LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a refractive error surgery used to correct refractive errors, particularly nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, by reshaping the cornea. LASIK surgery reduces or eliminates a person’s dependency on glasses or contact lenses.
Before delving into wearing contact lenses post-LASIK, it’s important to understand the changes LASIK brings to your eyes. During the procedure, a thin flap is created with a microkeratome (a type of blade) or a femtosecond laser, and the cornea is reshaped with a laser. After reshaping the cornea, the flap is repositioned. This reshaping allows many people to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses. There are different Lasik surgery types, including Blade LASIK and Bladeless LASIK.
However, two key factors can affect your ability to wear contact lenses after LASIK comfortably: corneal reshaping and dryness.
Corneal Reshaping: Contact lenses are designed to fit the natural curvature of the cornea, but LASIK alters the cornea’s curvature, effectively “flattening” it in the case of myopia correction or steepening it for hyperopia correction. This change in corneal shape can pose challenges when wearing contact lenses after LASIK. The contact lenses you used to wear may no longer fit as comfortably or provide optimal vision.
Dryness: Another important factor to consider is the increased risk of dry eye after LASIK surgery. Dryness can persist for several weeks or even months in some cases. Contact lens wearers are already more prone to dry eye due to reduced tear circulation and oxygen supply to the cornea. LASIK can exacerbate this issue, making it even more challenging to wear contact lenses comfortably. Dry eyes can cause irritation, redness, and discomfort when wearing contact lenses for extended periods post-LASIK.