Dry Eye after Cataract surgery

You may experience dry eye following cataract surgery. Learn more about why this is, and what you can do about it.

Dry Eye after Cataract surgery in Hixson

Amplify Eyecare Chattanooga

Why is Dry Eye Common After Cataract Surgery?

Studies show that more than half of the people who get cataract surgery experience symptoms of dry eye, often referred to as 'Dry Eye after Cataract Surgery'. In most cases, it's temporary, and the severity can vary.

A major cause of dry eye is disruptions in tear production or the tear film. This can occur as a result of the cataract procedure, due to the proximity of the surgical procedure to the corneal nerves and the risk of irritation which can lead to inflammation. These issues can be examined by your local eye doctor or optometrist before you go for your procedure. The type of cataract surgery can affect the degree of dryness experienced.

Cataract surgery can also exacerbate dry eye symptoms in people who previously had mild symptoms or were asymptomatic. It's crucial to consult our eye care professional in Hixson about the possibility of this occurring.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

In addition to the obvious feeling of dryness, dry eye symptoms can include:

  • A stinging, burning or scratchy sensation in your eyes
  • Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Redness in the eyes
  • A sensation of having something in your eyes
  • Difficulty wearing contact lenses
  • Difficulty with nighttime driving
  • Watery eyes, which is the body's response to the irritation of dry eyes
  • Blurred vision or eye fatigue
  • Feeling like your eyelids are heavy
  • Decreased tolerance of reading, working on the computer, or any activity that requires sustained visual attention

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms following your cataract surgery, schedule an evaluation with our eye care professional by calling at (423) 710 3965.

Symptoms of Dry Eye
Preoperative Assessment

Preoperative Assessment

Before your cataract surgery, ideally at a reputable eye care clinic like Fargo, you should get a thorough evaluation of your ocular surface to prepare for any possible occurrence of dry eye after cataract surgery.

Also, if you already suffer from dry eye syndrome prior to the procedure, make sure your optometrist is aware. You may receive recommendations of things you can do both before and after the surgery to decrease the chances of developing dry eye symptoms afterward, or to mitigate the severity. These may be at-home or in-office treatment recommendations that your optometrist can provide over the phone.

Preoperative Assessment

Postoperative Assessment and Treatment

Following your cataract surgery, our eye care professional will perform tests to make sure the operation was successful, and to determine whether you are at risk of dry eye symptoms or dry eye after cataract surgery. Similar to preoperative assessments, these tests may involve the use of specialized dyes to detect any issues on the cornea or the ocular surface. Additionally, you might be asked to fill out surveys to help our eye doctor gauge any symptoms you may be experiencing. Examples of such surveys include the Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED) or the Ocular Surface Disease Index (ODSI) surveys.

Topical artificial tears are commonly suggested as a treatment option for people with dry eye after cataract surgery. There are a variety of tear formulations available, for patients with particularly sensitive eyes or other issues that may make standard artificial tears ineffective or unsafe.

Common Questions

Dry eyes can indeed pose a problem for cataract surgery. Dry eye syndrome can exacerbate the discomfort experienced during the post-operative phase. Furthermore, severe dry eye may affect the accuracy of the preoperative eye measurements, which are essential for the selection of the intraocular lens power. This can potentially lead to suboptimal visual outcomes following the surgery. Therefore, it's crucial to manage dry eye symptoms effectively before undergoing cataract surgery.
Whether you need dry eye drops after cataract surgery can depend on individual circumstances. Many patients do benefit from the use of these drops, as cataract surgery can disrupt the tear film, leading to symptoms of dry eye. However, not all patients will experience this side effect. It's always best to consult with our eye care provider at Amplify EyeCare Chattanooga after your surgery. They will be able to assess your condition and provide appropriate treatment advice.
Yes, dry eye ointment can be used after cataract surgery, particularly before bedtime to alleviate overnight dryness. However, it's important to note that any ointment or eye drop should be used under the guidance of an eye care professional, as improper use could lead to eye irritation or other issues. If you have questions about which ointment might be suitable for you, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Amplify EyeCare Chattanooga via our phone line (423) 710 3965.
Dry eye symptoms can vary significantly among individuals after cataract surgery. While some may only experience mild and temporary symptoms, others could face persistent dryness for several weeks or even months post-operation. Generally, most patients find their symptoms improve within 1-3 months. However, in some cases, ongoing management may be required if the dry eye syndrome persists. Regular follow-ups with our eye doctor are crucial to monitor and manage your symptoms effectively.
Dr. McBryar cartoon

