Decrease in tear secretion and corneal sensitivity after laser in situ keratomileusis

Purpose. To evaluate tear secretion and corneal sensitivity after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) for the correction of myopia. Methods. In a prospective study, 48 consecutive eyes (24 patients) underwent LASIK to correct myopia ranging from -3.5 to -12.25 diopters. Tear secretion tested by the tear function index and corneal sensitivity tested using the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer were evaluated preoperatively and 1 week and 1, 3, 6, and 9 months postoperatively. Results. Tear secretion and corneal sensitivity after LASIK were reduced during the first 3 months after surgery (p < 0.001). Tear secretion returned to its preoperative values only after 9 months. Tear secretion and corneal sensitivity were more depressed in long-term contact lens wearers preoperatively and 6 months after surgery (p < 0.05). Conclusion. In the correction of myopia, tear secretion was depressed after LASIK during the first 6 months after surgery.