Purpose. To evaluate tear secretion and corneal sensitivity after laser in
situ keratomileusis (LASIK) for the correction of myopia. Methods. In a pro
spective study, 48 consecutive eyes (24 patients) underwent LASIK to correc
t myopia ranging from -3.5 to -12.25 diopters. Tear secretion tested by the
tear function index and corneal sensitivity tested using the Cochet-Bonnet
esthesiometer were evaluated preoperatively and 1 week and 1, 3, 6, and 9
months postoperatively. Results. Tear secretion and corneal sensitivity aft
er LASIK were reduced during the first 3 months after surgery (p < 0.001).
Tear secretion returned to its preoperative values only after 9 months. Tea
r secretion and corneal sensitivity were more depressed in long-term contac
t lens wearers preoperatively and 6 months after surgery (p < 0.05). Conclu
sion. In the correction of myopia, tear secretion was depressed after LASIK
during the first 6 months after surgery.