The Hidden Link Between Dry Eye and Laser Surgery Results

Many people are surprised to learn how important it is to treat dry eye before vision correction. Even mild dryness can affect the accuracy of your eye measurements, how well you heal, and the quality of your results.

At Wellington Eye Clinic, we address dry eye before surgery because it protects your comfort and your vision outcome. It is a key part of how we prepare every patient for safe and successful treatment.

Why Dry Eye Matters Before Surgery

Dry eye occurs when tears do not keep the eyes properly hydrated. This can happen because of low tear production, poor tear quality or tears evaporating too quickly. It leaves the surface of the eye fragile and inconsistent.

Every vision correction procedure depends on precise measurements. If the surface of the eye is unstable, the data used to plan your treatment may not be accurate. That can affect both the choice of procedure and your recovery.

Recognising Dry Eye

Dry eye does not always feel the same for everyone. Typical symptoms include:

• Stinging or burning

• Redness or a gritty feeling

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Sensitivity to light

Other signs can be:

• Eyes watering more than usual

• Needing to blink often to refocus

• Tired or heavy eyes during screen time

• Mild discomfort that appears and disappears

Many people dismiss these symptoms as minor or age-related. In reality, they can point to an unstable tear film that should be treated before any procedure.

A Patient Example

Sarah, aged 47, visited us hoping for laser vision correction. She worked long hours on a screen and occasionally noticed watering and blur. Our assessment found mild but persistent dry eye. We treated it first. Six weeks later her eyes were in much better condition and she went ahead with vision correction that gave her clear, comfortable sight.

This is what a personalised approach looks like at Wellington Eye Clinic.

Why Dry Eye Affects Women More in Midlife

Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can affect tear production and tear film quality. Women aged 40 and above are therefore more likely to develop dryness and sensitivity. At Wellington Eye Clinic we pay special attention to subtle signs of dryness in this group to support accurate measurements and smooth healing.

[Source: external – Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society, DEWS II Report]

How We Prepare Your Eyes

Every consultation at Wellington Eye Clinic includes a detailed review of the tear film and the surface of the eye. If we find dryness, even at a mild level, we treat it before recommending a procedure.

Treatment may include:

• Lubricating eye drops

• Meibomian gland therapy

• Tear film optimisation plans

• Short-term anti-inflammatory treatment

• Temporary punctal plugs

This preparation ensures that when your procedure takes place, your eyes are in the best possible condition for both accuracy and healing.

Better Preparation Leads to Better Results

Addressing dryness before surgery helps to:

• Improve treatment planning accuracy

• Support a smoother recovery

• Provide more stable, long-lasting vision

• Increase comfort after surgery

• Improve overall satisfaction

This is not an add-on. It is a standard part of our approach and reflects our commitment to giving every patient the best outcome.

Personalised Care Through Lifestyle Vision Design

Treating dry eye before surgery is part of our Lifestyle Vision Design model. This means looking beyond prescriptions and test results to understand how you live and what you need from your vision. We prepare your eyes properly and recommend the treatment that fits you best for long-term clarity and comfort.

Next Steps

If you have dry or irritated eyes or are considering vision correction and want to be sure it is the right step, our team can help.

Your consultation includes a full analysis of the surface of your eyes, an explanation of your options, and a personalised plan that supports both safety and long-term results.

You will leave with clear answers and a plan designed around you.