While the effects of LASIK are permanent, it doesn’t make your eyesight immune to complications. People may develop eye problems later in life, making their previous LASIK procedure less effective.

In this article, we cover the effects of LASIK and its pros and cons so you can determine if it’s the right procedure for you.

Is There a Limit to Lasik Procedures?

You can get LASIK more than once. However, the maximum number of times you can get LASIK without health risks is three.

Each time you undergo LASIK, the surgeon removes corneal tissue. If your corneas are too thin after the first procedure, you may not be able to undergo LASIK eye surgery a second time.

Regardless of your corneal health, undergoing more than three LASIK procedures can harm your eyes and cause severe vision problems.

How Long Do the Effects of LASIK Eye Surgery Last?

The results of LASIK surgery last forever. However, there are a few reasons your vision might change after getting LASIK:

1. If the original condition that affected your eyesight continues to progress.¹
2. A natural condition called presbyopia can develop as you age. It causes your lens to become less flexible, and you can’t focus on nearby objects.

Your age at the time of the LASIK procedure can also impact how long the results last. If you have any other progressive eye conditions, these can also affect your vision over time.

How Common Is LASIK Retreatment?

Retreatment rates for LASIK are typically between three and 37.9 percent, depending on the literature.⁵

One study discovered that 35 percent of people who had LASIK surgery needed retreatment within 10 years.²

Another study followed people with nearsightedness and/or astigmatism who had LASIK. After 12 years, they discovered around 10 percent of the participants experienced regression (vision changes) during that time.³

Keep in mind that the majority of people who have LASIK remain happy with their vision, even after a decade. Consult your doctor if you plan to undergo LASIK retreatment to treat your current vision problems.

Why People Seek LASIK Enhancement Surgery

If your eyesight becomes blurry following your first LASIK procedure, you may be able to get LASIK for a second time. This depends on your doctor’s method for extracting the tissue during the first procedure and how much they left behind.

The main reasons why people undergo a LASIK enhancement include:

Patient and/or Surgeon Expectations

In some cases, LASIK patients are content with a small amount of ongoing refractive problems if it doesn’t affect their daily tasks. However, if someone expects perfect eyesight immediately, they’re more likely to seek a LASIK enhancement.

Healing time can take up to 2 or 3 months, so full vision correction may not occur for some time after the procedure. However, vision will be clearer in the days after the treatment.

Stable Refractive Error

If an ongoing vision issue doesn’t change after 3 months, it may be time to seek an enhancement. This may be because the initial procedure didn’t fully correct the shape of the cornea.

Improper Refraction/Data Entered

As part of the LASIK procedure, the laser is pre-programmed with information to shape the cornea properly. If this is even slightly off, under or overcorrection can occur.

Flap Issues

During laser eye surgery, the surgeon cuts a flap of tissue and moves it aside. Then, they shape the cornea with a laser.

If the flap doesn’t heal properly or dislocates, you won’t get optimal visual acuity. This complicates retreatment, but it has been shown to help improve healing.

Cutting a new flap may be part of the treatment. This usually makes recovery longer but is more likely to improve vision outcomes.

Other Healing Complications

Treating epithelial ingrowth or flap melting after LASIK requires retreatment. These complications may require the surgeon to re-lift the flap during a second procedure.

LASIK Retreatment Costs

The average price of LASIK surgery is around $4,200 in total. In some cases, the cost can be less.⁴

Often, this price includes the cost of pre-op evaluations and post-op follow-up exams besides the procedure itself.

Sometimes, the price includes a second LASIK procedure to further correct your vision. Your doctor usually provides this if they didn’t remove enough tissue initially.

Insurance companies consider LASIK surgery to be an elective procedure, so most don’t cover its costs.

Benefits and Risks of LASIK Surgery Enhancements  

LASIK enhancement has several pros and cons.

Pros

• A quick and familiar process
• An improvement in vision that usually only takes a few days
• Clearer vision without contacts or glasses, depending on the patient’s circumstances

Cons

• A risk of a poorly healing flap from an infection or excessive tear production
• A risk of an irregular healing pattern of your cornea underneath the flap, which can cause vision issues and discomfort
• Astigmatism risk, where your eye can end up being an irregular shape because the tissue wasn’t removed evenly
• Severe dry eye syndrome, which can cause discomfort and vision problems if your eyes can’t make enough tears
• Long-term vision problems in dim light, leading to problems seeing at night or in dim light due to halos and glare
• Too much or too little tissue can also be removed, resulting in less than perfect results due to over or under-correction
• While rare, a decrease in or loss of vision can occur

How Does LASIK Work?

LASIK permanently reshapes the tissue in the front of the eye. It works best for people with vision problems, which include:

• Nearsightedness (myopia). This is when you can see nearby objects clearly, while far-away objects appear blurry.
• Farsightedness (hyperopia). This is when you can see far-away objects clearly while nearby objects appear blurry.
• Astigmatism. This causes blurry vision, which occurs from an imperfection in the shape of the front of your eye.

LASIK corrects these eye conditions by reshaping your cornea with lasers. Once complete, light bends correctly and focuses on your retina.

As a result, you have clear, sharp vision close up and far away. The goal is to correct your vision completely so you don’t need to wear glasses or contacts.

Summary

LASIK procedures provide a quick and effective process to correct sight problems permanently. While uncommon, LASIK retreatments may be needed to further correct vision issues over time.

People who have undergone LASIK procedures are recommended to limit retreatments to three procedures. Since LASIK removes corneal tissue, any further treatments affecting it can lead to severe vision problems.

If you’re planning to get LASIK retreatment after recently having the procedure, consult your doctor to confirm if it’s safe for you to proceed.

LASIK surgery is one of the most expensive procedures to treat astigmatism. However, it’s very effective in correcting various vision problems.

You should consider that LASIK may save you money in the long run. Especially if you’re buying contact lenses and glasses every year. 

Does Insurance Cover LASIK for Astigmatism?

Most health insurance plans don’t cover laser eye surgery, including LASIK. This is because insurance companies like Cigna consider LASIK a cosmetic procedure.² In other words, it is not medically necessary. 

However, some insurance options may help lower the costs. Certain plans offer laser surgery benefits, which can help offset surgery costs. These benefits may differ based on the type of plan.

Always check your insurance coverage before committing to a surgery like LASIK. You can also ask your eye doctor about financing plans during your LASIK consultation.

Factors That Affect LASIK Costs

Your eye doctor will speak to you about the cost of LASIK before you commit to surgery. They’ll likely evaluate the cost per eye. This is because each of your eyes may require different amounts of testing, treatment, and follow-up care.

The price of LASIK can also vary based on:

• Treatment location
• Eye doctor’s expertise 
• Type of LASIK technology your doctor uses
• Whether you require a second procedure or additional services

Other Ways to Save Money on LASIK 

You will need to research your plan’s coverage before committing to surgery. You’ll most likely need to pay for LASIK out of pocket. 

However, there are various ways to save money on LASIK, including:

No-Interest Financing

Many insurance companies offer plans for medical procedures like LASIK. Some plans even come with no interest.

This means if you pay back the cost of the surgery on time, you don’t have to pay any interest. You’ll typically need to cover the fees within 24 months. However, the fees can get high if you can’t pay on time.

FSA

Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) are sometimes used to pay for LASIK eye surgery. An FSA enables you to send pre-tax income from your paycheck into an account for out-of-pocket medical expenses.

