Tear Secretion and Tear Film Instability after Laser in Situ Keratomileusis Vs Laser Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy

To evaluate and compare tear secretion and tear film instability following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and laser assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK). In a randomized clinical trial, 30 eyes of 15 patients underwent LASIK and 30 eyes of 15 patients underwent LASEK to correct myopia. Tear secretion and tear film instability were tested preoperatively, 2 and 6 weeks, and 6 month postoperatively, using TBUT (tear break-up time) and Schirmer I and II tests. Six month after surgery, TBUT, Schirmer I, II tests decreased significantly in LASIK group compared with LASEK group. There was no significant difference between LASIK and LASEK groups preoperatively. The decrease in tear secretion was greater after LASIK than LASEK at 6 month's follow up. Proper treatment of dry eye is required after LASIK and LASEK, particularly after LASIK surgery.