Persistent Dryness After Refractive or Cataract Surgery

Close-up of a human eye with a laser beam reflecting off the cornea, set against a dark background, with a white contact lens near the eye.

Clear vision is life-changing. However, refractive and cataract surgery temporarily alter the ocular surface and corneal nerves, which can lead to dryness, irritation or fluctuating vision during recovery.

For most patients, these changes are temporary and manageable — but in some cases, symptoms persist without targeted treatment.

We work alongside surgeons to support ocular surface optimisation before and after surgery.

Why It Happens

Up to 50% of patients have signs of dry eye before refractive surgery — often undiagnosed

Corneal nerves are temporarily affected during both laser and cataract procedures.

Tear film instability is common, especially in the early post-operative healing phase.

Optimising the ocular surface improves visual quality and patient satisfaction after surgery.

How We Help

A young woman with long hair wearing dark blue medical scrubs standing in a room holding a tablet. She has a gentle smile and is looking at the camera. There is a beige chair, a white radiator, and a framed picture of sheep on the wall behind her, with a wooden panel also visible on the wall.

Assessment may include detailed tear film evaluation and meibomian gland imaging to identify the underlying driver of symptoms. Management may include:

  • Advanced tear film diagnostics

  • Meibomian gland therapy

  • IPL for inflammatory dry eye

  • Targeted lubrication strategies

  • Punctal plug insertion where appropriate

  • Structured lid hygiene protocols

  • Amniotic membrane therapy in selected cases