In 2021, the maximum yearly employee contribution to an FSA was $2,750. As such, you’ll likely need more than your FSA to cover the procedure.

HSA 

Another option is to add tax-free dollars to a health savings account (HSA) to help cover LASIK surgery. To qualify for an HSA, you must enroll in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). You can add to your HSA every pay period. 

In 2021, the annual limit was $3,600 and $7,200 for family coverage. Unlike an FSA, any unspent dollars in your HSA roll over at the end of the year. You can use the money the following year or further in the future.

You can save enough money to cover the full cost of LASIK surgery by contributing to your HSA for 2 or more years. This will depend on your budget.

Military Benefits

Specific corrective vision surgery options may be free if you serve in the U.S. military. This includes LASIK. Your eligibility depends partly on the nature of your duties.

Limited Time Offers 

LASIK discounts commonly pop up on radio, TV, and billboard advertisements. However, you should be careful because some discounts might be misleading.

Advertisements suggest you can have the surgery for hundreds of dollars rather than thousands. These prices typically do not reflect the total cost of care.

These advertised prices may include the standalone surgery but usually not the cost of certain fees that add up, including:

• Your preoperative screening exam
• Advanced technologies, including corneal mapping
• Astigmatism correction
• Aftercare
• Extra corrections if your vision doesn’t clear 

It’s essential to have a screening exam before surgery to understand how much LASIK will cost. Inform your doctor of all vision and health problems so they can accurately assess your needs. 

If you’re proactive, you can find a reputable limited-time offer or discount in your area. Make sure to do your research before booking with a discounted service. 

Special Group Pricing

Some surgeries offer special prices for groups like: 

• Companies
• Trade unions
• Professional associations
• Sports clubs

To access these prices, you must prove that you belong to the group. If your group hasn’t enrolled yet, your head of management or HR must arrange the agreement.

LASIK for Astigmatism Overview

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a laser-assisted eye surgery that changes the shape of your cornea, which is the clear front surface of your eye. It’s the best and most commonly performed laser refractive surgery to correct vision problems.

The cornea typically bends or refracts light into the retina. However, certain eye conditions prevent light from bending correctly, causing blurry vision.

Glasses or contacts can also correct your vision. But, the LASIK procedure can correct refraction problems by reshaping the cornea.

What Conditions Does LASIK Treat?

LASIK eye surgery typically treats the following conditions:

• Nearsightedness
• Farsightedness
• Astigmatism

Nearsightedness causes light rays to meet in the middle of your eye. On the other hand, light meets behind your eye if you’re farsighted. 

Astigmatism can occur when the shape of your cornea is steeper in one direction than the other. This is a slightly more complex eye condition because light rays fall in different areas of your eye. Some light rays may focus behind the eye, while some may focus in the middle of the eye.⁷

How Does LASIK Work?

Vision problems begin with improper focus. Light rays must move through the eye to see images clearly and meet at the back of the eye. 

LASIK surgery involves removing a certain amount of tissue, so rays meet in the proper spot. The LASIK surgeon does this by reshaping parts of your cornea with a programmed laser.

With each laser pulse, tiny amounts of corneal tissue are removed. The surgery is usually finished in 30 minutes or less. If you need LASIK surgery for both eyes, the procedure should be done on the same day.

Risks of LASIK Eye Surgery

You may experience certain side effects from your laser eye surgery procedure.

These side effects include:

• Dry eyes
• Glare, haloes, and double vision
• Astigmatism 
• Flap problems
• Overcorrections and under-corrections
• Corneal ectasia
• Regression
• Vision loss and changes

These symptoms typically fade after weeks or months. 

Alternatives for Astigmatism Correction

There are various alternatives for astigmatism correction, including:

Glasses and Contact Lenses

Glasses and contact lenses can significantly improve your eyesight, even with astigmatism. Health insurance companies rely on this knowledge when determining vision correction benefits.¹ 

If you haven’t tried glasses or contact lenses, it may be a good idea to do so before asking about LASIK. Most eyesight insurance plans cover new eyeglasses or contact lenses every 12 months.

PRK

PRK stands for photorefractive keratectomy. It’s a laser eye surgery that predates LASIK.

Because LASIK is more comfortable than PRK, it’s more common. However, PRK is more affordable. Costs range between $1,000 and $3,000 per eye. PRK is considered elective surgery like LASIK, so insurance usually doesn’t cover it.

Summary

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a vision correction surgery that reshapes your cornea. This allows light to properly refract into your retina, correcting eye conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

The average cost of LASIK is around $4,200. Unfortunately, because LASIK isn’t a medically necessary procedure, it isn’t covered by insurance.

However, there are other ways you can save on LASIK costs. Talk to your eye doctor about different financing options.

Blue light filters reduce the intraocular transmission of short‐wavelength visible light.⁸ Manufacturers claim that blue light filters reduce the effects of blue light from the following:

• Computer and laptop screens
• Cell phones
• Tablets 
• Flat-screen televisions

Blue light glasses feature filtering materials or surface coating on the lenses to block out blue light. People who believe that their eye and vision symptoms are from blue light exposure may wear blue light glasses to reduce their exposure.

However, a 2017 systematic review suggests insufficient evidence is available to support the potential benefits of blue light glasses.⁵ Some advertisers have even received fines for misleading claims.

Despite the lack of evidence to support blue light glasses, wearing them won’t cause any harm. It’s up to the person whether they want to try blue light glasses.

What is Blue Light?

Blue light is a part of the visible light spectrum. This spectrum refers to what the human eye can see.

Blue light vibrates within the 380 to 500-nanometer range. It has the shortest wavelength and the highest energy.⁷

Approximately one-third of all visible light is high-energy visible or ‘blue’ light. Sunlight is the most significant source of blue light.⁷

Artificial sources of blue light include:

• Fluorescent light
• Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs 
• LEDs
• Flat-screen LED televisions
• Computer monitors
• Tablet screens
• Smartphones

How Does Blue Light Affect the Eyes?

Here are the different ways blue light affects the eyes:

Retinal Damage

Consistent exposure to blue light may damage retinal cells over time. This may cause vision problems like age-related macular degeneration.

Blue light exposure can also contribute to:

• Cataracts
• Eye cancer
• Growths on the clear covering over the white part of the eye
• Poor sleeping patterns

Interrupted Sleep

Exposure to blue light before sleeping can affect sleep patterns. It affects when our bodies make melatonin.

This disrupts our circadian rhythm, which is the body’s natural clock.⁸ This can cause problems with sleep and wake cycles, leading to insomnia, lack of concentration, and fatigue.

Digital Eye Strain

Computer screens and digital devices emit a lot of blue light. People also tend to blink less when using digital devices. This reduces contrast and can contribute to digital eye strain.

Other common symptoms of eye strain include:

• Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Neck and shoulder pain

Approximately 27 to 35 percent of people reported experiencing one of these symptoms after using digital devices.⁷ People are exposed to more blue light than ever because of the everyday use of devices that rely on LED technology.

Blue Light & Circadian Rhythms

Blue light plays an important role in your circadian rhythm. Exposure to sunlight throughout the day helps synchronize your body’s internal clock.⁹

The sun used to be our only source of blue light. Now, most homes, offices, and stores are filled with it. Additionally, many people look at their computers and mobile devices at night.

This increase in blue light exposure can decrease melatonin production. Melatonin is a hormone released by the pineal gland. It helps control your sleep-wake cycle.

