Can I Have Laser Eye Surgery If I Have Night Vision Disturbances?

Traditionally, Laser Eye Surgery has had some limitations which meant that certain patients were unsuitable for treatment. This may have been due to the extent of their prescription, the thickness of the corneas, or the presence of certain health conditions. But while some of these limitations may remain, advancements in technology and expertise mean that more people are now suitable for treatment than ever before – including those with night vision disturbances.

What are Night Vision Disturbances?

Night vision disturbances occur – unsurprisingly – at night, or in low light conditions. They may manifest in various ways, such as the appearance of halos and starbursts around light sources or other forms of glare. Some people may also experience blurry vision in low light conditions that can make it difficult to see what’s happening around them.

The cause of night vision disturbances can vary. For example, they may be linked to vitamin deficiencies, chronic diseases such as diabetes, or other conditions including diabetic retinopathy, nystagmus, cataract, or retinitis pigmentosa.

Some conditions that cause night vision disturbances may be a contraindication for Laser Eye Surgery. If this is the case, the patient will likely be unsuitable for treatment. However, this is not always the case; the only way to know for sure is to have a comprehensive screening consultation to determine your overall health and the health of your eyes.

Expert Laser Eye Surgeon, Mr. Glenn Carp, explains more in the video below.

As Mr. Carp notes, at London Vision Clinic, we screen all patients for night vision disturbances prior to their treatment. We use a number of tests and questionnaires to ascertain the level of night vision problems as accurately as possible and to understand the cause of these disturbances.

Will Laser Eye Surgery Correct Night Vision Disturbances

In patients who are suitable for Laser Eye Surgery, despite night vision disturbances, there is even a chance we may be able to improve these issues. However, again, this depends on the cause and severity of the disturbances.

In most cases, night vision disturbances will likely remain to some extent, even after Laser Eye Surgery. Nonetheless, it is extremely likely that you will still be suitable for treatment, so you can finally throw away those pesky glasses and contact lenses!

Night Vision Disturbances as a Side Effect of Treatment

Laser Eye Surgery is an exceedingly safe procedure with a very low favourable profile. However, in a small number of cases, patients may experience side effects, including dry eyes, and night disturbances such as halos and starbursts.

The occurrence of temporary disturbances in low light levels is common in the immediate recovery stages following Laser Eye Surgery. While these can be irritating and inconvenient, they occur due to swelling in the eye – a completely normal response that is part of the eye’s natural healing process. In most cases, these disturbances should subside within a matter of weeks to a few months at the latest.

If you’d like to learn more about your suitability for Laser Eye Surgery, get in touch or Book a Consultation today.