Dry eye symptoms are a common complication after cataract surgery and may persist for up to 3 months postoperatively, according to a study that highlights the importance of monitoring and managing dry eye to optimize visual outcomes, patient satisfaction, and quality of life.
A recent systematic review analyzed data from 20 studies involving 1,694 eyes to assess the effect of cataract surgery on dry eye outcomes. Researchers evaluated changes in dry eye indicators such as Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer’s I test (ST1), and corneal fluorescein staining (CFS) over short-term (within 1 week) and medium-term (up to 3 months) postoperative periods.
There was a reduction in TBUT during both timeframes, suggesting a decline in tear film stability. Other measures, including ST1 and CFS, often showed deterioration at medium-term follow-up, though evidence regarding OSDI was inconsistent. The variability in study methodologies and follow-up durations limited the ability to track the peak and duration of dry eye symptoms.
Overall, the review highlights that dry eye symptoms may persist for up to 3 months after cataract surgery. Further research is needed to determine whether these outcomes resolve over a longer term.
Reference
Ta H, McCann P, Xiao M, et al. Dry eye post-cataract surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Ophthalmol. 2025;25(1):18. doi: 10.1186/s12886-024-03841-8. PMID: 39806338.
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