Research suggests that wearing blue light blocking glasses before bed can effectively treat melatonin suppression.¹⁰

How Do Circadian Rhythms Affect Health?

Circadian rhythms involve several important body processes, including:

• Sleep cycle
• Heart rate
• Blood pressure
• Body temperature

Symptoms of circadian rhythm disorders include:

• Extreme tiredness
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Difficulty concentrating and decreased alertness
• Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both
• Impaired judgment while driving
• Poor emotional control
• Body aches and pains
• Headaches
• Stomach problems

Without treatment, circadian rhythm disorders can increase your risk of several health issues, including cardiovascular disease.

5 Benefits of Blue Light Filters

Here are 5 benefits of blue light filters:

1. Improves Sleep

Exposure to short-wave light from digital devices before bedtime may affect sleep patterns.

A small 2019 study suggests that blue light filter glasses may help treat sleep disorders in people with Parkinson’s disease.¹

Other studies also suggest that blue light glasses improve sleep quality and duration.³ Others recommend stopping the use of devices before bedtime completely.⁴

2. Lessens Eye Strain

Looking at a screen all day can lead to eye strain. Blue light can also make it more challenging to focus on the screen. This can make your eyes strain to concentrate.

Blue light glasses may help reduce eye strain. They do this by increasing the contrast on your screen. This makes it easier to focus and reduces eye strain.

3. Reduces Risk of Eye Diseases

Wearing blue light glasses may help prevent the development of different eye diseases, such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

Your cornea and natural lens effectively block most UV light from reaching the retina. However, they cannot block blue light. Blue light filters improve your eye health.

4. Fewer Headaches

Blue light can trigger migraines and worsen headache pain. 

Blocking blue light with special glasses may help lessen migraine attacks and reduce headache pain.

5. Allows You to Continue Using Digital Devices

If you’re not prepared to limit the use of your digital devices, blue light glasses may help you continue using them as usual. They reduce the effects of blue light on your eyes.

How to Reduce Digital Eye Strain

Digital eye strain is not caused by blue light. It’s caused by the ways we use our digital devices.

Here are some methods you can use to combat digital eye strain:

Maintain Proper Distance

Your computer screen should be an arm’s length away — approximately 25 inches, or at the point where your palm rests flat against the screen. The monitor should face slightly downward (about 15 to 20 degrees from your eye level to the center of the screen).

Sit Properly

Maintain good posture with your feet flat on the floor and back straight. Your chair should have a backrest. Relax your shoulders and keep your forearms flat with your wrists on the keyboard.

Place Reference Materials Properly

Using reference materials, such as textbooks, a notebook, or a second monitor, should be the same height as your monitor.

Blink Often

One of the biggest causes of digital eye strain is not blinking. When focusing on digital screens, our blink rate can be reduced by up to 50 percent. Blink as often as possible to reduce dry eye and other symptoms.

Reduce Glare

You can adjust your screen settings, buy anti-glare coatings, or ensure your computer screen is high-quality. This will reduce the amount of light reflected from your screen.

20-20-20 Rule

Every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. You should also rest your eyes for 15 minutes after every 2 hours of computer use. This helps prevent eye fatigue.

Increase Text Size

Reading small letters can strain your eyes and cause headaches. Increasing your font size can help combat this.

We suggest speaking with your local ophthalmologist if you are experiencing any digital eye strain symptoms.

Summary

• Digital devices like computers, televisions, and phones emit blue light
• The blue light emitted from these devices may not be enough to lead to eye or vision damage, even with long-term exposure
• Further studies are required to confirm whether blue light emitted from digital devices is harmful
• Blue light glasses may help with eye strain and other problems related to the eyes — but there is not enough research available to prove this
• Either way, wearing blue light glasses won’t cause any damage to the eyes

Dark mode reduces screen glare and blue light on laptop screens and mobile devices. However, there’s no scientific evidence that the dark mode setting makes a real difference.

This article explains dark mode and what science has to say about using this display option.

What is Dark Mode?

Dark mode, also known as dark theme or night mode, is a display setting on many computers and smartphones. 

The default setting on most electronic devices is black text on a white background, sometimes called light mode. 

Switching your device to dark mode will display white text on a dark background. Light text on a dark screen is called an inverted color scheme.

Dark mode is used to reduce blue light exposure. This helps with digital eye strain (computer vision syndrome) that may result from prolonged screen time. 

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), digital eye strain is related to how we use our devices. Eye strain isn’t necessarily linked to the blue light that comes from our digital screens.¹

What Does Research Say About Dark Mode?

Studies are inconclusive on whether dark themes or other blue light filtering solutions work to reduce eye strain.

More research has been done on dark mode’s effect on sleep patterns than on eye health.

A 2019 study examined Apple’s night shift feature on the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. The study found no significant difference between people who used the night shift feature on their iPad before bed and those who didn’t.²

The study’s authors stated that the night shift feature alone wouldn’t be enough to restore circadian rhythm. Adjusting the device’s brightness seemed to be equally or even more important.

This discovery lines up with official recommendations from experts. The AAO suggests reducing glare and brightness by adjusting the settings on your screen and setting devices to dark themes.¹

Advantages of Dark Mode 

Although the research into dark mode’s effects is inconclusive, some claim the setting benefits them. You can achieve most of these benefits by manually adjusting your screen brightness.

Here are some potential advantages of dark mode:

Avoids Screen Glare

Looking at a bright screen in low-light environments can cause an irritating glare. Using dark mode significantly reduces glare, which leads to more comfortable viewing.

If you don’t want to use dark mode, manually dimming your screen with the default theme will have the same effect.

Cuts Down on Blue Light Exposure

Blue light exposure can lead to side effects such as difficulty sleeping and eye strain. A black background on your device may cut down exposure.⁴ 

However, you may also achieve this by adjusting your screen’s brightness settings, especially in dark environments.

Increases Battery Life

Dark mode may increase the battery life on your device. This is not a health benefit but may make your life easier.

Manually dimming your screen has the same battery-saving effect.

Is Dark Mode Better For Your Eyes?

Using night mode settings or black themes may be easier on your eyes than looking at bright, white screens. This is especially true in low-light settings like nighttime.

However, color inversion makes it harder to read for others. If this happens to you, eye dilation may be the culprit.

When you look at dark text on a light background, your pupils constrict to provide sharper visual acuity. Your pupils dilate when the background changes from white to black or darker colors.

Eye dilation is a normal response to low light conditions, but it makes it harder to focus on text. People with astigmatism might have a tough time reading in night mode.

How Do You Use Dark Mode?

You can access dark mode via the display settings on your mobile phone or computer. 

Dark mode is accessed via your phone’s display settings. It can be switched on and off to your preferences.

When applied, dark mode is set across the entire user interface. This includes apps.

If you can’t find the dark mode option, this feature may have a different name on your phone, such as night mode. Or, your model is older and doesn’t offer a dark mode theme.

Other Ways to Reduce Eye Strain

Other ways to prevent eye strain and reduce blue light exposure include:

• Stay hydrated. Drink enough water during the day. This helps your entire body stay well-lubricated, including the eyes.
• Take breaks from screens. The AAO suggests taking a 20-second break to look at an object 20 feet away every 20 minutes of screen time.¹ 
• Lubricate your eyes. Use over-the-counter artificial tears to keep your eyes hydrated. This is helpful when you are using the computer for extended periods.

