Dry Eye after Cataract Surgery with Multifocal IOL

Question: I am experiencing dry eyes and still having to read with a magnifying glass after cataract surgery with a multifocal lens implant. I am not satisfied with my surgery. I also have glaucoma.

What are my options now?

Answer: Dry eye and the symptoms of dry eyes are not uncommon after Cataract Surgery. The tear film is both an integral part of the optical system of the eye as well as the healing and "comfort" mechanisms of the eye's surface. Thus, if you have a dry eye-either as a primary diagnosis, secondary to the Cataract Surgery, secondary to any preservatives in glaucoma eye drops or even an eyelid health problems-you will not be comfortable or see well. The complex optics of Multifocal Lens Implants (IOL) are even MORE sensitive to inadequate tear film integrity. Thus, this might be a contributing factor to multiple issues you report-or not. If you are comfortable with your Cataract Surgeon, the best course of action is for you to tell him or her exactly what you stated and to give them a chance to confirm the dry eye problem and identify its cause as well as offer treatment. If however you are not comfortable and would prefer to have a second opinion regarding your situation, you should schedule a consultation with the best Cataract Surgeon in your area and may even wish to choose one who is also a Corneal Specialist so that they can offer additional insight into the health of the eye's surface and external structures.

Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.