The best way to treat dry eyes after LASIK is to follow your surgeon’s recommendations, stay consistent with prescribed eye drops, and give your eyes time to heal.
While dry eyes are among the most common side effects of LASIK, they’re typically mild and temporary, and there are several effective ways to alleviate discomfort and speed up recovery.
If you’ve recently undergone LASIK surgery, you might be experiencing symptoms like itchiness, redness, or a persistent dry sensation in your eyes. This is entirely normal and happens because LASIK temporarily affects the nerves in your cornea, reducing tear production. But the good news is that there are proactive steps you can take to manage dry eyes and promote healing.
Here’s everything you need to know to treat dry eyes after LASIK.
What Causes Dry Eyes After LASIK?
Before we jump into treatments, let’s look at why dry eyes happen in the first place after LASIK. During the LASIK procedure, some of the tiny nerves on the surface of the cornea are cut. These nerves play an essential role in signalling your glands to produce tears. With these signals temporarily interrupted, your eyes may not produce enough tears to stay moisturised.
Environmental factors, personal health conditions, or pre-existing dry eyes can also magnify the severity of post-LASIK dryness. Factors such as staring at a screen for extended periods, low humidity, or a history of contact lens wear may increase the likelihood of experiencing dry eyes after your surgery.
Signs and Symptoms of Post-LASIK Dry Eyes
Post-LASIK dry eyes can manifest in various forms, and knowing the symptoms can help you address them early on. Common signs include:
- A gritty or sandy sensation in the eyes
- Redness or irritation
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision caused by inconsistent tear coverage
- Excessive tearing (as your eyes overcompensate for lack of lubrication)
- Difficulty wearing makeup or keeping your eyes open for long periods
While these symptoms are typical immediately following LASIK, they tend to subside as the corneal nerves regenerate—usually within 6 months.
Treatments for Dry Eyes After LASIK
Now that we understand the causes and symptoms of post-LASIK dry eyes, let’s explore effective treatment options to regain comfort and maintain healthy eyes.
1. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
The first step in managing dry eyes after LASIK is following the post-operative care plan prescribed by your surgeon. Your doctor will most likely recommend a combination of artificial tears, anti-inflammatory drops, and ointments to speed up healing and keep your eyes moistened. Stick to this regimen religiously to ensure an optimal outcome.
2. Use Preservative-Free Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter artificial tears are a lifesaver for treating dry eyes after LASIK. It’s essential to choose preservative-free options, as preservatives can irritate healing eyes. These drops help to supplement natural tear production, soothe irritation, and reduce the “gritty” sensation you may feel.
Aim to apply artificial tears every 1 to 2 hours during the initial days after surgery and gradually reduce use as your symptoms improve.
3. Warm Compresses to Stimulate Tear Glands
Applying warm compresses to your eyes can help stimulate the production of the oily layer of your tears. This layer prevents tears from evaporating too quickly, providing longer-lasting relief. To do this:
- Use a clean, soft washcloth and immerse it in warm water.
- Wring it out and place it gently over closed eyes for 10 minutes.
- Repeat twice daily for optimal results.
4. Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is vital for maintaining tear production. Drinking enough water daily ensures your body has the resources it needs to produce healthy tears. Aim for at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day, and consider reducing alcohol or caffeine intake, which can contribute to dehydration.
5. Take Omega-3 Supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseed oil, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to improve tear production. Talk to your doctor about adding an omega-3 supplement to your diet. A typical dosage ranges from 2,000 to 3,000 mg per day, depending on your individual needs and medical approval.
Alternatively, incorporate omega-3-rich foods into your diet, such as salmon, mackerel, walnuts, and chia seeds.
6. Limit Screen Time
Prolonged screen use is one of the most common exacerbators of dry eyes. When staring at a screen, people tend to blink less frequently, causing tears to evaporate faster. Protect your eyes by:
- Taking breaks following the “20-20-20 rule”: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Blinking consciously and more frequently while working on a computer, to rehydrate your eyes.
- Using a humidifier if working in a dry, air-conditioned environment.
7. Apply Punctal Plugs (If Necessary)
If artificial tears are not providing sufficient relief, your eye surgeon might recommend punctal plugs. These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to block tear drainage, allowing your eyes to retain moisture longer. These plugs are safe, effective, and reversible.
8. Prescription Eye Drops
For more severe cases of post-LASIK dry eyes, your doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops, such as cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra). These medications work by reducing inflammation and encouraging the production of natural tears. Use them as directed to achieve long-term improvements.
9. Avoid Irritants
During the healing period, protect your eyes from environmental factors that can worsen dryness, such as:
- Dust and wind (wear sunglasses outdoors to shield your eyes)
- Cigarette smoke
- Harsh chemicals or makeup
- Prolonged use of air-conditioning or heaters
By creating a more eye-friendly environment, you’ll support your body’s natural healing processes.
10. Prioritise Sleep and Rest
Finally, never underestimate the importance of rest. Good-quality sleep allows your eyes to recover and regenerate after surgery. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep per night and avoid activities that could strain your eyes during the first few weeks of recovery, such as reading in dim light or staying up late.
Managing Expectations for Post-LASIK Recovery
Most patients find that dry eye symptoms improve significantly within the first few weeks post-surgery, but it can take up to 6 months for complete resolution. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any lingering symptoms or concerns—they’re there to support you throughout the recovery process.
Remember, dry eyes are not a failure of LASIK. Instead, they are temporary side effects that can be effectively managed with the right treatment and care.
When to Seek Further Help
Although rare, if your dry eye symptoms persist for more than six months or severely impact your daily life, schedule a follow-up appointment with your LASIK surgeon. Persistent dryness may require advanced treatments, including scleral contact lenses.
Taking Care of Your Vision Post-LASIK
Your LASIK procedure is an investment in exceptional vision. By addressing dry eyes promptly and comprehensively, you’re taking an important step toward enjoying the full benefits of the surgery. Keep your eyes hydrated, follow your doctor’s advice, and treat your eyes with the care they deserve.
Are your dry eyes persisting, or do you have questions about post-LASIK care? Schedule a follow-up consultation with your surgeon today to keep your recovery on track.
