Dry Eye and LASIK Questions Answered

Prior to LASIK surgery, your doctor will check your medical history and look for a variety of conditions, including dry eyes. It is important to let your doctor know if you suffer from dry eye prior to surgery, as your surgeon may want to treat it before surgery.

LASIK surgery is designed to improve vision with minimal side effects.  Since the surgery involves altering the curvature of the cornea, which can affect the make up of tear film, dry eyes can sometimes result from LASIK. Dry eye is so common that as many as half of all LASIK patients report it after the surgery, although many had it before the surgery as well.

If you’ve had LASIK and seem to have a problem with dry eyes, you should consult your surgeon.  Dry eyes can be treated with preservative-free artificial tear drops.  If you suffer from dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) topical cyclosporine prescription eye drops can also be of benefit.  Increasing the frequency of blinking can also help.

If you have questions about the risks and benefits of LASIK or the likelihood of dry eye and LASIK, please consult Charleston Cornea & Refractive Surgery in Charleston at 843-856-5275 or charlestoncornea.com.