Is Eye Pain After LASIK Surgery Normal? Long-Term Effects

Q: Is Eye Pain After LASIK Surgery Normal? Long-Term Effects

Hello： Generally speaking, symptoms such as glare, photophobia, and hazy vision after myopic laser surgery typically diminish within three to six months post-operation. <br>However, if these symptoms persist for several years and significantly impact daily life, the possibility o

Myopia laser surgery

Is it normal to experience pain when seeing light above the eye after undergoing laser surgery for myopia? This has been ongoing for many years and severely affects my ability to ride a bike and drive.

Lin Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/12

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Generally speaking, symptoms such as glare, photophobia, and hazy vision after myopic laser surgery typically diminish within three to six months post-operation.
However, if these symptoms persist for several years and significantly impact daily life, the possibility of other complications cannot be ruled out.
Here are some potential complications that may lead to your symptoms:
1.
Flap displacement or infection: During myopic laser surgery, a corneal flap is created, followed by laser correction.
If the corneal flap does not heal properly or becomes infected, it may result in symptoms such as glare and pain.
2.
Corneal inflammation: After myopic laser surgery, mild inflammation of the cornea may occur.
If the inflammation is excessive or not treated promptly, it could lead to an irregular corneal surface, causing glare, astigmatism, and other visual issues.
3.
Dry eye syndrome: Myopic laser surgery may lead to temporary dry eye syndrome, with symptoms including dryness, itching, pain, and photophobia.
If dry eye symptoms are severe or prolonged, they may affect vision.
4.
Poor night vision: Some patients may experience poor night vision after myopic laser surgery, such as blurred vision, glare, and photophobia in low-light conditions.
This is usually temporary but may persist for a longer duration.
It is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your original surgeon or another ophthalmologist as soon as possible to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and receive appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2024/04/12

More Info

Experiencing eye pain after LASIK surgery is not uncommon, but it is essential to understand the context and potential long-term effects. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular refractive surgery designed to correct vision issues such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. While many patients enjoy improved vision shortly after the procedure, some may experience discomfort or pain, particularly in the long term.

Understanding Post-LASIK Eye Pain
1. Immediate Post-Operative Pain: After LASIK surgery, it is typical for patients to experience some discomfort, dryness, or a gritty sensation in the eyes. This discomfort usually subsides within a few days as the corneal epithelium heals. Most patients report significant improvement in their symptoms within the first week.

2. Long-Term Pain: If you are experiencing persistent pain, especially years after the surgery, it is crucial to investigate further. Long-term eye pain can be attributed to several factors:
- Dry Eye Syndrome: LASIK can temporarily reduce tear production, leading to dry eyes, which can cause discomfort and pain. This condition may persist long after the surgery, requiring ongoing management with artificial tears or other treatments.

- Corneal Nerve Damage: The LASIK procedure involves cutting the cornea, which can affect the corneal nerves. In some cases, this can lead to neuropathic pain, where the nerves send pain signals even in the absence of an injury.

- Ectasia: Although rare, some patients may develop corneal ectasia, a condition where the cornea becomes progressively thinner and bulges outward, leading to visual distortion and discomfort.

- Residual Refractive Error: If the initial correction was not sufficient, patients might experience visual disturbances or discomfort, particularly in bright light conditions.

Light Sensitivity and Pain
The specific symptom of experiencing pain when looking at light could indicate several underlying issues:
- Photophobia: This condition, characterized by an increased sensitivity to light, can occur after LASIK. It may be associated with dry eyes or corneal nerve issues.

- Corneal Surface Irregularities: If the corneal surface is not smooth due to healing irregularities, it can lead to light scattering and discomfort when exposed to bright light.

Recommendations for Management
1. Consult an Eye Care Professional: If you have been experiencing pain for years, it is crucial to consult with an ophthalmologist or a specialist in corneal diseases. They can perform a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

2. Dry Eye Management: If dry eyes are a contributing factor, treatments may include prescription eye drops, punctal plugs to reduce tear drainage, or other therapies aimed at increasing tear production.

3. Pain Management: Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor may recommend medications or therapies to manage pain effectively.

4. Regular Follow-ups: Continuous monitoring of your eye health is essential, especially if you have persistent symptoms. Regular follow-ups can help catch any complications early.

Conclusion
While some discomfort after LASIK is normal, persistent pain, especially for years, warrants further investigation. Understanding the potential causes and seeking appropriate treatment can significantly improve your quality of life, particularly regarding activities like driving or riding a bike. If you have not already done so, please consult with a qualified eye care professional to explore your symptoms and receive tailored advice and treatment options.

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