One of the conditions he is checking for is dry eye syndrome, which is when your eyes no longer produce enough tears to keep your eyes healthy. Symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:
- Itchy eyes, which feel like there is sand in them.
- Prolonged periods of excessive tears followed by prolonged dry periods.
- Burning or stinging eyes.
- Blurred vision.
- Eyes that discharge a stringy substance.
- Eyelids that feel heavy.
Following LASIK, many people get dry eyes that can last up to 6 months. If you are prone to dry eyes, you have a higher risk of complications following the surgery. This is because the corneal nerves, which produce tears, can be damaged during the procedure.
Having dry eye syndrome does not eliminate you as a candidate for LASIK. Dr. Walton may still be able to proceed with the aid of Restasis, an eye drop the increases tear production.
If you’re not a candidate for LASIK, Dr. Walton may recommend PRK. PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, is a refractive surgery procedure that is similar to LASIK, but differs in that the outer layer is removed from the eye rather than creating a flap out of it. The best way to find out if you are a candidate for LASIK is to be evaluated by Dr. Walton at our Mobile ophthalmology office.
If you are interested in LASIK, please contact Dr. Chris Walton using the form on this page or call 251-341-3385 today to schedule a free consultation. We serve patients in Mobile, Alabama, Pensacola, Florida, and throughout the Gulf Coast region.
