What is Lasik
Lasek has fewer complications of dry eye than Lasik.
Lasik (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is an eye surgery that reshapes the cornea in order to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses. Epi Lasek is meant to achieve the same outcome as Lasik. There is no stromal corneal flap with Epi Lasek which eliminates some potential complications. Both Lasik and Epi Lasek can provide excellent refractive outcomes.
Lasik and Dry Eyes
Dry eyes is the most common complication from refractive eye surgery. Dry eyes can be due to either inadequate tear production or excessive evaporation of the tears. There can be inflammation of the ocular surface.
It often occurs in the immediate post operative period and it is usually transient and often resolves during the first year after the surgery. It is important for your ophthalmologist to perform a detailed comprehensive eye examination prior to your surgery to diagnose dry eyes or risk factors for dry eyes.
Dry Eyes
Symptoms of dry eyes can include burning, stinging, a foreign body sensation, fluctuating or blurry vision and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Dry eyes can range from mild to severe. Dr, Cindy Wang and I will treat your dry eyes with a combination of over the counter and prescription medications depending on the severity of the condition.
Lasik and Dry Eye
When traditional Lasik is performed, a flap is cut in the cornea. This causes some of the corneal nerves to also be cut. This can cause the sensation of the cornea to be reduced. You may not sense the need for more lubrication and therefore less tears are made by the glands around the eyes.
Dry eyes after refractive surgery can not only affect the comfort of the eye but also the quality of the vision. If you suffer from dry eyes after your surgery, it is important that we treat it promptly.
Epi Lasek
When I perform Epi Lasek, no stromal corneal flap is cut. Therefore the corneal nerves are not disrupted. This may decrease the chances you will develop dry eyes after your surgery. You may be a better candidate for Epi Lasek if you suffer from dry eyes before your surgery.
Alaina Kronenberg, M.D.
Cataract Specialist
Comprehensive Ophthalmologist
Dearborn, Michigan 48126
