Archive · 12 Oct 2026
Eye Specialists Explain LASIK Dry-Eye Risks and Recovery
Some people have dry or irritated eyes after LASIK.
Their eyes may also feel as if something is in them, become sensitive to light, or have vision that changes for a while.
These problems often happen most during the first few weeks.
Most people get better quickly, but symptoms can last for weeks or months for some.
A small number may still have symptoms after three to six months.
People who already have dry eyes may be more likely to have trouble.
Doctors say managing dry eyes before surgery matters.
Lubricating drops and follow-up visits can help symptoms gradually improve.
Dry eye is described as the most common concern after LASIK.
Symptoms can include dryness, irritation, burning, light sensitivity and fluctuating vision.
Symptoms are often most noticeable in the first few weeks after surgery.
Most patients recover quickly, but symptoms may last weeks or months for some.
Pre-existing dry eye can increase risk; lubricating drops and follow-up care may help.
- Who
- Six eye specialists, including Dr. Mehta, Dr. Reddy and Dr. Kelkar, discuss LASIK concerns.
- What
- They describe post-operative dry-eye symptoms, risk factors and recovery.
- When
- Symptoms are often experienced in the first few weeks; they may persist for weeks or months, and in a small percentage of people beyond three to six months.
- Why
- The discussion aims to explain what patients may experience after LASIK and the importance of managing dry eye before surgery.
- Most frequently encountered post-operative concern
- Dry eye
- Reported symptoms
- Dryness, irritation, burning, foreign-body sensation, light sensitivity and fluctuating vision
- Common symptom period
- Especially within the first few weeks
- Possible duration
- Weeks or months for some people
- Longer-lasting symptoms
- A small percentage may have symptoms beyond three to six months
- Risk factor
- Pre-existing dry eyes
- Suggested symptom care
- Lubricating drops and proper follow-up care