Like most surgeries, LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) typically requires some follow-up care to help with healing and discomfort that may be experienced after the procedure. Luckily, a pocket-sized bottle of lubricating eye drops can be helpful to find relief from postoperative dry eye symptoms.
Artificial tears are often considered a LASIK patient’s “best friend” during recovery, as dry eye is one of the most common side effects experienced. But which eye drops should you use after LASIK and how long can you expect to use them?
Below, we provide a complete guide to using eye drops after LASIK to help you keep your eyes hydrated after vision surgery.
Can I use artificial tears after LASIK?
Artificial tears are commonly recommended to LASIK patients to use before and after the procedure. This is because dry eyes are a common side effect of LASIK, and because many people look to LASIK to help with their dry eyes.
People who suffer from dry eye and require vision correction typically have issues wearing contact lenses because of their dry eye symptoms. Many of them don’t want to deal with the discomfort of contact lenses, and also aren’t keen on the idea of wearing eyeglasses, so they look to LASIK for a solution.
During a LASIK procedure, tiny cuts are made in the cornea, which is the front surface of the eye. Different layers of the cornea help to spread tear film and keep your eyes moist and healthy. When cuts are made in the cornea, it can disrupt its ability to recognize a need for lubrication, which results in dry eyes.
Using lubricating eye drops after LASIK surgery can help with the dry eye symptoms you may experience. It’s also common for those who have pre-LASIK dry eye to be given lubricating eye drops before the procedure date.
SEE RELATED: How long is the LASIK recovery time?
What eye drops are safe after LASIK?
Your eye doctor can help you determine the right artificial tears after LASIK for your eyes. They will be able to recommend eye drops that cater to your individual needs, which is often more effective than the trial and error of a one-size-fits-all approach.
If you need something to hold you over until you’re able to get an appointment, try preservative-free lubricating eye drops. They are typically more gentle on your eyes than drops with preservatives, and they're widely available. However, you should avoid extended use of over-the-counter eye drops unless advised by your eye doctor.
How often should I use lubricant eye drops after LASIK?
The frequency for using eye drops after LASIK varies from patient to patient and should be confirmed by your eye doctor. Typically, lubricating eye drops are needed approximately every two hours for around 10 weeks post-LASIK. After that, you can use them at your own discretion to maintain eye lubrication and comfort.
Again, it’s important to consult with your eye doctor regarding any post-operative care. They will be able to assess the condition of your eyes, as well as where you are in the healing process, and advise you on how often to use post-LASIK lubricating eye drops.
How long should you use artificial tears after LASIK?
How long to use artificial tears after LASIK depends on how long you think you need them. Every LASIK recovery is different and every patient will experience different levels of dryness for different lengths of time.
There's no specific “cut-off date” to stop using eye drops after LASIK. As long as your eyes feel dry, you should be able to use preservative-free lubricant eye drops.
It’s important to stay in contact with your eye surgeon during your recovery so you can let them know if you experience continuous, severe dryness. They may be able to prescribe different or stronger treatments to offer additional relief.
Does dry eye after LASIK go away?
It’s common for LASIK patients to have dry eyes for six to 12 months after surgery. It's reported that as many as 60% of patients begin feeling dry eye symptoms after the first month of recovery. However, the worst of the dry eye symptoms are typically experienced a few months after LASIK.
While this is what many experience, there are also people who do not have dry eye symptoms and others who deal with dry eyes for years after LASIK surgery.
There isn’t a surefire method to predict exactly how you will feel during recovery. However, consulting with your eye doctor can give you insight into the current condition of your eyes and give you a better idea of what to expect while you recover from LASIK.
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