Dry eyes are the complication resulted most commonly after the Lasik surgery, however, the condition is possible to set in control. The frequency of experiencing symptom is about 95% of the patients, who have undergone the Lasik surgery. The control of the condition is possible during the period of post-operation.
In most of the cases, dry eye condition after Lasik procedure gets continuously better, over time. In certain instances and in case of less care or treatment of the dry eyes may also lead to chronic and severe dry eyes.
Long-Term Dry Eye
The condition of the long time dry eye is through rare, this condition is hard to predict after the Lasik procedure and the possible duration of the symptoms. The length of this condition may be long in the following conditions.
- When the patient is female
- In cases of correction of vision to a greater degree
- When the patient experienced the problem of dry eye, before attempting Lasik procedure
- When the patient is from Asia
- When the patient has prior experience of wearing the contacts
- When diabetes is attacked
- In case nearsightedness is experienced
Why Dry Eye Condition After Lasik?
The cause for the dry eyes after the Lasik has not been completely understood by the researchers, however there are certain possible ideas. During the procedure of the Lasik, damage of corneal nerve is possible. It is because the cornea is reshaped by the surgeon, by removal of the tissues under the cornea. The nerve in this area may be cut to a certain extent and it is deliberately done as it does not affect the vision. However, it may result in break of communication, in between the tear glands and the cornea to some time. Ideally, this condition should be returned to a normal condition quickly.
There is another cause for dry eyes, called inflammation, resulting from the surgery. The shape of the cornea can affect the interaction of the eyelid with the eye surface. It has direct relation and affect to the production of tear and also blinking. The result is the dry eye.
Possible Length of Period
According to the statistics of the patients, who have undergone the Lasik procedure, the condition is intense during the first month after the procedure and lasts in between 6 months to 12 months.
When to See Surgeon?
When the standard treatments are followed with the kinds of artificial tears, etc., properly, the dry eye problem can be resolved to a greater extent. In case the dry eye condition is severe and pain is felt, then you should see your doctor immediately. In case the condition is mild, it is fine to wait until your next appointment with the doctor.