Does Laser Vision Correction cause dry eye?

Laser Vision Correction dehydrates the corneal surface and temporarily cause dry eye syndrome after surgery. This is usually mild, and generally can last 1-2 months. Sometimes the ocular dryness can last longer, particularly if the patient had a pre-existing dry eye problem. It is a matter of debate whether LASIK is worse than PRK with regard to this relatively common side effect. The biggest advance in the treatment for this problem has been the use of ReStasis™ eyedrops.