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.
Could my vision change after Lasik? As we mentioned above, the laser makes permanent changes to the shape of the cornea. This cannot be reversed; however, sometimes vision can continue to change as a person ages. In this case, you may notice changes to your vision over the years even if you've undergone Lasik surgery.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There is no cure for dry eye, but the condition can be successfully managed. Treatment may aim to increase tear production, maintain tear film volume or prevent excess loss of tears. A range of options may be used, including: Make a conscious effort to blink more often.
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.
How likely is dry eye to occur after LASIK? Out of all the possible side effects of LASIK, dry eye is actually by far the most likely to occur. In fact, roughly 95 percent of all patients who undergo the procedure experience the symptoms of dry eye syndrome to some degree immediately afterwards.
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.
For most patients, the results of LASIK will last a lifetime. About 10-12% of patients nationwide will need an enhancement surgery because of anatomical changes to the eye/eyes.
Serious complications are rare and, if you do have any problems after surgery, they can usually be corrected. Cataracts (when the lenses in the eyes become cloudy) may develop earlier in life after PIOL. RLE is basically the same as cataract surgery.
If left untreated, severe dry eyes may lead to eye inflammation, abrasion of the corneal surface, corneal ulcers and vision loss. Decreased quality of life. Dry eyes can make it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as reading.
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.
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.
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.
With modern LASIK, the enhancement rate is 1-2 percent in the first 12 months and then about 1 percent a year after that as patients' eyes can change with time. So, for example, 10 years after LASIK, approximately 10 percent of patients may require an enhancement procedure to maintain their excellent vision.