Wearing Sunglasses After LASIK

UV rays are as damaging to the eyes as they are to the skin, so it is important for everyone, including children, to wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection whenever they are outdoors, even on overcast days. After LASIK or other refractive surgery, your eyes will be fragile, and protective eyewear is even more critical.

Light sensitivity - a possible LASIK side effect
After LASIK surgery, some people find that their eyes are more sensitive to light than before. This side effect is temporary and mild for most, but some develop a more severe form called Transient Light Sensitivity (TLS). TLS is most often seen in patients who've had IntraLase LASIK. If you experience any light sensitivity after your LASIK surgery, you will probably find a good pair of dark sunglasses very helpful.

Prevent corneal haze
Another possible side effect of refractive surgery is corneal haze. As part of the healing response, opaque cells can grow, which interfere with the passage of light through the cornea. This is called corneal haze, and it results in the patient having foggy or blurry vision.

It is believed that exposure to UV rays can trigger or worsen this condition in the months following LASIK, so you should wear sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection whenever you are outdoors for the first year after surgery.

The UV radiation you get in a tanning bed is much more intense than regular sunlight, and sunglasses aren't enough protection. If you want the best possible eyesight after surgery, it is probably best to refrain from tanning for at least a year. If you absolutely cannot go without tanning, make sure that you wear protective goggles designed for use in a tanning bed.

Tanning salons are legally required to provide goggles to clients, but the pair you get could be ill-fitting, damaged, or worn. To guarantee the best possible protection for your delicate, post-surgical eyes, you should purchase a pair for yourself and make sure they fit snugly before you go tanning.

Many styles and colors to choose from
Sunglasses come in many shapes, styles and colors, both with prescription lenses and without. Whether you prefer inexpensive casual frames or trendy designer brands, you will likely find glasses that fit your style at your local optical shop. Just make sure that whatever you choose has 100% UVA/UVB protection (most pairs will have a sticker advertising this). Those dollar-store sunglasses just won't cut it.

If possible, choose a style that blocks as much light as possible, not just from the front, but from the top, bottom, and sides as well. Wraparound sunglasses are often a good choice. If you are a swimmer, don't forget to look for goggles with UV protection also.

UV protection and lens color/tint are completely unrelated. It is possible to get sunglasses with very light lenses that offer 100% UV protection, and very dark sunglasses that offer none. If you already own a pair of sunglasses but are unsure if they offer protection, your local eye care professional can test them for you.

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