Top 5 Tips for Dry Eyes After LASIK Eye Surgery

October 11, 2024

Before we begin, congratulations on taking the leap towards clearer vision with LASIK eye surgery!

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular procedure used to correct common vision problems such as myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), and astigmatism (an imperfection in the curvature of the cornea). It involves using a laser to reshape your cornea, which allows light to focus properly onto your retina. The result is clear (wink)—sharper vision and lowers the need for spectacles or contact lenses.

However, like any surgery, it comes with a few side effects. If you’ve been following us closely, you most likely know a thing or two about the pros and cons of LASIK, with one of the most common side effects being dry eyes.

Why Do I Have Dry Eyes After LASIK?

Dry eyes are a common side effect experienced by many patients after LASIK surgery. This is because the procedure temporarily disrupts your eye’s natural tear production system, leading to dry, gritty, or irritated eyes.

This can be a bit of a bummer, but don’t worry! Dry eyes after LASIK are usually temporary. It will improve as your eyes heal and the tear film stabilises. With proper care, you can even speed up the healing process.

Here are some helpful tips to keep your eyes comfortable and support a smooth recovery.

How Do I Fix Dry Eyes After LASIK?

#1 – Use Prescribed Eye Drops

Your ophthalmologist (eye doctor) will likely prescribe preservative-free lubricating eye drops to use after LASIK surgery. These drops, often called artificial tears, help keep your eyes lubricated and relieved from discomfort. They replenish the water layer in your tears and mimic the natural tears that your body produces.

The eye drops usually come in single-dose vials, so you can carry them with you easily and take them out when needed.

How to treat dry eyes after LASIK? Use the eye drops exactly as prescribed. Follow your eye doctor’s instructions on how and when to use them. Don’t skip doses, overuse, or underuse eye drops because it can impact the effectiveness of the treatment.

#2 – Avoid Environmental Triggers

Dry environments are the enemy of dry eyes! Air conditioning, ceiling fans, smoke, and even staying too long outdoors in dry weather can worsen the symptoms of dry eyes.

To combat this, you should avoid such trigger factors whenever possible by:

  • Getting shade from the sun: When outdoors, try to stay in shady areas and avoid direct exposure to wind or air currents.
  • Investing in a humidifier: If avoidance of symptoms isn’t feasible indoors, use a humidifier to enhance humidity in the air. This creates an eye-friendly environment in your home or office. It also helps in improving your quality of sleep at night.
  • Practising good eyelid hygiene: Maintaining the cleanliness of your eyelids helps prevent clogged oil glands and promotes healthier tear production. Perform warm compression with a warm, wet washcloth and gently clean your eyelid margin (the edge of your eyelid) with a mild cleaning solution recommended by your doctor. Rinse your eyes thoroughly with warm water.

#3 – Take Breaks From the Screen

We all know screen time can be addictive, but staring at screens for extended periods can contribute to dry eyes.

Why? Because when you’re focusing on your screen, you’ll blink less. This will prevent your tears from spreading evenly across your eyes.

Here are some tips and DIY treatments for dry eyes that you can practise at home to give your eyes a break:

  • The 20-20-20 rule: After 20 minutes on-screen, look at an object 20 feet (6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps reduce digital eye strain and relax your eye muscles.
  • Reduce overall screen time: Try to limit unnecessary screen time, especially before bed. Reading a book or engaging in other activities that don’t involve screens can be alternatives to unwind and give your eyes a rest.

Whether you’re working in front of a computer, watching TV, or using a smartphone, it’s important to give your eyes frequent breaks from the screen—with or without LASIK surgery involved. 

#4 – Wear Protective Eyewear to Protect Your Peepers

Your eyes are more sensitive after LASIK surgery. They become more susceptible to environmental irritants like dust, wind, and bright light. Putting on protective eyewear can shield your eyes from these elements and reduce the risk of irritation and dryness.

When outdoors, wear sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Consider wraparound sunglasses for additional protection from wind and dust. If you frequently engage in activities like biking, swimming, or yard work, goggles are a great option as well. You’ll be keeping your eyes comfortable while protecting them from potential harm.

#5 – Maintain a Balanced Diet

Did you know what you eat can impact your eye health? Nutrition plays an important role in maintaining eye health and managing dry eyes. 

A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids promotes healthy tear production. Omega-3 fatty acids are “healthy fats” found in fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines, as well as flaxseeds, walnuts, and certain leafy green vegetables.

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. A general rule of thumb is to ingest at least 3 litres or 8 cups of water a day. A well-hydrated body helps ensure your tear film does its job effectively., which is to keep your eyes moist at all times.

You may also talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalised guidance on planning your diet for post-LASIK recovery.

How Long Does It Take for Eye Dryness to Go Away After LASIK?

The duration of dry eyes after LASIK varies among individuals.

In most cases, symptoms improve within the first 3 months after surgery. Some people may experience dryness for up to 6 months, but this usually resolves with consistent use of prescribed eye drops and proper eye care practices.

It’s important to attend all follow-up appointments with your eye surgeon. Never be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure about anything involving your eyes. Trust your doctor to monitor your recovery and provide additional treatments if necessary.

Conclusion

LASIK is a life-changing experience for many people, offering the freedom from glasses or contact lenses. Dry eyes are a common side effect, but they are temporary and manageable.

By following these few simple tips, you can significantly improve your comfort and expedite the recovery process:

  • Use prescribed eye drops consistently.
  • Combat dry environments with humidifiers.
  • Stay away from the sun as much as you can.
  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule and reduce screen time.
  • Wear protective eyewear like sunglasses or goggles.
  • Eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and drink lots of water.

Remember, communication is key! If your dry eye symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to reach out to your ophthalmologist.

Stay tuned for more eye care tips for various eye conditions like myopia treatment, eye exams, and more from VISTA Eye Specialist—your friendly neighbourhood eye expert. For more information, feel free to talk to us.

Here’s to a smooth recovery journey towards enjoying your clearer vision!

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