Medics Healthlog

Flashes and Glare After a Cataract Operation
By Justin K Ng'andwe. COOi

What is it?
After a cataract operation, some people notice flashes, streaks, or rings of light around lamps, car headlights, or bright objects. This is called positive dysphotopsia — but simply put, it means seeing extra light effects after getting your artificial lens.

Why does it happen?
The artificial lens placed in your eye can sometimes bend or reflect light in unusual ways.
This happens when:

Light bounces off the edges of the lens

The lens reflects light inside your eye, creating glare or ghost-like images

You’re more likely to notice this if:

Your lens has sharp edges

Your replacement lens has a strong prescription

You’re in dim light (your pupils open wider and let in more light)

Will it go away?
In most cases, yes. These light effects usually fade as your brain gets used to your new vision. This adjustment process is called neuroadaptation, and it can take a few weeks to months.

When should you be concerned?
See your eye doctor immediately if:

The flashes appear suddenly

They don’t go away

You also see new floaters (small moving spots) or dark shadows

These could be signs of a retinal problem, which needs urgent attention.

Interesting fact:
A little cloudiness behind your artificial lens (called posterior capsule opacity) can actually make these light effects less noticeable — almost like a natural filter reducing the glare.

Bottom line:
Flashes or glare after a cataract operation are common and usually harmless. They often get better on their own, but if anything changes suddenly or feels unusual, don’t hesitate to contact your eye specialist.

Understanding Cataract: Restoring Sight, Restoring Lives 👁️✨

Cataract is one of the leading causes of blindness globally, and Zambia is no exception. A cataract occurs when the clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare, difficulty seeing at night, and eventually, total blindness if left untreated.

👨🏽‍⚕️ Who is at Risk?
Cataracts are most commonly found in older adults, but they can also occur in younger individuals due to:

1. Injury to the eye

2. Diabetes

3. Prolonged exposure to sunlight (UV rays)

4. Smoking

5. Certain medications such as steroids

🩺 How is Cataract Treated?
The only effective treatment for cataract is surgery. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery is safe, quick, and highly effective, often taking less than 30 minutes.

✅ The Benefits of Cataract Surgery:

1. Clearer, sharper vision

2. Improved independence and quality of life

4. Better mobility and reduced risk of falls

5. Restored ability to work or carry out daily activities

💬 COMING SOON!
In the coming weeks, we will be sharing powerful testimonials from clients in Sinazongwe, Southern Province, who have undergone cataract surgery in local language. Their stories highlight the life-changing impact of restored vision and the relief and joy of being able to see clearly again. You can share these stories with the aim of combatting the myths.

📍Stay tuned and be inspired by their experiences. You might just be encouraged to help someone in need or come forward if you or a loved one is suffering from poor vision.

👀 Let’s bring sight to light!

Lusaka Eye Hospital

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