Refractive Surgery - Yes or No?
Refractive Surgery, such as laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), have changed the lives of many people through out the world. While the visual improvement is often instant & life changing, the eyes can take time to heal.
Up to 95 percent of patients experience symptoms of dry eye during the first three months after surgery. And while this often improves with time healing continues, some patients are left with long term symptoms.
Considering Refractive Surgery?
Unfortunately there is no way to predict post-refractive surgery dryness for an individual patient, but pre-existing dry eye disease is a known risk factor for ocular surface problems after refractive surgery.
Talk to your surgeon first and ensure they do a thorough Dry Eye Assessment before you consider if surgery is the best fit for you. There are a variety of factors your surgeon will take into account to determine the best procedure to give you the best results.
If you have risk factors or signs of Dry Eye Disease or Meibomian Gland Dysfunction before surgery, you may want to consider managing that first. Being proactive from the outset can give you better outcomes.
Having Problems After Refractive Surgery?
If you’re someone who continues to have ongoing dry eye concerns following surgery, be reassured in most cases your symptoms should improve over the initial three to six months. If they continue a complete Dry Eye Assessment is recommended to give you individualise recommendations. No matter at what stage your’e at the following habits can help:
Look at your Omega-3 intake and consider increasing your intake or taking a supplement
Stay Hydrated
Sleep Well
Avoid Smoking & Vaping
Follow the 20-20 Rule and take visual breaks every 20 minutes at the screen
Use a good quality lubricant