Post-LASIK dry eye symptoms are usually mild, and they typically don't last long. However, in some cases dry eye can persist for months or years. The reason so many people experience dry eye following LASIK is that the creation of the corneal flaps affects the nerves that regulate the production of tears.
But LASIK itself isn't often the trigger for the dry eye. Nearly half to three-quarters of the people reporting dry eye had symptoms of it before the surgery. Dry eye after LASIK typically gets better over time. But in rare cases, LASIK can lead to severe and chronic dry eyes.
Virtually all patients experience dry eyes after LASIK. Six months after LASIK approximately 20% of patients in FDA-required clinical trials continue to report dry eyes. Other studies demonstrate that 30% to 50% of LASIK patients experience chronic dry eyes persisting beyond one year after surgery.
Your Eyesight after LASIK
Your vision may change after surgery, but if it does, LASIK will still be a benefit. Changes in vision are typically minor, and most patients report better eyesight for a lifetime after their LASIK procedures.
Dry eye is a chronic condition. It doesn't have a cure, but treatments can help manage your symptoms. You may have to try several different treatments to find what works best for you. This can be a stressful process, but it's worth the effort.
Dry eye symptoms include a dry, gritty or burning sensation in the eyes, redness, watery or teary eyes and mucus that make the eyes feel "glued shut" after sleeping. Many people also report the feeling of something in the eye or eyestrain. Itching and light sensitivity may also occur.
During cauterization, an ophthalmologist applies heat to the puncta in each eye, permanently closing the duct and thus preventing tears from draining out of the eyes. This procedure is performed in the ophthalmologist's office.
Chronic dry eye disease can damage ocular tissues and in very serious cases, lead to scarring of the cornea, the clear dome of tissue that covers the front part of the eye. This damage can cause blurry vision and in severe instances, vision loss.
Omega-3 fatty acids are not usually the primary treatment for dry eye, but are often recommended in addition to a more central line of treatment like eye drops or prescription medications.
Visual Irregularities: Some LASIK patients report seeing a number of visual irregularities for months or years after the surgery. These irregularities can include blurry vision, the appearance of ghosts or other artifacts, halos and starbursts around lights, and a significant loss of the ability to see details.
However, in a small number of people, the lens may undergo age-related changes. Such changes may cause a person to develop blurry vision after a few years of LASIK surgery. The following factors can cause myopia to return after the LASIK: Having high myopia (myopia above -6.00 D)
Vitamin A deficiency, which usually occurs in developing countries, can cause an increase in dry eye. By adding foods rich in Vitamin A, like carrots, pumpkins, apricots, spinach, tomatoes, dairy products and liver, you can prevent the development of this condition.
Treatments for Mild Dry Eye:
Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps produce natural tears more effectively. Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine, which has a drying/diuretic effect.
exposure to low air humidity, such as a long airplane ride. uninterrupted screen time including: working at a computer, watching TV or scrolling through a phone. prolonged contact lens wear. seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.
Here are 5 signs to consider scheduling an appointment:
Burning, stinging, scratching or watery eyes, especially in windy conditions. Fluctuating vision especially with a computer or digital device use, even after buying a high-quality pair of glasses. Little relief from prescription eye drops, such as Restasis®
A new treatment for dry eye disease is providing relief for people with certain forms of the condition. Called intense pulse light therapy or IPL, the treatment can be performed in your doctor's office and has been very effective.
You may be able to manage your dry eyes with frequent eyelid washing and use of nonprescription eye drops or other products that help lubricate your eyes. If your condition is long term (chronic), use eye drops even when your eyes feel fine to keep them well lubricated.
The damage is usually reversible, but sustained loss of the epithelial cells can cause discomfort, vision loss, increased risk of infection, and possible permanent scarring of the cornea.
There is a myth that LASIK, after 10 years, wears off. But, LASIK is permanent. LASIK permanently corrects the vision prescription that you have at the time of surgery. This means that it cannot wear off.