Not Tearing Up

The aging process decreases tear production, which can cause itching, burning or scratching in our eyes. Decreased lubrication, called dry eye syndrome, is more common among women, especially at the onset of menopause. Also, reduced tearing makes wearing contact lena less comfortable. This could lead to considering laser refractive surgery as a means of permanent vision correction. Patients with severe dry eye should be cautioned that LASIK involves cutting the corneal flap, severing nerves involved in tear production. Dry eye affects about half of LASIK patients, making the procedure inappropriate for those already suffering from dry eye. Although refractive surgery techniques not involving corneal flaps less commonly cause dry eye, sufferers will likely find that their corneas heal more slowly.