When to Call a Doctor

Seek professional help if you experience worrisome eye symptoms, especially if home treatments and prevention methods aren’t working.

Meet with an eye doctor if you notice any of the following:

• Significant eye strain or pain 
• Chronic dry eye 
• Consistent headaches or migraine attacks 
• Vision obstructions
• Signs of an eye infection

Summary

• Dark mode may reduce eye strain and dry eye for some people who spend a lot of time staring at screens
• Currently, no conclusive evidence proves dark mode works for anything besides extending the battery life of your device
• There’s no harm in trying dark mode to improve your eye health
• If you continue having symptoms of eye strain and dry eye, visit your eye doctor to discuss other treatments

Too much blue light from digital devices can lead to problems like blurred vision, macular degeneration, and digital eye strain. It can also disturb your body’s natural wake-sleep cycle (circadian rhythm).

This article explains how exposure to blue light affects your eyes and what you can do to protect them.

What Is Blue Light?

Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum. This is what the human eye can see.

Blue light vibrates within the 380 to 500-nanometer range. It has the shortest wavelength and the highest energy of visible light.¹ 

Around one-third of visible light is considered high-energy visible or blue light. Sunlight is the most significant source of blue light. 

Artificial sources of blue light include:

• Fluorescent light
• Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs
• LEDs
• LED televisions
• Computer screens
• Smartphones
• Tablet screens

How Does Blue Light Affect Your Eyes? 

Blue light is next to ultraviolet (UV) on the electromagnetic spectrum. Although the eye’s cornea and lens can block most UV rays before they reach the retina, visible blue light passes through.  

Animal studies show that direct and prolonged exposure to blue light damages cells in the light-sensitive retina.⁴ However, no studies can confirm this effect on humans.

Eye doctors state there is little proof that blue light exposure from digital devices damages the retina.⁴ LED devices are still relatively new. No long-term studies have shown how blue light may affect your eyes during your lifetime.⁸

Risks of Blue Light on Eye Health 

Current research suggests that exposure to blue light from electronic devices likely doesn’t pose a severe risk to your eyes.⁴ However, there are still some risks to consider:

1. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) causes vision loss in the center of your field of vision. Details and objects in the middle of your sightlines become blurry. Over time, they may become impossible to see.

Animal and lab studies have questioned whether blue light can speed up AMD. However, researchers don’t believe there’s a link between using LED digital device screens and AMD.⁴

2. Digital Eye Strain (Computer Vision Syndrome)

Using digital screens up close or for long periods can cause digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome.⁶

People who use digital devices tend to blink less often than usual. Fewer blinks mean less moisture and more strain on the eyes.

Other symptoms may include:

• Eye dryness
• Sore or irritated eyes
• Tired eyes
• Headaches
• Facial muscles fatigued by squinting

3. Disrupted Sleep Patterns

Blue light exposure may affect your sleep-wake cycle, called the circadian rhythm. 

Light sensors in your eyes and skin can tell the difference between daylight and nighttime. Bright daylight has intense blue waves. Warmer, redder tones indicate that the day is ending.

When the light around you settles into sunset shades, the sensors in your eyes trigger your body to release its natural melatonin stores. Melatonin is a sleep-inducing hormone.

When you experience blue light exposure in the evening, your body doesn’t release as much melatonin as usual. As a result, your sleep cycle is delayed or disrupted.⁷

4. Other Risks

Other problems may develop from harmful blue light, including:

• An increased risk of hormone-related cancers. For example, breast and prostate cancers¹⁰
• Lower levels of leptin. This is a chemical that signals fullness following meals¹¹
• Metabolic changes. Especially blood sugar levels

How to Protect Your Eyes From Blue Light 

The following steps may help reduce the risks of exposure to blue light:

1. Take Frequent Breaks 

When using a device that emits blue light, stop every 20 minutes. Try focusing on objects that are around 20 feet away. Study those objects for 20 seconds before returning to screen time.

2. Keep Your Eyes Moist 

Eye drops and room humidifiers can help keep your eyes from becoming too dry and irritated while using devices.

3. Use Prescription Eyeglasses

Squinting at screens for extended periods is not healthy for your eyes. 

If you need eyeglasses to correct your vision, wear the right prescription for the distance between your eyes and the screen. This is ideally arm’s length away. Most glasses are designed for longer distances.

4. Adjust the Blue Light on Your Screen 

To lessen the risk of eye strain and sleep issues, try setting your screens to a night shift setting or dark mode. The night shift setting typically uses warmer tones. 

5. Try Blue Light Screen Filters 

You can buy blue light filters such as screens for your computer screen when working at night. These filters can reduce the glare from your screen. 

Blue light filtering screens can block blue light up to 30 to 60 percent.¹² However, it’s unclear if blocking blue light helps improve the sleep-wake cycle for those who use back-lit screens before bed.

6. Use Blue Light-Blocking Lenses 

Blue light blocking glasses contain lenses designed to reduce the blue light that reaches the eyes. 

These lenses filter blue light rays to help stop them from entering your eyes. Blue light lenses usually have a slightly yellow tint to counterbalance blue light.

What Devices Produce Blue Light? 

Blue light is all around us. Today, people are exposed to more blue light than ever. This is due to the widespread use of devices with light-emitting diode (LED) technology.

The following devices produce high amounts of blue light:

• Laptop and computer screens
• Flat-screen televisions
• Cell phones
• Tablets 

Summary

Some health experts are concerned that large amounts of prolonged blue light exposure may damage your eyes. 

Blue light damages cells in laboratory animals, but no research suggests it damages human eyes. It can also affect your body’s ‘sleep-wake’ cycle. This is why it’s recommended to reduce exposure before bed (or use amber-light mode).

Other ways to protect your eyes from too much blue light include filters or special glasses blocking blue light. Reducing blue light exposure from digital devices is best by limiting screen time and taking frequent breaks.

In this article, we cover what diabetic retinopathy does, its risk factors, and what treatment options are available.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that can cause vision loss and blindness in people with diabetes. The condition affects the blood vessels in the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer of tissue in the back of your eye.¹

Having high blood sugar (blood glucose) damages your retina over time. If you have diabetes, it’s important to get a complete dilated eye exam at least once a year.

After being diagnosed with diabetes, you may initially not have symptoms of diabetic retinopathy. However, catching it early can help you take steps to protect your eyesight.

Risk Factors of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy occurs due to high blood sugar from diabetes. Too much sugar in the blood can cause leaking blood vessels or eye fluid leakage and damage the retina.

Although your eyes can grow new blood vessels to make up for the damage, they won’t work as well and will be prone to leakage.

The risk of developing the disease can increase due to:²

• Having diabetes for a while
• Poor control of your blood sugar level
• Pregnancy
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Tobacco use
• Being Black, Hispanic, or Native American

What Are the Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy?

The early stages of diabetic retinopathy typically don’t present any symptoms. However, some people may begin to notice changes in their vision.

People with diabetic retinopathy may have trouble reading or seeing faraway objects. Potential symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include:²

• Dark spots or strings floating in your vision (floaters)
• Blurred vision
• Fluctuating vision
• Dark areas in your vision
• Vision loss

Your symptoms may vary depending on the stage of the disease since these changes in vision may come and go. Sometimes, the dark spots or strings can clear up on their own.

Contact an eye doctor immediately if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.

Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

There are two types of diabetic retinopathy: nonproliferative and proliferative. Nonproliferative retinopathy refers to the early stages of the disease, while proliferative retinopathy is its advanced state where symptoms are the most severe.

The disease develops in four stages, which include:

1. Mild Nonproliferative

The earliest stage of diabetic retinopathy is characterized by small swelling or bulges in the blood vessels in the retina. The areas of swelling are known as microaneurysms.

Microaneurysms can cause small amounts of fluid to leak into the retina, triggering swelling of the macula (the back of the retina). However, the stage typically doesn’t have any noticeable symptoms.

2. Moderate Nonproliferative

During this stage, tiny blood vessels swell up and block blood flow to the retina, preventing proper nourishment. The most notable sign of this stage is blurry vision. This occurs when blood and other fluids build up in the macula.

3. Severe Nonproliferative

This stage has a high chance of an irreversible loss of vision. During this stage, blockage from large sections of blood vessels in the retina causes a significant decrease in blood flow. The lack of blood causes the body to start growing new blood vessels in the area.

These new blood vessels are thin and fragile, causing retinal swelling. This results in the following symptoms:

• Blurry vision
• Dark spots
• Patches of vision loss

When these blood vessels leak into the macula, you may experience sudden and permanent vision loss.

4. Proliferative

This is the advanced stage of the disease, which causes blood vessels in the retina to bleed into the vitreous (the fluid that fills your eye). The new blood vessels that continue to grow in the retina are weak, thin, and prone to bleeding, causing scar tissue to form inside the eye. The scar tissue can pull the retina away from the macula, resulting in retinal detachment.

This stage of the disease requires urgent treatment.

Complications Caused By Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy can cause the following vision and eye health complications:²

1. Vitreous Hemorrhage

Diabetic retinopathy causes the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. The abnormal blood vessels may bleed into the clear substance that fills the center of your eye.

If there’s only a small amount of bleeding, you may only see a few floaters. In more severe cases, the blood can completely block your vision.

Vitreous hemorrhage alone does not usually cause permanent vision loss. The blood usually clears from the eye within a few weeks or months, so your vision will likely return to its initial clarity.

2. Blindness

Diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, macular edema, or a combination of these issues can result in complete vision loss. This is especially true if a person doesn’t manage their diabetes properly.

3. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)

About one in 15 people with diabetes will develop DME.¹ DME occurs when blood vessels in the retina leak fluid into the macula.

The macula is part of the retina. It’s necessary for sharp, central vision. This leak causes blurry vision.

4. Neovascular Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause vision loss and blindness. Diabetic retinopathy can cause abnormal blood vessels to develop in the retina. This blocks fluid from draining out of the eye and leads to neovascular glaucoma.

5. Retinal Detachment

Diabetic retinopathy can cause scars to develop in the back of your eye. Tractional retinal detachment is when the scars pull your retina away from the back of your eye.

A detached retina can lead to:

• A reduced field of vision
• Blurriness
• Permanent blindness

When to See an Eye Doctor for Diabetic Retinopathy

If you have diabetes, visit your eye doctor annually for an eye exam with dilation. You should take precautions even if your vision seems fine.²

Speak to your doctor immediately if your vision changes suddenly or becomes:

• Blurry
• Spotty
• Hazy

If you’re pregnant, your eye doctor may suggest additional eye exams during pregnancy. Having or developing diabetes during pregnancy can increase your risk for diabetic retinopathy.

How is Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosed?

Eye doctors can check for diabetic retinopathy during a dilated eye exam. The eye exam is simple and painless.

Your doctor will provide you with some eye drops to dilate your pupil. Then, they will check your eyes for the condition and any other eye problems.

If your eye doctor believes you may have severe diabetic retinopathy or DME, they are likely to perform a fluorescein angiogram. This test allows the doctor to see pictures of the blood vessels in your retina and areas of fluid leakage.¹

If you are diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, early detection and treatment can reduce future damage and prevent blindness.

How Can You Prevent Diabetic Retinopathy?

You can’t always prevent diabetic retinopathy since diabetes is a lifelong condition. However, there are some steps you can take to prevent and reduce severe vision loss.

You can reduce your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy by doing the following:²

• Manage your diabetes. This involves eating healthy, exercising, and taking oral diabetes medicines or insulin. Try to complete at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week.
• Regular eye exams. Visiting your doctor regularly can help detect the signs of diabetic retinopathy and other vision problems. This can provide early intervention and increase your chance of preventing eye diseases.
• Monitor your blood sugar levels. Record your blood glucose levels several times a day, more if you’re feeling stressed or sick. Ask your doctor about a glycosylated hemoglobin test and how often you should get one.
• Lose excess weight. Managing your weight with diet and exercise can help control your cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
• Quit smoking. Smoking increases your risk of diabetes complications. This includes diabetic retinopathy.
• Pay attention to vision changes. Speak with your eye doctor immediately if your vision changes.

Diabetes does not always lead to vision loss. Taking an active role in diabetes management can help prevent its various complications.

Treatment Options for Diabetic Retinopathy

In the early stages of the condition, your eye doctor will likely assess how your eyes are doing. Some patients with diabetic retinopathy may require a complete dilated eye exam every two to four months.

In its later stages, it’s essential to begin treatment immediately. Treatment can stop your vision from worsening and, in many cases, results in visual improvement.

Treatment options for diabetic retinopathy include:¹

• Eye injections. Medications called anti-VEGF drugs can slow down or reverse the condition. Other injections, called corticosteroids, can also help.
• Laser treatment. Eye doctors can use lasers to reduce swelling in your retina. This makes the blood vessels shrink and stop leaking.
• Eye surgery. If your retina is bleeding a lot or there are a lot of scars in your eye, your doctor may recommend vitrectomy surgery.

Summary

Diabetic retinopathy is a type of diabetic eye disease that affects the blood vessels in the retina. Over time, the damage causes blurry vision, dark spots, and even irreversible blindness.

There are two types of diabetic retinopathy: nonproliferative and proliferative. The disease progresses into four stages, and your symptoms may vary depending on the condition’s stage.

The earliest stage of diabetic retinopathy may not show any symptoms. Because of this, it’s important to visit your eye doctor regularly to prevent future complications. Early detection and treatment can prevent vision problems that may develop.

Milia are tiny white bumps that develop on the skin’s surface.¹ It occurs when keratin gets trapped underneath the skin. Keratin is a protein that makes up your hair, nails, and skin.

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However, unlike whiteheads, milia aren’t symptoms of clogged pores. The bumps are usually found on:

• Faces
• Lips
• Eyelids
• Cheeks

They may also develop in other body areas, like the torso or genitalia. Milia aren’t usually itchy or painful, but they may cause discomfort. Rough clothing or sheets may cause it to appear irritated and red. 

What Causes Milia & Who is at Risk?

Newborn babies often have milia. They are also common in older children. 

Adults may also develop milia, especially on the cheeks or below the eyes. However, the causes of milia differ from those in newborns compared to older children and adults. Eye diseases are not usually the cause of milia.

Newborns

The cause of milia in newborns is unknown. Infants with milia are typically born with it. 

They are often mistaken for baby acne, which occurs from hormones from the mother. Unlike baby acne, milia doesn’t lead to inflammation or swelling. 

Milia on newborn skin also doesn’t need to be treated. They will typically go away on their own in a few weeks. 

