Is light sensitivity normal after eye surgery?

Today, with the advent of science and technology in the field of ophthalmology, we are witnessing the progression and expansion of new methods and methods of eye surgery. Also, with the advancement of science and technology, eye surgery is safer and less risky than before, with the risk of infection and its side effects greatly reduced. However, few complications after the operation of the eye, especially in the early days of recovery, may occur when enough rest and time passes. One of the most common and natural side effects of the post-operative eye is eye sensitivity to light, which may be of concern to patients who do not have enough information on eye surgery and recovery afterwards.

Cause of light sensitivity after eye surgery

If you experience light sensitivity in the days following eye surgery, it may be due to one or a combination of reasons. Most commonly, sensitivity is caused by swelling of the corneal tissue in response to the damage caused during the creation of the corneal flap. This flap heals relatively quickly after surgery and rarely results in complications, but during this time, the healing process tends to make patients hypersensitive to bright lights. At the same time, patients also tend to have dry eyes in the early stages of recovery, further exposing the tissues to discomfort from environmental factors including light.

Patients who have post-operative light sensitivity describe the feeling as one of discomfort when exposed to bright light, forcing them to shield their eyes or look away. The light source can be natural or synthetic, such as from the sun or from an indoor light fixture. The severity of discomfort and occasions for it vary, depending on the cause of sensitivity and the patient’s individual tolerance. In some cases, patients may need to avoid all but dim lights for the first few days of recovery, while other patients can comfortably endure most levels of light without issue. Although no patient can necessarily predict his or her precise side effects, a few basic precautions can help everyone enjoy a more comfortable recovery.

Ways to Minimize Sensitivity

Currently, surgical methods have already improved the side effects of treatment significantly. For instance, by cooling the cornea after LASIK and by prescribing anesthetic eye drops, an experienced ophthalmologist can reduce sensitivity in both severity and duration. During recovery, a patient can take additional steps to curb discomfort:

• Avoid bright lights: It seems like a no-brainer, but it can be difficult to consistently avoid exposure to bright lights. Whether walking outside or into a bright room, strategically avoiding such environments takes a bit of planning.
• Protect your eyes from direct exposure: If you need to be in an area with bright light, plan accordingly. Wear sunglasses, a hat with a brim, or both.
• Avoid screens: TV and computer screens are bright and may cause eye strain while your tissues are still healing. Try to avoid any such screens in the first 48 hours of recovery.
• Contact your doctor if sensitivity persists: If light sensitivity persists beyond the first week, becomes worse, or resurfaces in following weeks, contact your doctor immediately. You may be prescribed anti-inflammatory medication or alternative treatment in order to ensure the health of your eyes and corneal tissue. Even if you are unsure whether your side effects are normal, it is better to be cautious than to suffer from a potential complication.

Reference:

Experiencing Sensitivity to Light after LASIK Surgery

https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/cataract/cataract-surgery