LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a popular surgical procedure that reshapes the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, using a laser to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. While many experience significant vision improvement after LASIK, some blurriness is common as part of the eye’s natural healing process.
Typical Visual Adjustments After LASIK
Immediately after LASIK, some blurry or hazy vision is common as part of the initial healing process. This temporary blurriness can last from a few hours to several days, with vision often improving significantly within 24 to 48 hours. The eye’s adjustment to its new shape and the body’s natural response contribute to these initial visual fluctuations.
Corneal swelling, also known as edema, is a common reason for temporary vision distortion after surgery. As the cornea heals, this swelling gradually subsides. Vision fluctuations, where clarity varies throughout the day or from one day to the next, are also expected as the eye stabilizes. Full vision stabilization can take weeks to months, with some patients reporting improvements for up to six months.
Reasons for Unilateral Blurriness
While general blurriness is common after LASIK, blurriness primarily in one eye can stem from several specific factors. Dry eye syndrome is a common cause, often affecting one eye more severely. LASIK temporarily impacts corneal nerves, disrupting tear production and leading to dryness, which results in fluctuating and blurry vision. About 95% of patients report dry eye symptoms after LASIK; if one eye is drier, its vision may be blurrier.
A residual refractive error in one eye is another reason. This occurs when one eye is slightly under or overcorrected during the procedure. Minor imperfections can remain, leading to blurriness that often resolves with healing, but sometimes requires further intervention. A strong original prescription might also prolong stabilization in that eye.
Issues with the corneal flap, created during LASIK, can also cause blurriness in a single eye. Minor shifts, folds, or irregularities in one eye’s flap can lead to distorted vision. Though uncommon, complications like diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK), an inflammation under the flap, or epithelial ingrowth (surface cells growing under the flap) can also cause unilateral blurriness.
Rarely, inflammation or infection can also lead to blurriness in one eye. Symptoms like increased light sensitivity, redness, pain, and worsening blurriness could indicate an infection. Individual healing differences also mean one eye might heal or respond differently than the other, contributing to temporary or persistent unilateral blurriness.
Recognizing When to Seek Professional Advice
While some blurriness is expected after LASIK, certain symptoms warrant immediate consultation with an eye care professional. Report sudden vision loss or a significant decrease in vision in one or both eyes immediately. Severe or worsening eye pain is also a concerning sign requiring prompt medical attention.
Other red flags include persistent or worsening blurriness, especially if it does not improve as expected. Any discharge from the eye, increased redness, or swelling around the eye could indicate an infection or inflammation. Seeing persistent halos or starbursts around lights, particularly if they worsen, can also be a reason to contact your surgeon. It is important to avoid self-diagnosing and instead rely on your eye care provider for an accurate assessment.
Supporting Your Visual Recovery
Supporting your visual recovery after LASIK involves adhering to post-operative care instructions to promote healing and manage expected symptoms. Using prescribed eye drops is a fundamental part of this process. Antibiotic drops help prevent infection, steroid drops reduce inflammation, and lubricating artificial tears keep the eyes moisturized, which is crucial as dry eyes are common after LASIK. These drops support the healing environment and comfort.
Protecting your eyes from external irritants and physical trauma is also important. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can disrupt the healing corneal flap. Wearing protective eyewear, such as the shields provided, especially during sleep, helps prevent accidental rubbing or contact. Additionally, wearing sunglasses when outdoors provides protection from UV rays and bright light, which can cause sensitivity during recovery.
Resting your eyes and avoiding strenuous activities during the initial recovery period allows the eyes to heal without undue strain. This includes limiting screen time and taking frequent breaks during tasks that require close focus. Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon is also essential to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns. These visits ensure that your recovery stays on track and any potential issues are identified early.