Older children and adults

Milia is typically connected to skin damage in older children and adults. Damage to the skin may include:

• Blistering due to a skin condition like epidermolysis bullosa, cicatricial pemphigoid, or porphyria cutanea tarda
• Blistering injuries like poison ivy burns
• Long-term sun damage
• Long-term use of steroid creams
• Skin resurfacing procedures like dermabrasion or laser resurfacing

Milia can also occur if the skin loses its natural ability to exfoliate as it ages.

Types of Milia 

The two types of milia are primary and secondary. These are classified based on the age and the underlying cause.

Primary milia develop directly from trapped keratin. These cysts usually form on the faces of infants or adults. 

Secondary milia (traumatic milia) look similar to primary milia. However, they develop after something blocks the ducts leading to the skin’s surface. This blockage can be caused by an injury, blister, or burn.

Neonatal Milia

Neonatal milia occurs in newborns and heals within a few weeks. The bumps are usually seen on the following: 

• Face
• Scalp
• Upper torso

Juvenile Milia

A rare genetic disorder that affects the skin can result in juvenile milia. These conditions include:

• Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS). A hereditary condition characterized by multiple basal cell skin cancers
• Pachyonychia congenita. This condition may lead to thick or abnormally shaped nails
• Gardner’s syndrome. This rare genetic disorder may progress to colon cancer over time
• Bazex-Dupré-Christol syndrome. This syndrome affects hair growth and the body’s ability to sweat

Milia en Plaque

This condition is linked to genetic or autoimmune skin conditions, like discoid lupus or lichen planus. Milia en plaque can affect: 

• Eyelids
• Ears
• Jaw
• Cheeks

The bumps can be several centimeters in diameter. Milia en plaque is commonly seen in middle-aged women but can develop in adults or children of any age or sex.

Multiple Eruptive Milia

This is characterized by multiple milia formations on the skin. These are itchy and appear more than expected in primary milia. 

Multiple eruptive milia can be found on:

• Faces 
• Upper arms
• Torso

These cysts often occur over a period ranging from a few weeks to a few months.

Milia Linked with Drugs or Products

Drug-induced milia is caused by products such as steroid creams and hydroquinone creams. It’s considered your body’s reaction to the drug.

This form of milia is rare, with no significant signs and symptoms. If you stop or discontinue using creams, it may decrease the milia’s progression.

How to Get Rid of Milia 

While milia aren’t a cause for concern, some people prefer to remove them. Here are a few ways to remove them:

Professional Treatment

A dermatologist may be able to treat milia under your eyes with one of the following procedures:

• Deroofing. During deroofing, a dermatologist uses a sterilized needle to remove the milia from under your eyes
• Cryotherapy. In cryotherapy, liquid nitrogen freezes the milia and destroys it; this procedure isn’t always recommended for areas close to your eyes 
• Laser ablation. During laser ablation, a small laser focuses on the milia to open the tiny cysts to remove the keratin buildup underneath the skin

Home Remedies 

There are also various home remedies to help clear up milia:

• Exfoliating. Gently exfoliating the area with a warm washcloth may remove some dead skin cells and help trapped keratin rise to the surface
• Steaming. Spending some time in the bathroom with the door closed and a hot shower running can provide an easy at-home steam treatment for your skin
• Rosewater and manuka honey. The anti-inflammatory properties in roses and honey can help clear up milia

Over-the-counter products

You can also buy over-the-counter products to heal milia under your eyes. These include:

• Topical alpha hydroxy acids. Products with glycolic and lactic acid can promote healthy skin; you can find these ingredients in products like face toners, masks, and skin peels
• Salicylic acid treatments. These may help release keratin trapped between skin layers, they’re present in exfoliating creams and cleansers
• Over-the-counter topical retinoids. These help old skin cells and trapped toxins rise to the skin’s surface; they also promote cell turnover and reduce stickiness

Before purchasing products to treat milia, read the label to ensure it is safe to use under the eyes. Since this area is very sensitive, you may need to choose products specifically designed and marketed for under the eyes.

Does Milia Require Treatment?

Milia doesn’t need to be treated. They usually clear up within a few weeks to months. 

However, you should get rid of them sooner for cosmetic reasons.² See a doctor or dermatologist to get rid of milia. 

They can help diagnose milia if you are concerned about the appearance. A doctor or dermatologist can also help remove milia if they bother you cosmetically or are irritated.

How Long Does it Take for Milia to Go Away?

Milia in children usually clears up within a few weeks. In adults, milia typically take a few months to heal, depending on the underlying cause.

However, if your milia doesn’t improve within a few weeks, you may want to check in with your doctor. They can make sure it is not another skin condition.

How to Prevent Milia

If you keep experiencing milia under your eyes, consider adjusting your skincare routine. You should regularly clean, exfoliate, and moisturize your skin. However, too much exfoliation can irritate your skin.

If you are prone to milia, choose oil-free soaps and cleansers. You can also consider using a night serum containing vitamin E or topical vitamin A approved for under-eye use. 

As you age, your body loses some ability to exfoliate dry skin. Serums can retain moisture and encourage cell growth while you sleep. 

Vitamins that can Help Prevent Milia

Ensure you get enough vitamins and nutrients that make your skin healthy. If you are concerned that you are not getting enough vitamins from your diet, here are some oral supplements you can try:

• Vitamin E
• Vitamin B-3 (niacin)
• B-complex vitamins

The Food and Drug Administration doesn’t monitor or regulate supplements. You must speak with your doctor for medical advice before trying supplements. Some may interfere with the medications you are currently taking.

What Not to Do if You Have Milia 

If you have milia, avoid picking or poking at the small cysts. Leaving milia alone helps them heal faster.

If you pick the bumps to the point they become irritated, the milia may lead to infection and scarring.

Summary

Milia are tiny white bumps that develop on the skin’s surface. They typically occur when keratin gets trapped underneath the skin.

There are two types of milia, primary and secondary. Other primary and secondary milia forms are also based on age and the underlying cause.

Milias don’t require treatment and often go away on their own. However, there are ways to remove them if you want to.

• A retinal tear is a rip in the thin, light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of your eye. A torn retina increases the risk of retinal detachment, a medical emergency.
• If you have a retinal tear, you must seek prompt treatment to prevent retinal detachment and vision loss.
• Common symptoms of a torn retina include a sudden appearance of floaters or flashes of light.
• Retinal tear treatment usually involves eye surgery. The most common surgical procedures include freezing treatment and laser surgery.

What is a Torn Retina?

A retinal tear is a rip in the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye (retina). If you have a retinal tear, you may need treatment to prevent retinal detachment. 

A detached retina is a medical emergency that can lead to vision loss. This serious eye condition occurs when the retina moves from its normal position. A torn retina increases your risk for retinal detachment and irreversible vision loss. 

Warning Signs of a Torn Retina

A torn retina must be checked by an ophthalmologist or eye doctor immediately. Otherwise, your retina may detach, resulting in vision loss. 

Speak with an ophthalmologist immediately if you notice any of these warning signs:

• You see flashes of light 
• You notice many new floaters 
• You experience sudden blurry vision
• A shadow appears in your peripheral vision (side vision)
• A grey curtain covers some of your field of vision

What Causes a Retinal Tear?

The most common cause of a retinal tear is posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). This happens when the gel-like substance inside the eye (vitreous) shrinks and separates from the retina.

