Refractive Surgery And Dry Eye
Although about one million people in the United States have successfully gone through refractive surgery, it is important to understand that some risks exist.
In addition, some people are not good candidates for this type of eye surgery. For instance, individuals with dry eye should be carefully examined since refractive surgery can further aggravate this particular condition.
Dry eye is actually a very common problem with more than 10 million people in the United States suffering from some degree of this condition. Although there are different causes, the typical cause has to do with the quality of the tear film, which works to lubricate the eyes. In the eye, the tear film is comprised of the mucus layer, clear outer window, and foundation so the film can adhere to the eye. The middle layer is what provides the eye with moisture while supplying oxygen and other important nutrients. This layer is 98% water with a little bit of protein, salt, and other compounds. The lipid or outer layer is an oily film, sealing the tear film so moisture does not evaporate.
When a person has dry eye syndrome, they would experience itching, burning, redness, irritation, excessive tearing, blurred vision cleared by blinking, and additional discomfort from eyestrain. Dry eye occurs most often from age since the body will begin to produce less oil. Interestingly, dry eye syndrome affects women more than it does men. However, other related causes are dry climate, wind, cigarette smoke, high altitude, and even air conditioning. Then, people who wear contact lenses will sometimes experience dry eyes since the contacts actually absorb the moisture instead of the eye.
Now, if you do not have dry eye syndrome you could be a great candidate. Working with a reputable doctor will determine the degree of success for refractive surgery. Keep in mind that dry eyes can also be a consequence of the surgery, which is different from dry eye syndrome. In this case, the individual might experience drier than normal eyes after surgery, which is relatively common. In this case, the problem is temporary.
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If you have refractive surgery and experience dry eyes afterwards, chances are your doctor will use some type of lubrication drops to help you through this period. If the problem is severe, small plugs could be inserted into the tear duct, which keeps them open to help maintain proper moisture in the eyes. These special plugs are very small, painless when inserted, and cannot be seen by the wearer or other people.
The most important thing about refractive surgery is to work with a reputable doctor, someone that has years of experience performing this type of surgery. Unfortunately, some clinics are not professional, resulting in permanent eye damage. However, if you do your homework first, check with the Better Business Bureau and medical board, and talk to other people who have had the procedure done by the same doctor, you can feel confident.
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