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.