LASIK MD Laser Eye Surgery – Punctal Plugs
Refractive Surgery and Dry Eyes
Dryness of the eyes is a condition that some patients may experience after having undergone laser vision correction. While this condition is temporary – lasting from a few weeks to a few months depending on the patient – there is a new treatment that can help alleviate dry eye symptoms. A microscopic plug, called a punctal plug, can be inserted into a patient's tear ducts to increase the level of the tear film. As a result, punctal plugs maintain the moisture in the patient's eyes, relieving the unpleasant symptoms of dry eyes.
Do you have dry eyes?
The following symptoms are commonly associated with dry eyes:
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Burning, itchy eyes
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Redness
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Vision that is blurry until you blink
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Excessive tearing
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Sensation of having sand in your eye
If you have one or more of the following symptoms, punctal plugs can alleviate the irritation. They can help you achieve comfort and a better quality of vision and life. With the use of punctal plugs, the need for purchasing artificial tear drops, both prior to and following surgery, is drastically reduced.
Types of Punctal Plugs
Temporary Punctal Plugs
For patients who only experience symptoms following laser vision correction, a temporary plug is usually sufficient to remedy the condition. A temporary punctal plug dissolves after 3 months, providing dry eye relief for patients temporarily experiencing symptoms.
Silicone Punctal Plugs
For those that have experienced dry eye symptoms prior to refractive surgery, the silicone plug may be the best solution.
With a silicone punctal plug, the patient keeps the plugs in their eyes indefinitely. It is important to note, however, that they can be removed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist if needed. Silicone punctal plugs ease the symptoms of those that suffer chronically from this problem.
A LASIK MD eye care specialist will examine the condition of your eyes and advise you on which solution best meets your needs.
LASIK MD does not assume responsibility for the loss of punctal plugs.
