Question:
I had cataract surgery several days ago. For the most part, I'm seeing
much better. I'm trying to get used to the brightness of everything, but
I'm thankful that I can see so clearly. I'm having a problem, though,
which I'm hoping is just part of the healing process. At night
especially, if I look at anything that radiates light, I see a beam of
light going through it. My husband and I went to town last night, and
it was very difficult to keep my eyes open, as there was a beam of light
eminating through everything---street lights, headlights, stop lights,
etc. I noticed this morning that the same thing applies if I look at
any shiny object--faucets, for one thing. Is this the way it's going to
be from now on? If so, I'll have a terrible time at night. I'm
thankful for any information.
Answer:
Had same problem after my cataract surgery a few years ago. Complained to my
doc about it. After enough complaining from me he said it was probably a small
crease in IOL due to folding. He said that unless I was in serious difficulty
he would not recommend replacing it. He said (and I agree) that removal is much
more risky and should only be done in emergency. Replacing an IOL is not as
easy as putting it in. Some on this news group will disagree but IMHO eye
surgery is risky and should be avoided as much as possible. In my case, as time
passed the problem lessened. After a few weeks it grew to be only a nuisance.
Now, several years later, I hardly notice it in daylight. Only a little worse
at night. I can drive and only a little glare problem now. My theory is that
the crease gradually flattened out. I have 20/20 in that eye now.
It's good to be concerned. I suggest you keep you Doc informed. If it doesn't
begin to subside in a reasonable time, then consider your options. But first
give it some time.
