Can you have laser eye surgery with dry eyes?

A common question for those considering vision correction surgery is whether having dry eyes disqualifies them from the procedure. Understanding the relationship between dry eyes and laser eye surgery is crucial in making an informed decision.

Understanding Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when your eyes do not produce enough tears or the quality of tears is poor. This condition can cause discomfort, redness, and blurred vision. It’s a common concern and can be exacerbated by factors like age, environmental conditions, and screen use.

Laser Eye Surgery with Dry Eye

Traditionally, having dry eyes was seen as a contraindication for laser eye surgery, as the procedure can temporarily exacerbate symptoms. However, with advancements in technology and a better understanding of dry eye management, it’s no longer an absolute barrier.

Pre-Surgery Evaluation

A thorough evaluation is essential before undergoing surgery. This includes assessing the severity of your condition. If your eyes are mild to moderate, you might still be a candidate for the surgery. In such cases, your surgeon may recommend pre-treatment to manage your eyes, ensuring you’re in the best possible condition for the procedure.

Post-Surgery Considerations

Post-surgery, it’s common to experience some level of dryness in the eyes. This is usually temporary and can be managed with artificial tears and other treatments. Your surgeon will provide a post-operative care plan tailored to your needs.

Individual Suitability

Every individual is different, and suitability depends on various factors, including the health of your eyes and the severity of your dry eye condition. It’s important to have an open and honest discussion with a professional about your concerns and medical history.

To know if you’re suitable for vision correction, you’ll need to book a free assessment. In the meantime, take the first step towards clear vision and discover your suitability with our 1-minute self-test.

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Find out if you are suitable for vision correction

Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.

Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:

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Discover if you can be free from glasses and contact lenses

The best way to find out if laser eye treatment is right for you is to have a free assessment. We’ll examine your eyes and you’ll get a clear answer from our experts on your suitability and laser vision correction options.