The association of pre-photorefractive keratectomy Schirmer-1 test value with postoperative corneal epithelial thickness, ocular surface discomfort, and visual acuity.

In patients with low Schirmer-1 test values before photorefractive keratectomy, the corneal epithelium thickened and ocular surface complaints increased during the postoperative period. However, changes in the corneal epithelium did not affect the postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity. To reduce postoperative problems on the ocular surface in these patients, we recommend that dry eye be treated before photorefractive keratectomy.