LASIK is one of the most effective ways to correct vision problems. It rectifies refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism by reshaping the cornea.
However, some patients who underwent LASIK experienced dry eye symptoms following the procedure. Opti-Care, your leading eye care services provider specializing in dry eye treatments, sheds light on this.
Is LASIK a Trigger for Dry Eyes?
There is truth to the notion that LASIK causes dry eyes—up to 95% of patients reported varying degrees of dry eye symptoms after the procedure. However, many of these patients already had dry eyes before the procedure and reported that their symptoms actually improved after they recovered from LASIK. Chronic dry eye following LASIK occurs in rare cases.
The LASIK screening process for patients has led to advances in detecting and treating dry eye symptoms. Patients who have dry eye syndrome before undergoing LASIK can address the issue during their LASIK consultation with an eye doctor.
How LASIK Causes Dry Eyes
Corneal sensitivity is reduced to some degree due to some nerves in the cornea being cut during the LASIK procedure. In response, your eyes may not require lubrication, limiting tear production that leads to symptoms of dry eyes following the surgery.
Patients may experience discomfort and less than optimal visual outcomes, which is why eye surgeons recommend the use of lubricating eye drops or other therapies to keep the eyes moist. Even if there are no symptoms, treatments to increase eye lubrication may be given before the LASIK procedure.
To find out if you are a good candidate for the procedure, visit a local eye care service center. At Opti-Care, we don’t just provide prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses—we also offer preoperative LASIK consultations and post-surgical care for LASIK patients, as well as dry eye treatments.
Call us today at (410) 795-8670 or fill out our contact form to request an appointment. We serve residents of Westminster, MD, and the surrounding communities.