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Hello. What are the best treatments you've found for dry eyes after cataract surgery?
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Not sure how long it’s been since you had cataract surgery, how severe the dryness is, and if you had a pre-existing dry eye condition prior to surgery. But in general, the surface of your eye and tear film may have been compromised by the surgical incisions, and pre and post-surgery use of the required antibiotic, steroid, and anti-inflammatory eye drops that contain the Benzalkonium chloride (BAK) preservative. BAK is known to cause dry eyes or exacerbate pre-existing dry eyes.
To help your eyes heal after surgery, autologous serum tears (eye drops made from one’s blood) might be helpful. Serum tears have similar components to your natural tears, which help protect and heal your eyes. My doctor had me use serum tears extensively leading up to and after cataract surgery. I had cataract surgery two years ago.
To provide more immediate relief, a thicker OTC preservative-free artificial tear that stays on the eyeball longer like Genteal Tears or Bion Tears may help. Also, a potential Rx option is Miebo eye drops. I’ve recently found Miebo the longest lasting and best substitute for lack of tear film, for me at least. My eyes are more comfortable, and my vision is sharper and brighter using these drops.
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