The LASIK Procedure: Artificial Tears

Virtually everyone who has a refractive procedure experiences some temporary decrease in tear production after the procedure.  The tear layer that coats the eye is one of the most important components of the visual system.  Without a smooth tear film, vision may be blurry, hazy or fluctuate.  After a refractive procedure, the unstable tear film is usually temporary, assuming you didn’t have a dry eye problem to start with. 

Accelerate Visual Recovery
Good artificial tear therapy following your procedure accelerates rapid visual recovery, increases comfort, and can help guard against regression during the rehabilitation process.

We strongly recommend artificial tear therapy for our Refractive patients to accelerate good visual stabilization and to facilitate a better result.  You can not overuse or overdose on your artificial tears.  Every patient’s healing is different and some patient might need to continue to use the artificial tears until the 3 month check.

Tears to choose after day 7:  Refresh, Thera tears, Systane, Smooth (do not buy store brand)

Options for bedtime gel or drops:  Genteal Gel, Celluvisc or Lacrilube Ointment, Liquigel.

Remember:
    • A drop lasts 15 minutes
    • Ointment has an 8 hour duration of action
    • You can rinse the gel out in the shower or with artificial tears
    • If you are experiencing excessive dryness in the morning, avoid sleeping under a
      ceiling fan.

Helpful Information about LASIK Procedures
Your Drops Procedure Day	After your Procedure Why Artificial Tears after Procedure?