Choosing the Right Sunglasses after LASIK

After LASIK, you may decide to ditch your prescription sunglasses or transition lenses. You may want to hold onto those lenses, just in case you find you can still benefit from them sometimes. If you also want to buy a new pair of sunglasses, here are some tips for choosing the most effective kinds.

When trying on sunglasses, look for:

• Wide, wraparound frames to block out light at every angle.
• Complete UVA/UVB protection – should block 99 to 100 percent.
• Dark lenses to block visible light that strains your eyes.
• Polarized lenses to reduce outdoor glare.

After your LASIK surgery, your eye surgeon may provide you with wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes. After your procedure, your eyes will be very sensitive to sunlight, and you should make sure you have sunglasses with adequate coverage and UVA/UVB protection.

Sunglasses are important for everyone, and in every season. The cumulative effect of UV rays in your unprotected eyes can be quite damaging. This damage can increase your risk of vision disorders like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. You can also get a sunburn on your cornea, a condition known as "snow blindness," especially if you engage in snow sports or other outdoor recreation without sunglasses.

Of course, you should also choose a pair of sunglasses you like. It is important to wear your sunglasses most days, especially in the first year after LASIK.

To learn more about what to expect after LASIK surgery, please contact an experienced eye surgeon in your area.