Treating Dysphotopsia After Laser Peripheral Iridotomy

What is Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)?
Laser peripheral iridotomy is a simple, office-based procedure used to prevent a serious eye condition called angle-closure glaucoma. This condition usually occurs in people over the age of 40, especially those who are farsighted (hyperopic). It happens when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, causing a sudden increase in eye pressure, leading to severe pain, blurred vision, and even permanent vision loss if not treated quickly.

How does the procedure work?
In LPI, a laser is used to create a tiny hole in the iris (the colored part of the eye). This hole helps balance the pressure between the front and back parts of the eye, reducing the risk of angle-closure glaucoma.

What is Dysphotopsia?

After LPI, some patients experience dysphotopsia, a visual disturbance where they see light streaks, glare, or shadows, especially in bright light or at night. While this side effect is not harmful, it can be annoying and may affect quality of life.

In most cases, these visual symptoms fade over time as the brain adjusts and patients no longer notice them. However, for a small number of people, dysphotopsia can persist.

Treatment for Persistent Dysphotopsia

When dysphotopsia does not go away on its own, one option is a procedure called partial keratopigmentation, also known as corneal tattooing. In this treatment, a special pigment is applied to the outer layer of the cornea to block the stray light that causes visual disturbances.

At Kaşkaloğlu Eye Hospital, we have successfully performed this technique for patients who suffer from persistent dysphotopsia after LPI. The procedure is:

• Safe and low-risk

• Minimally invasive

• Performed in the clinic

• Effective in many cases

While not every patient experiences complete relief, most report significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing visual disturbances after laser peripheral iridotomy, you are not alone—and there are solutions. Contact our clinic to schedule an evaluation and learn whether corneal tattooing for dysphotopsia could be right for you.