Can you have laser eye surgery with dry eyes?

For those thinking about getting their vision fixed, a common question is whether having dry eyes means you can’t have the surgery. Knowing how dry eyes and laser eye surgery are connected is really important when deciding whether to go through with it.

Understanding dry eyes

Understanding dry eyes is key. It’s a common eye issue where either not enough tears are made, or the quality of tears is not good enough. This can lead to discomfort, redness, and blurry vision. As people get older, their tear glands may not work as well, so regular eye check-ups are important, especially if you’re in your middle to senior years. Dry or windy climates, spending a lot of time in air-conditioned places, and using digital screens can worsen dry eyes. This is known as digital eye strain. Recognising symptoms early, like a gritty feeling, sensitivity to light, and too many tears, is important. Eye care professionals can help by suggesting lifestyle changes, using artificial tears, or, in serious cases, prescription eye drops.

Laser eye surgery with dry eye

When it comes to laser eye surgery and dry eyes, things have changed. In the past, having dry eyes made it difficult to have laser eye surgery because it could make symptoms worse for a while. But new technologies and a better understanding of how to manage dry eyes have changed this view. Now, with improved surgical techniques and an understanding of individual needs, even those with dry eyes can consider laser eye surgery with more confidence. As advancements continue, the balance between achieving good vision and managing dry eye symptoms is getting better.

Pre-surgery evaluation

Before having the surgery, it’s important to have a thorough check-up to make sure everything will go well. If your eye condition is mild to moderate, you might still be a good candidate for the surgery. If it’s in this range, your skilled surgeon might suggest some measures before the surgery to manage your eye condition and get your eyes in the best state for the surgery. This proactive approach improves the surgery’s success and shows a commitment to your eye health throughout the whole process.

Post-surgery considerations

After the surgery, it’s common to feel some dryness in your eyes, but it’s usually temporary and can be dealt with using artificial tears and other treatments. Every patient is different, so your surgeon will give you a detailed plan for after the surgery, tailored to your needs. This plan will guide you through the recovery process to make sure you’re comfortable, and your eyes get back to normal.

Individual suitability

Everyone is different, so when deciding if laser eye surgery is right for you, it’s important to consider many factors. Your eye health and the severity of your dry eye condition are crucial in determining the best approach. Having an open and honest conversation with a healthcare professional is really important. This lets you talk about your concerns and medical history, making sure the chosen plan aligns with your specific needs. This personalised approach makes dealing with dry eyes more effective and tailored to you.

If you want to know if you’re suitable for vision correction, you can book a free assessment. In the meantime, you can take the first step towards clear vision by doing our 1-minute self-test.