What causes dry eyes after laser vision correction?
LASIK and PRK decrease the normal amount of lubrication of the eye. The corneal nerves supply information to the lacrimal gland to supply a continual amount of lubrication. LASIK and PRK surgery severs the corneal nerves so that they can no longer supply the appropriate information, leading to dry eyes. Over the course of weeks to months to years, the nerves heal, and the lubrication level of the eye can return to normal. However some patients with pre-existing dry eyes are at risk for prolonged dry eyes that can cause significant symptoms, and some patients even years after surgery have dryer eyes than before surgery. In general, the use of artificial tears is important following LASIK and PRK. Careful discussion with our nurse both before and after surgery is important in determining the amount of lubrication required. In severe dry eye cases, patients can use a punctal plug. A punctal plug is a plastic plug that prevents the outflow of tears from your eye to the nose. This devise ca
