The only permanent solution for cataracts is a surgical operation. The patient’s opaque lens is removed and replaced with a transparent artificial lens. Thus, the patient regains healthy vision. However, as with any operation, cataract surgery may have certain short-term side effects. Glare in the eye after cataract surgery is one of these side effects.
Why does glare occur after cataract surgery?
Glare in the eye can be defined as the lights appearing brighter or diffused than normal. You may feel this when you look at a light source or when driving at night. The feeling of glare in the eye after cataract surgery may occur due to various reasons.
- Eye Surface Problems: Dry eye, corneal problems or other eye surface problems can also cause glare by preventing the light from refracting properly.
- Lens Material and Design: The material and design of the implanted artificial lens can cause light reflections. Multifocal lenses in particular can cause more glare in some patients.
- Position of the Lens: The position of the artificial lens in the eye can affect how light falls on the retina. Incorrectly positioned lenses can cause light reflections and glare.
- Problems on the Eye Surface: Dry eye, corneal problems, or other eye surface problems can also prevent light from refracting properly, causing glare.
Depending on the cause, most of the time we expect the effect of the glare to subside on its own. However, if the glare is severe and persistent, then you should consult your doctor. There may be different negativities such as improper lens placement. In complaints of glare that persist for a long time, a specialist should be consulted to check this.
