Is light sensitivity normal after SLT laser treatment?

What's normal

The Glaucoma Research Foundation says post-operative inflammation after SLT is common but generally mild, and that the vast majority of SLT complications are mild and self-limiting. Inflammation inside the front of the eye is the usual reason lights feel harsh for a short time. StatPearls lists low-grade iritis, meaning mild inflammation in the front of the eye, among the recognized complications of laser trabeculoplasty.

This is also why anti-inflammatory eye drops are typically prescribed for a couple of days after the procedure, as both the Glaucoma Research Foundation and BrightFocus Foundation describe. Sunglasses outdoors and dimmer indoor lighting are reasonable comfort measures while it settles. Published sources do not give an exact number of days, so treat the day or two framing as the general take-it-easy window rather than a hard rule.

Usually mildest by the end of the first day or two, while the post-laser anti-inflammatory drops are in use.

When it stops being normal

Light sensitivity that is getting worse over several days, or that arrives alongside increasing pain, deepening redness, or dropping vision, should be reported. The American Academy of Ophthalmology lists eye redness, swelling, pain, and blurred vision among the possible complications of laser trabeculoplasty.

Rainbow-colored rings or halos around lights, especially with severe eye pain, headache, nausea, or sudden blurry vision, is the emergency pattern the American Academy of Ophthalmology describes for a sharp rise in eye pressure. Call your ophthalmologist right away rather than waiting for your scheduled visit.