Normally, PVD occurs without a problem. Sometimes, the vitreous pulls away abnormally and causes the retina to tear.

Eye trauma can also cause a torn retina, but this is less common.

Retinal Tear Treatment Options

A retina specialist will check for retinal tears by placing drops in your eyes to dilate the pupil. They’ll look through a special lens to assess any changes inside the eye.

Eye surgery is the most common treatment for a torn or detached retina. There are two main types of surgery, and both are outpatient procedures.

Laser Treatment (Photocoagulation)

Photocoagulation uses a medical laser to create controlled burns around the tear in your retina. These burns form scar tissue that repairs the torn retina.

During laser surgery:

1. Your eye surgeon numbs your eye with anesthetic drops
2. The surgeon directs a laser beam through your pupil and onto your retina
3. The medical laser burns the retinal tissue around the tear (this creates scar tissue that seals the tear and prevents retinal detachment)
4. Your eye surgeon may prescribe a topical steroid to prevent inflammation

You’ll require two to four weeks to recover following retinal tear surgery.

Freezing (Cryopexy)

Like laser surgery, cryopexy treats retinal tears by creating a scar. Instead of burning, it uses freezing therapy.

During cryopexy:

1. Your eye surgeon numbs the eye
2. The surgeon places a freezing probe directly over the tear on the white of your eye (sclera) 
3. You may feel some pressure or a cold sensation
4. The cold from the probe forms a scar around the tear and holds your retina in place
5. Your doctor may give you special eye drops to keep your eye from swelling

Conservative Treatments

Not all retinal tears require aggressive intervention. Low-risk tears may be identified in people who have no symptoms. These tears may not require immediate treatment, as some retinal tears heal themselves. This means they develop adhesion around the tear without active treatment, potentially stabilizing on their own.

For these cases, careful monitoring is essential. Sometimes the eye spontaneously starts to form a stabilizing scar around the tear. Once a tear has been identified, it must be followed by a trained specialist to ensure it doesn’t worsen.

Retinal tears need to be continually monitored by a specialist who can take action if necessary.

Who is at Risk of Developing a Retinal Tear?

There are several risk factors for having a torn retina:

• Advanced age
• Myopia (nearsightedness)
• Family history of retinal tears or detachment
• Eye injury
• Previous eye surgery, such as cataract surgery
• Thin patches in the retinal tissue (lattice degeneration)

However, there’s no way to predict who might get a retinal tear or when it will occur.

How to Prevent a Retinal Tear

It’s not always possible to prevent a retinal tear. However, you can lessen your risk for retinal conditions by:

• Wearing protective eyewear during contact sports and hobbies that may cause eye injuries
• Getting routine eye exams
• Notifying your eye doctor right away about a sudden appearance of floaters

You may be able to prevent retinal detachment if you seek immediate treatment for a retinal tear.

It’s a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and care by a doctor. If left untreated, retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss.

During the procedure, a surgeon attaches a piece of silicone or a sponge to the white of the eye (sclera). The buckle helps repair retinal detachment by pushing the sclera toward the retinal break or tear.

When is Scleral Buckling Necessary?

Scleral buckle treatment is used for different types of retinal detachments. These include:

• Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
• Inferior retinal detachments
• Complex detachments with multiple retinal tears
• Retinal detachment in young patients who haven’t undergone cataract surgery
• Recurrent retinal detachment

How Does a Scleral Buckle Procedure Work?

Scleral buckling is typically an outpatient procedure performed by an eye surgeon or retina specialist. The surgical procedure takes about 60 to 90 minutes. 

How to Prepare for Scleral Buckling

Before scleral buckling, your eye doctor will inform you of any medications or foods you must stop taking beforehand. 

You’ll also have to arrange for someone to pick you up after the surgical procedure.

What Happens During a Scleral Buckling Procedure?

Here are the procedure steps you can expect during eye surgery:⁵

1. Your surgeon will numb your eye with local anesthesia. You might also receive general anesthesia before the surgery to fall asleep. 
2. You will receive eye drops to dilate your eyes.
3. Your surgeon will make an incision into the outer layer of your eye (sclera).
4. To stop a detachment or retinal tear from reopening, your doctor may also perform laser photocoagulation or cryopexy. This creates scar tissue to seal the break.
5. A buckle or sponge is stitched around the sclera. 
6. Following surgery, the surgeon will drain any fluid behind your retina and apply antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection.

Scleral buckling is typically permanent. If you have a minor retinal detachment, the doctor might place a temporary buckle that will be removed once your eye heals.

How Much Does a Scleral Buckle Procedure Cost?

Scleral buckling typically costs $3,000 to $5,000, including surgical costs, anesthesia fees, and hospital charges. 

Fortunately, most health insurance plans cover at least part of the cost because retinal detachment is a medical emergency. Talk with your doctor and/or insurance provider to determine your options. 

Vision Results After Scleral Buckle Surgery

Scleral buckle surgery is successful in about 90% of cases.⁴ The chances for clear vision following surgery are higher if the macula was still attached before surgery.

If your detachment affected the macula, good vision following scleral buckling is still possible but less likely. You should have a follow-up eye exam about six months after surgery to check for vision changes.

Potential Complications and Scleral Buckling Risks

Overall, scleral buckle surgery produces positive results. However, every surgery involves some level of risk. 

Possible complications of scleral buckle surgery include:

• Infection
• Double vision (diplopia)
• Cataracts
• Bleeding in the eye
• Glaucoma (increased intraocular pressure)
• Another retinal tear or detachment
• Becoming more nearsighted

If you’ve had previous eye surgery and existing scar tissue, this surgery might not immediately repair a retinal detachment. 

If a repeat surgery is necessary, your eye doctor will remove existing scar tissue before proceeding. Scar or pre-existing scar tissue can affect the retina’s ability to reattach.

Scleral Buckle Recovery Time & Aftercare

Recovery time from scleral buckle surgery is anywhere from two to four weeks. 

Your doctor will give you aftercare instructions following surgery. This includes information on when you can start taking prescription medications and instructions for taking post-surgery pain medications.

Days 1 to 2

You can typically return home on the day of surgery, but you will need someone to drive you.

You should expect some temporary side effects, including:

• Redness and swelling
• Tenderness
• Minor pain and discomfort

You must wear an eye patch for a couple of days following surgery. You’ll also apply antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection. You must apply eye drops for up to six weeks following surgery.

Days 2 to 3

Swelling can occur after scleral buckling surgery. Your doctor might recommend placing an ice or cold pack over the eye for 10 to 20 minutes to lessen swelling. Wrap the ice pack around a clean towel before setting it on your skin.

Some doctors suggest applying an ice pack during the first three days following surgery, every one to two hours.

Days 3 to 14

Wait for your eye to heal before engaging in strenuous activity. During this period, avoid exercise, cleaning, and heavy lifting.

Your doctor may also suggest limiting the amount of reading to prevent too much eye movement.

Weeks 2 to 5

Some people can go back to work after two weeks. But this depends on how you feel and the nature of your work.

You should stay at home longer if your role involves heavy lifting or a lot of computer work.

Weeks 6 to 8

Meet with your doctor for a follow-up eye exam. The doctor will check the surgical spot to monitor you’re healing progress.

They will also assess if there is any improvement in sight. They may recommend corrective lenses or a new eyeglass prescription.