Summary

Dry eyes are not uncommon following cataract surgery. However, in most cases it is relatively mild and easy to treat. It is advised to speak with your doctor before your procedure about any risk, especially if you previously suffered from dry eye. If you are considering cataract surgery, and have additional questions or wish to schedule a consultation, contact Amplify EyeCare Chattanooga at (423) 710 3965. Patients with dry eyes visit our clinic from all over Tennessee, and we are proud to be a leading provider of dry eye care for patients from Hixson, Chattanooga, Cleveland, and Middle Valley.

Related Articles

Testimonials


Vision therapy is well worth the response, time and effort. Our Son had a hard time focusing and writing neatly. After vision therapy Seth could complete a task in half the time if previously took. His abilities to focus improved greatly and so did his handwriting.

Also, he was better at listening. As a parent, we wanted learning to be fun for our Son, and vision therapy made this possible.


Amanda T.

Vision Therapy is well worth the expense, time and effort. Our son had a hard time focusing handwriting neatly. After vision therapy Seth could complete a task in half the time it previously took his abilities to focus and improved greatly and so did his handwriting.

Also, he was better at listening. As a parent you wanted learning to be fun for our son and vision therapy made this possible.


Alexa H.

Vision Therapy has given or son the tools he needs to be able to scan and read the written word more effectively and efficiently.

He love working with John and these working sessions give him the motivation to gladly work on his homework assignments.

It amazed us to see the difference in the tracking of his eyes and along a line of it's from the beginning to the end of the treatment.

Dr. McBryar , Kristen and John  are all marvelous and we would recommend them to anyone I only wish that we would have found them sooner!


Charlotte M.

Prior to coming to the institute for vision development my son complained of daily headaches. Therapy has eliminated his headaches completely. I love knowing my son is able to learn pain-free for the rest of his life because of the work that has been done over just a few weeks in this office. He he absolutely loved coming that didn't even feel like going to a doctor or therapy. We are grateful for the relief he was able to find by coming here.

Thank you!


Olivia C.

Seems much less frustrated with life

Reads non-stop and fast

Spelling abilities have been hugely improved

Seems much more confident

Thank You!!!


Kelly O.

When we first came to the practice, my son did not have huge issues, but lots of small ones- trouble with reading, sports (hitting the baseball consistently), coordination, etc- that were not easily detectable,but when put together presented issues. The staff here were all very professional and loving towards him. While I was concerned in the reading, my son was concerned with the athletic side. Seeing improvement night off the bat gave him confidence that i have nor seen in him and made him want to not only Come to therapy, but also made him want to work hard. He has surpassed his grade level and above in reading and hit his first home run this year! Thank you!!!


Alice M.
1 2 3 10

Blog

23fd6b60-ad7d-11eb-abba-8f029dbfa5ce-shutterstock_1255404055

Discover effective treatment options for diabetic retinopathy; consult our eye care professionals to protect your vision and overall well-being

Treating diabetic retinopathy Treating diabetic retinopathy is a critical aspect of preserving vision and maintaining the overall quality of life […]

Read More
Carrots for eyes

Are Carrots Good for Your Eyes?

As an optometrist at Amplify EyeCare Chattanooga in Hixson, one of the most common questions Dr. Heather McBryar often encounters […]

Read More
picture-focused-serious-young-caucasian-female-teacher-with-textbook-taking-off-glasses-narrowing-eyes-trying-see-something-clearly-student-girl-eyewear-posing-with-diary

Understanding Foggy vision

Is foggy vision troubling you? Let our experienced optometrist restore your sight – book an appointment today and see the […]

Read More
see all blogs

Contact Us To Amplify Your EyeCare

Amplify EyeCare Chattanooga Logo

Working Hours

Monday - Tuesday
7:30AM - 5:15PM

Wednesday - Thursday
8:00AM - 5:15PM

Friday - Sunday
Closed

Location
1043 Executive Drive Suite #101 Hixson, TN 37343
Fax
(423) 710 3966
Website Accessibility Policy
Safety protocols page
privacy policy
For Patients
appointment
Call Us
Referrals
Assessments
eyefile-adduserphone-handsetcalendar-fullarrow-uparrow-right linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram