Dry Eye after LASIK

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can occur after undergoing LASIK, PRK, or other types of refractive surgery. Post-LASIK dry eye symptoms occur when the tear ducts do not produce enough tears to keep the eyes moist, lubricated, and protected from environmental factors. The result is that the eyes become dry and uncomfortable, with some patients reporting a “gritty” sensation along with pain, stinging, and occasional blurred vision. Although it is a frequent side effect of refractive surgery, dry eye syndrome can be irritating enough to interfere with day-to-day activities. To avoid dry eye after LASIK, patients should be sure to discuss prevention and treatment options with their ophthalmologist prior to refractive surgery and have their doctor screen for dry eye symptoms.

Refractive Surgery and Dry Eye Syndrome

Post-LASIK dry eye syndrome is one of the most frequent side effects of laser vision correction. Refractive surgery and dry eye symptoms go hand in hand, as dry eyes are simply a physical response to the nature of the procedure. In normal, healthy eyes, the corneal nerves supply information to the lacrimal (tear-producing) glands, maintaining a constant stream of tears. During refractive surgery, the corneal nerves are temporarily damaged, and are thus unable to produce adequate tears while the eyes are healing. As the patient recovers, so do the corneal nerves, and in most cases the tear ducts resume their normal functioning within a few weeks.

However, some patients with dry eye after LASIK will suffer more severe symptoms than others. For this reason, it is imperative that patients discuss any preexisting symptoms with their doctor before undergoing refractive surgery. The link between refractive surgery and dry eye symptoms is well established, and for this reason, most surgeons insist on screening for dry eye prior to refractive surgery. They evaluate the patient’s current tear film and decide whether they should be treated for dry eyes in advance.

Post-LASIK Dry Eye Symptoms

Patients should be prepared for some post-LASIK dry eye symptoms, including pain, itchiness, redness, and bouts of blurred vision. It is important that patients use the moisturizing eye drops prescribed by their physician several times a day in the weeks following surgery. Not only will this help alleviate dry eye symptoms, it will also promote quicker healing of the cornea. Post-LASIK dry eye syndrome can last anywhere from a few weeks to two months as the corneal nerves heal and the eyes once again produce a sufficient tear film.

Chronic Dry Eye after LASIK

If post-LASIK dry eye symptoms persist, they can develop into chronic dry eye syndrome. In a certain percentage of patients, dry eye after LASIK may last for a prolonged period of time and can even become permanent. It is crucial that patients consider the potential for chronic dry eye after LASIK among the risks associated with refractive surgery. Although there are several dry eye treatment options available for post-LASIK dry eye, prevention should always be a top priority. Be sure your doctor screens for pre-LASIK dry eye symptoms before you undergo refractive surgery.

Locate an Eye Care Specialist through DocShop

Aside from understanding the link between refractive surgery and dry eye symptoms, the most important prevention tactic patients can take against post-LASIK dry eye syndrome is choosing a qualified surgeon. Patients should be sure that their ophthalmologist is credentialed and has extensive experience performing LASIK surgeries. This kind of research can play a crucial role in preventing or properly relieving dry eye after LASIK, as well as in ensuring high quality treatment. To find a qualified LASIK surgeon in your area, consult DocShop's ophthalmologist directory.