LASIK can restore your vision in just one short visit. However, some patients may experience temporary LASIK side effects for several weeks after the procedure. In this article, we discuss one of the most common side effects, dry eyes, and talk about its causes, symptoms, and solutions.
Dry Eyes After LASIK: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Experiencing eye dryness after LASIK is a very common side effect that is typically temporary and subsides gradually as the eyes heal. In fact, up to 95% of people start to experience dryness after the procedure. In most cases, this side effect goes away within 6 to 12 months.
Dry eyes after LASIK are caused by corneal nerve disruption when your surgeon creates the flap and cuts tiny nerves in the eye. This disrupts the signals between the cornea and brain, leading to temporarily reduced tear production.
Additionally, the condition can be exacerbated by the following factors:
- Postoperative inflammation
- Environmental factors, such as air conditioning, wind, and increased screen time
- Preexisting conditions, such as dry eye disease and high myopia
- Old age
Other side effects connected to dry eyes you may experience after LASIK include:
- Burning, stinging, or itchy sensation in the eyes
- Gritty or foreign body sensation in the eyes
- Blurry vision or fluctuating vision
- Light sensitivity
- Eye fatigue
What to Do if You Experience Dry Eyes After LASIK
Consult Your Surgeon
If eye dryness is persistent, keeps causing discomfort, and is accompanied by severe itchiness, stinging, or burning, make a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to exclude infection as the cause of your symptoms.
Lubricating Eye Drops
Lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, can be recommended for use throughout the day to keep the eyes moist and reduce LASIK side effects such as itchiness, burning, and blurry vision.
Prescription Eye Drops
If over-the-counter lubricating eye drops do not produce the desired effect, we recommend consulting your doctor. You may be prescribed medications, such as cyclosporine (Restasis), which reduce inflammation and, in turn, help with dryness. Additionally, you may be prescribed immunomodulators for long-term use to boost natural tear production.
Punctal Plugs
If over-the-counter or prescription drops are not enough to deal with dryness, your doctor might recommend punctal plugs, small, dissolvable, or silicone plugs inserted into the tear ducts. This solution helps keep natural tears in the eye longer. Punctal plugs can offer a significant reduction in itching and burning, improve vision stability, and reduce the need for frequent use of artificial tears.
Lifestyle Changes
Some patients may find the following lifestyle changes beneficial when it comes to dealing with dry eyes after LASIK:
- Reduce screen time and take breaks every 20 minutes when using a screen or reading
- Try to blink often to moisturize the eye naturally
- Place a humidifier next to where you work and sleep, aiming for 40 to 60% humidity in the rooms where you spend most of your time.
- Try not to spend a lot of time directly next to air conditioning or heating systems
- Wear wraparound sunglasses outside to protect your eyes from bright sunlight and wind
- Use warm compresses for 10 to 15 minutes daily to stimulate tear production
- Reduce intake of alcohol and excessive caffeine, as both can contribute to overall systemic dehydration, and drink plenty of water throughout the day
Make an Appointment at Advanced Eye Medical
If you are considering LASIK or need post-procedure care, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced eye surgeon at Advanced Eye Medical. We are looking forward to your visit.