LASIK and Dry eyes – Everything you Need to Know

Dry eyes after LASIK are so common. It may occur in about half of all LASIK patients. In some conditions this situation is not temporary and mild, sometimes patients have to suffer from dry eyes for a few weeks or months after the procedure. Fortunately, screening for LASIK has led to advances in dry eye detection after then the doctors do treatment of their patients. Many LASIK patients want laser surgery to solve the problem of their eyes. Now they have the chance to tackle their pre-existing dry eye problem if they consult with an eye specialist. In some cases, LASIK can cause dry eyes as a side effect as during the procedure the laser probes the eye’s surface (corneal layer) and decreases corneal nerve sensitivity. Dry eyes after LASIK surgery can cause both discomfort and less than optimal visual outcome satisfaction their retina works properly their focus on light becomes accurate they can capture the image easily. For this reason, many eye surgeons now recommend that you use eye drops to help maintain optimum eye moisture.

What causes dry eyes after LASIK surgery?

Dry eyes after LASIK surgery are unlikely to appear, but if you are facing any trouble, the following reasons are to blame: 

• The laser used in the surgery causes a small cut in the corneal tissue, which also alters the nerves inside. It can reduce eye sensitivity to the point where fewer tears are produced, which can deficit the moisture creating the moisture in your eyes. 
• Sometimes, the eye surface might also become irritable or uncomfortable after LASIK surgery, causing discomfort and dryness. 

How long does dry eye last after LASIK?

Many people suffer from dry eyes after LASIK surgery, and most see a decrease in the symptoms within a few weeks or months. A small number of people still suffer from dry eyes a year after their procedure.

Your symptoms will decrease with time as your eye recovers and begins to make more tears for lubrication. During this time period, the nerves in the eye also regenerate the cornea.

Who faces the risk of dry eyes after LASIK?

If you suffer from dry eyes before LASIK is a risk factor, it doesn’t mean you are unable to get LASIK surgery. Your doctor will check your specific risk factors and weigh the benefits of the procedure. You may need to try another treatment for dry eyes before getting LASIK surgery.

Some other risk factors may prevent you from getting LASIK, including

• Certain eye conditions
• Autoimmune diseases
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Changing vision
• Unusually shaped or thin corneas
• Ocular herpes

Can dry eyes cause blurred vision after LASIK?

If you may experience blurred vision with dry eyes while you recover from the procedure. This can occur if your tears do not spread properly from your eye. It can make it difficult to focus light on your retina which leads to blurry vision. Blurred vision along with dry eyes should not be permanent it can recover over a period. Discuss any symptoms with your doctor to get proper treatment.

Other side effects of LASIK surgery:

• Discomfort
• Glare
• Blood-colored patches on the whites of the eye
• Swelling
• Infection
• Halos around lights at night

Dry eye symptoms after LASIK

Symptoms of dry eye after LASIK include:

• Dryness
• Discomfort or pain
• Eye tiredness
• Irritation
• Red eye

When to contact a doctor

Dry eye is common after LASIK surgery and at least for several months. It is important that a patient follow their doctor’s instructions during recovery and attend any follow-up appointments. A  patient should see a doctor if they suffer from worsening symptoms or if pain and other symptoms remain for many months after surgery.