are experiencing.
If your vision remains stable at 0.8 (which is approximately 20/25 vision), this is generally considered a good outcome, especially shortly after surgery. However, if you continue to experience discomfort or if your vision deteriorates, it is crucial to follow up with your ophthalmologist. They may perform a thorough examination to assess the position of the IOL, check for any signs of complications such as posterior capsule opacification (a common issue after cataract surgery), and evaluate the overall health of your eye.

In summary, while the visual phenomena you are experiencing can be concerning, they are not uncommon after cataract surgery, particularly with the type of lens you received. It is advisable to monitor your symptoms and maintain regular follow-up appointments with your eye care provider. They can provide reassurance, assess your healing progress, and determine if any further intervention is necessary. Over time, many patients find that their visual symptoms improve as their eyes continue to heal and adapt to the new lens.