Does Having LASIK Affect Dry Eye?
For many, LASIK is a life-changing procedure that offers freedom from glasses and contact lenses. However, one of the most common concerns surrounding LASIK is its relationship with dry eye. Does LASIK cause dry eye? Can you still get LASIK if you already have dry eyes? Understanding the connection between LASIK and dry eye is essential for making an informed decision about vision correction surgery.
Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tear quality is compromised, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the eye’s surface. Symptoms include burning or stinging sensations, redness & irritation, sensitivity to light, excessive watering (a reaction to dryness) and a gritty or foreign body sensation in the eyes. A stable tear film, the thin layer of moisture covering the eye, is necessary for clear vision and comfort. LASIK can temporarily disrupt this tear film by affecting the corneal nerves responsible for tear production. This can lead to or worsen dry eye symptoms, particularly in the first few months following surgery.
If you have dry eye symptoms before LASIK, it does not necessarily mean you are ineligible for the procedure. However, your ophthalmologist will need to evaluate the severity of your condition. A comprehensive pre-surgery exam may include:
- Tear Production Tests – Measuring the volume and quality of your tears
- Cornell Health Assessment – Checking for any existing damage caused by dryness
- Tear Film Stability Tests – Evaluating how long your tears last before evaporating
If mild to moderate dry eye is detected, your doctor may recommend treatment before proceeding with LASIK. Management strategies include prescription eye drops to improve tear production, omega-3 supplements to enhance tear quality, punctal plugs to help retain moisture by preventing tears from draining too quickly, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy to reduce inflammation in the eyelid glands and lifestyle changes such as using humidifiers, staying hydrated and taking screen breaks.
If dry eye is severe and difficult to control, LASIK may not be the best option. Alternative vision correction procedures such as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), ICL (Implantable Collamer Lenses) or RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange) may be safer choices.
Most patients experience some degree of dry eye after LASIK surgery. This occurs because LASIK involves creating a corneal flap, which temporarily disrupts the nerves responsible for signaling tear production. Studies show that up to 95% of LASIK patients report dry eye symptoms in the early post-operative period, However, for most, symptoms gradually improve within 6-12 months as the nerves regenerate.
If you’re considering LASIK and have concerns about dry eye, schedule a consultation with an experienced eye doctor. With the right approach, you can achieve clearer vision while minimizing discomfort and protecting your eye health for the future. If you’re ready to take the next step toward clearer vision, we invite you to schedule an appointment for a LASIK consultation. Our team at Bonner Eye Clinic is here to assess your eye health, answer your questions, and help determine the best vision correction option for you. Contact us today at 218-326-3433 get started on your journey to better sight. For more details, visit WEBSITE.