Dos and Don’ts After Scleral Buckle Surgery

Here are a few dos and don’ts following a scleral buckling procedure:

What to Do After Scleral Buckle Surgery

• Do take your prescription medication as instructed
• Do avoid rapid eye movements until you follow up with your doctor
• Do wear sunglasses during the day
• Do wear swim goggles to protect your eyes in the shower

What to Avoid After Scleral Buckle Surgery

• Don’t drive until your doctor gives you permission
• Don’t get soap in your eye when showering or washing your face
• Don’t exercise or lift heavy objects
• Don’t lie on your back while sleeping (unless advised otherwise by your surgeon)
• Don’t travel on an airplane until your eye heals (altitude changes can increase eye pressure)

Summary

A scleral buckle is a surgical technique that repairs a detached retina. Retinal detachments are considered medical emergencies. Without treatment, a detached retina can lead to vision loss.

A scleral buckle is a piece of silicone or a sponge that attaches the retina to the white of the eye. Scleral buckling is commonly performed with laser photocoagulation or cryopexy to repair the detached retina.

In most cases, eye discharge is normal and nothing to worry about. However, if the discharge in your eye makes you uncomfortable, it may be time to visit your doctor. 

Several types of eye mucus discharge and conditions may be linked to them. The sooner you make an appointment, the quicker your doctor can check your eyes for a proper diagnosis and start any necessary treatment.

What Does Eye Discharge Look Like?

Eye pus or discharge varies considerably. It may appear clear and watery or thick, green, and sticky. Make sure you visit your eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Eye mucus tends to accumulate in the corners of your eyes during sleep. Sometimes you can remove it by rubbing your finger in the corner of your eyes. However, sometimes your eyelids may feel glued shut by the gunk stuck to your eyelashes.

When is Eye Discharge a Sign of Something Serious?

Eye discharge is usually normal and isn’t indicative of an eye disease.

However, you should speak with your doctor if you experience excessive eye discharge that doesn’t improve after a week. In severe cases, your discharge may develop with other symptoms like eye pain and impaired vision.

What Causes Eye Discharge?

Everyone produces the goop that causes eye mucus. This is normal for healthy people. However, some adjustments in lifestyle or eye health can lead the eyes to create excess discharge.

Some of these changes can also make the discharge more likely to stick to the eyes. Causes of excess eye discharge include:

Eye Products

Some eye products like cosmetics or contact lenses may aggravate the eyes and cause them to create more mucus. 

Dirt and Debris

When the eyes have collected debris around them, they can become irritated.

For example, when someone sleeps without removing mascara or other makeup. The eyes create extra mucus that can get trapped within the eyes and on the eyelashes.

Changes in the Weather or Climate

Some people create more eye discharge at certain times of the year. For example, during allergy season or cold weather.

Eye Infection

Healthy eye discharge is clear or light yellow. It can sometimes be hard, sludgy, or thin after sleeping. However, it should not be noticeable during the day. 

If the mucus from your eyes is very thick, dark yellow, green, or occurs with redness or eye pain, it could suggest an infection. If you have these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor as soon as possible.

Types of Eye Discharge & What They Mean

Various types of eye discharge may suggest different conditions.

Here are some forms of discharge and what they mean:

Morning Mucus (Sleep Crust)

Sleep crust is a combination of mucus, exfoliated skin cells, tears, and oils created or shed by the eye during sleep. It is a natural and healthy part of eye function.⁴ During the day, all the morning mucus washes away when you blink tears.

This stops the morning mucus from remaining in your eyes. However, gravity and the fact that you are not blinking make the sleep crust collect in the corner of your eye when you are asleep.

Crusty Eyelashes and Thick Eye Mucus

Blepharitis is a common eye condition that makes your eyelids swollen, red, irritated, and itchy. It can lead to crusty dandruff-like flakes on your eyelashes. 

This eye condition can be uncomfortable. However, it is not contagious and does not cause any lasting damage to your eyes.

The best treatment for blepharitis is regularly cleaning your eyelids and ensuring they are free of crusts. You can also try applying warm compresses followed by eyelid scrubs. 

Watery Mucus

An eye infection may cause watery tears mixed with a small amount of eye discharge.

Viral conjunctivitis can result in various symptoms, including eyelid swelling, redness, blurry vision, and a foreign body sensation. Conjunctivitis is also called pink eye.

Viral conjunctivitis is often linked to upper respiratory viral illnesses. Inflammation and irritation can cause your eyes to water excessively. 

Eye Bump & Mucus 

Sometimes, eye mucus develops with a lump or reddish bump at the eyelash base or under the eyelid. If mucus only occurs in this area, or you notice pus in the bump, it may be a stye.

Styes are painful, small, red bumps found at the edge of the eyelids. These usually develop due to a bacterial infection.

In some cases, bacterial eye infections like styes can cause the whole eyelid to grow and swell. If you have any symptoms of a stye, visit your doctor, where they can provide medical advice. Never attempt to squeeze or pop a stye.

Stringy Mucus

Stringy, white eye mucus may suggest allergic conjunctivitis.⁶ An allergic reaction in the eye can make you feel very uncomfortable. The allergic response may create deposits and material stuck together, gathering inside your eye or under the lower eyelid.

If eye allergies become severe, eye drops or oral medications may be necessary. Your eye doctor may suggest using chilled, over-the-counter artificial tears several times a day. This rehydrates and lubricates your eyes and dilutes the number of antigens in your tears.

White or Yellow Mucus Balls

White or yellow mucus balls and watery tears are common symptoms of dacryocystitis. This is the nasolacrimal sac or tear drainage system infection. If you have this condition, you may experience facial pain, redness, and swelling around the nasal area of the eyelid.

You may also notice a discharge leaving the puncta. This is a small drainage hole in the eyelid. This condition can become severe if you do not meet your eye doctor immediately for treatment with antibiotics.

How to Get Rid of Eye Discharge

Here are some ways to get rid of eye discharge:

Good Hygiene

Good hygiene can help reduce eye mucus. This includes removing makeup at night and keeping your eyes clean by rubbing the closed eyes with a clean, warm washcloth. 

Eye Drops

Eye drops from various brands are found online. However, speaking with an eye doctor before purchasing is suggested to ensure the product is safe for use. 

Proper Contact Lens Use

People with contact lenses who want to reduce their eye mucus should remove their lenses at night. They should also replace their contacts as recommended by their eye doctor and use the proper solutions to clean their lenses.

Warm Compress

Some people notice more eye boogers when they wake up in the morning. Applying a warm compress over the eyes for three to five minutes can help loosen the mucus. If there is enough discharge to make the eyelids stick shut in the morning, you should speak with your eye doctor to rule out a bacterial eye infection.

Eye Discharge in Babies 

Babies create eye mucus and may develop eye infections.

A baby with an eye discharge similar to an adult’s is typically healthy. However, some newborns have tear ducts that are not fully developed. This may lead the tear ducts to become blocked.

Babies with a blocked tear duct may develop green or yellow mucus throughout the day and not just when they wake up.

Babies with this kind of discharge may be tended to with a warm compress. If the eye becomes red, tender, or swollen, the baby may have an eye infection and should see a doctor.

Children with blocked tear ducts that do not improve by the age of one may require surgery to open the tear duct.

Summary

Eye discharge is normal for healthy people. You may see it when you wake up or after a long day. However, speak with your doctor if you experience excessive eye discharge with other symptoms. They can recommend ways to reduce eye discharge and determine if the issue is serious.