Cataract surgery is one of the widely preferred and safe operations. We can call cataract surgery a safe surgery, but of course, as with any surgical intervention, some complications may occur after this operation. Among all these complications, we can count dry eye condition. So, does dry eye occur after cataract surgery? What is the possibility of this complication?
What Causes Dry Eye After Cataract Surgery?
Research on this subject reveals that dry eye complications may occur after cataract surgery. In a 2019 study, it was observed that 42% of participants who underwent cataract surgery could develop dry eye symptoms. Research results also show that yes, dry eye may seem like a complication, but let’s underline that it is not something to be afraid of.
Because research shows that most of the dry eye that occurs after cataracts is temporary. Let’s talk about why this condition can occur after surgery and what patients can do against it.
Most of the research shows that dry eye is caused by the tear film that covers the eye. There are 3 layers in this layer, which we call the tear film. Here, the outer lipid layer prevents tears from evaporating faster than they should and keeps the eye surface slippery and smooth. During cataract surgery, thinning of this lipid layer may destabilize the tear film and temporary dry eye may occur. This condition usually occurs for a short period of time and is resolved with the treatment that the doctor will prescribe for you.
What should patients do against this condition?
Before and after cataract surgery, you should follow all the treatments given by your doctor step by step against the risk of dry eye. Especially after the surgery, controls should not be interrupted and appropriate treatments such as drop therapy should continue to be applied.
With the treatments recommended by the doctor, dry eye symptoms will be eliminated in a short time.
