When it comes to laser eye surgery, understanding the potential risks is essential. One common concern that often crops up in discussions is the possibility of experiencing haloes post-surgery. So, let's delve into this topic and shed some light on what haloes are, why they occur, and what the real risk is.

What are haloes?

First things first, what are haloes? Imagine seeing bright circles or rings around lights, especially at night or in low-light conditions. That's what haloes are – visual disturbances that can occur after laser eye surgery. They can affect your vision quality, making it seem as if there's a glow or aura around light sources.¹https://personal.math.ubc.ca/~cass/courses/m309-03a/m309-projects/hiew/lasik.html

Now, why do these haloes happen?

Well, during laser eye surgery, the cornea undergoes reshaping to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Sometimes, this reshaping can lead to changes in how light enters the eye, causing haloes to appear around light sources.

How big of a risk are haloes after laser eye surgery?

Advancements in laser technology and surgical techniques have significantly reduced the incidence of haloes. Modern laser platforms, equipped with wavefront-guided or wavefront-optimised technology, with larger treatment zones that aim to minimise aberrations and enhance visual outcomes, thus significantly lowering the risk of post-operative complications like haloes.

The risk of experiencing haloes varies from person to person. Factors like the type of laser procedure, the individual's eye anatomy, and pre-existing conditions can influence the likelihood of encountering haloes. For instance, procedures like LASIK and SMILE Pro may carry a slightly higher risk compared to others.

It is crucial to note that while haloes are a potential side effect, they're often temporary and tend to improve over time as the eyes heal. ²https://journals.lww.com/jcrs/abstract/2003/03000/glare_and_halo_phenomena_after_laser_in_situ.24.aspx Many patients report a reduction in halo symptoms within a few weeks or months post-surgery, with some experiencing no haloes at all after the initial healing period.

But let's not sugarcoat it – haloes can be bothersome for some, especially if they persist or affect daily activities like driving at night. That's why it's crucial to discuss any concerns or potential risks with your surgeon during the pre-operative consultation. Your surgeon can evaluate your candidacy for laser eye surgery and provide personalised recommendations based on your unique eye characteristics and lifestyle needs.

In addition to a thorough pre-operative evaluation, post-operative care plays a significant role in managing haloes and other potential side effects. Following your surgeon's instructions regarding medications, eye drops, and scheduled follow-up visits is essential for ensuring optimal healing and addressing any concerns along the way.

Now, here's the bottom line:

While the risk of haloes after laser eye surgery exists, it's often outweighed by the benefits of improved vision and reduced dependency on glasses or contact lenses. Most patients find that the long-term outcomes of laser vision correction far outweigh the temporary inconveniences of haloes during the initial healing phase.

Remember, knowledge is power. By understanding the potential risks and benefits of laser eye surgery, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your vision goals and lifestyle preferences. So, if you're considering laser vision correction, don't hesitate to book a free assessment with us.