Dry Eye After LASIK Surgery

LASIK is a procedure that permanently changes the shape of the cornea, the clear covering of the front of the eye, using an excimer laser. LASIK eye surgery is basically for people who are nearsighted or farsighted and have astigmatism. The goal of LASIK surgery is to change the curvature of the cornea, which is the outermost part of the eye. It allows the person to see without glasses or contacts. After the surgery some patients may develop severe dry eye syndrome, which can be treated with artificial tears and usually takes six months to recover.

On completion of LASIK surgery, the regular nerve impulses that direct the lacrimal gland to produce tears are often interrupted. It is considered an expected phase of the healing process. Dry eyes cause gritty and uncomfortable sensations. In order to avoid this condition, a surgeon carefully examines the eyes and recommends lubricating and moisturizing drops to the patients. They are also advised to keep the eye adequately bathed in tears for the eyes to heal properly and also refrain from overusing the drops.

Dry eye problems range from less serious to more serious complications. While a patient experiences itching, redness, or pain after the vision correction surgery, there are others who face minor problems that can be solved with topical treatments for the eyes. In order to resolve the serious cases of dry eye problem, a tiny plug is inserted that prevents tears from going to the nose and allows lubrication in the eye. People also rely on flax seed oil caplets and a humidifier in their home, which relieves the dry, scratchy feeling. New treatments for dry eyes include collagen or silicone punctal plugs and punctal cautery. These greatly reduce symptoms, promote healing and improve vision by enhancing the quantity and quality of the eye's natural tear film.

In less serious cases, the patient's eyes return to their normal or near normal lubrication levels in a short period.