If you’re thinking about getting LASIK eye surgery, you’re probably excited to see clearly without glasses or contacts. But you might also be wondering about potential side effects, such as dry eyes. It’s a common concern but understanding what to expect and how long dry eye symptoms might last can help you feel more prepared.
How long does dry eye last after LASIK surgery?
Dry eye after LASIK is something many people experience, and it’s usually temporary. LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea with a laser, which can temporarily affect your eyes’ ability to produce and distribute tears properly. As a result, you might feel dryness, irritation, or a gritty sensation. These side effects are normal and usually improve as your eyes heal. Most people experience the peak of dry eye symptoms in the first few weeks after surgery. During this time, you might need to use artificial tears regularly to keep your eyes comfortable.
By the one- to three-month mark, many people find that their dry eye symptoms improve significantly. Your eyes should start feeling more comfortable as they continue to heal. For some, it may take up to six months to a year for dry eye symptoms to completely go away. While this may seem long, most people can find relief with the right care. It is rare for dry eye symptoms to last for more than a year after LASIK.
Relieving dry eyes after LASIK
If you’re dealing with post-LASIK dry eye, artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can provide quick relief and help keep your eyes moist. Your eye doctor can recommend a specific type that works best for you. Drinking plenty of water is good for your overall health and can help with tear production, and using a humidifier at home can keep the air from getting too dry. It’s also important to avoid dry or windy environments whenever possible, as they can worsen dry eye symptoms. Additionally, taking frequent breaks from screens can help prevent or relieve discomfort.
When to see a professional
While dry eye is usually temporary, there are times when you should see your eye doctor. If your dry eye symptoms last for more than a few months or start affecting your daily life, let your eye doctor know. They can examine your eyes and recommend the best treatment for your needs. You should also contact them immediately if you experience severe eye pain or notice vision changes.
In more severe cases of dry eye, your eye doctor may prescribe prescription-strength eye drops or recommend other treatments such as punctal plugs to help retain moisture in your eyes. At Lighthouse Vision, we offer dry eye treatment in Milford, including OptiLight IPL (intense pulse light) therapy for dry eye caused by inflammation and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). This not only relieves dry eye symptoms but can also address the underlying cause.
While experiencing dry eye after LASIK surgery can be uncomfortable, it’s important to remember that in most cases these symptoms are temporary and will improve over time. If you have any concerns or questions about post-LASIK dry eye, call us or schedule an appointment online today. We will help you find the best treatment to fit your needs and provide you with lasting relief.
