Evaluation of Dry Eye in Patients Undergoing Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery

Background: Dry eye disease (DED) may worsen after phacoemulsification cataract surgery. This study examines DED in patients and highlights the need for early identification and treatment for surgical success. Methods: Prospective observation of 100 phacoemulsified eyes done at BURDWAN Medical College was carried out for three months. Schirmer’s test, corneal fluorescein staining, OSDI scores, and tear film break-up time measurements were taken before and after surgery at 7, 30, and 90 days. The data were analyzed via ANOVA and paired t tests, with a significance threshold of p<0.05. Results: Corneal staining revealed greater ocular surface injury. Early postoperative symptoms peaked and improved, with most metrics attaining baseline by three months—pre-existing borderline tear film abnormalities linked with DED severity and surgical results. Tear film instability and dry eye symptoms worsened in the first postoperative week, as TBUT and Schirmer’s test values decreased and OSDI scores climbed. This period also increased corneal staining. Conclusion: Transient tear film dysfunction (TTD) may occur following phacoemulsification. However, it normally resolves within three months and peaks shortly after. These findings emphasize the necessity of preoperative DED evaluation and therapy to improve surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Future research should explore more accurate diagnostic methods and personalized treatment plans to reduce postoperative DED.