Dry eye following LASIK surgery is an almost universal problem.
There is emerging evidence that in most cases it is actually an exacerbation of pre-existing dry eye rather than being actually caused by the surgery.
There is no doubt however that the inevitable severing of corneal nerves that occurs during the procedure is a major contributor to this problem. As such it is less common with INTRALSE than in cases where a free corneal flap is created. It is also considerably less common with PRK.

Most patient can expect dry eyes and in some cases this can last up to 6 months.
If dry eye is detected at the initial assessment, it should be treated with intensive use of topical lubricants as well as topical FML four times per day for several weeks prior to the surgery. Similarly this should also be instituted post procedure more some months. In the USA, topical cyclosporine is available but alas not us here in OZ land.

read full story