Omega-3s Prevent Complications of Laser Eye Surgery
Laser Eye Surgery: Fish Oil Prevents Post-Operative Complications
Laser surgery to correct corneal defects can damage nerves. Treatment with Omega-3, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), can help prevent further unpleasant consequences. Researchers Jiucheng He and Haydee Bazan from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans (USA) explain the protective role of these nutrients. Their scientific findings were published in the journal Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids.
Corneal Laser Surgery: What Are the Risks?
The cornea is the transparent tissue on the surface of the eye that protects inner structures and helps transmit and refract light. A tear film covers its surface, containing fats that reduce tear evaporation and help distribute tears evenly. One of these fats is Omega-3 ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). Laser surgeries to reshape the cornea can damage nerve fibers, reducing corneal sensitivity and tear production. The most common consequence is dry eye syndrome, characterized by:
- eye discomfort and vision problems;
- inflammation;
- damage to the eye surface.
Omega-3 for a Healthy Cornea
Studies suggest dry eye syndrome can be prevented by monitoring the amount and type of fats in the diet:
- Women consuming high amounts of Omega-3 reduce their risk of dry eye by 20%;
- An unbalanced Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio favoring Omega-6 increases the risk.
The protective role of Omega-3 has been demonstrated by administering a mixture of gamma-linolenic acid and marine Omega-3 EPA and DHA to animals.
Omega-3 Reduce Corneal Damage
Researchers went beyond prevention, showing that topical application (applied directly to the eye surface) of Omega-3 ALA reduces corneal damage and inflammation symptoms. This effect is likely due to molecules the body produces from ALA: EPA, DHA, and their derivatives, known for anti-inflammatory properties. Mouse studies confirmed the anti-inflammatory effect of EPA derivatives.
Help After Laser Surgery
Based on these findings, scientists tested the effect of DHA treatment on corneal nerve regeneration in rabbits after laser surgery. Combined with growth factors, this Omega-3 promotes nerve regeneration and corneal sensitivity recovery2, preventing dry eye syndrome and other possible complications. Omega-3s could be the new frontier in preventing nerve damage linked to corneal laser surgery.
Sources:
1. He J, Bazan HE, “Omega-3 fatty acids in dry eye and corneal nerve regeneration after refractive surgery”, Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2010 Apr-Jun;82(4-6):319-25. Epub 2010 Mar 3.
2. Cortina MS, He J, Li N, Bazan NG, Bazan HE, “Recovery of corneal sensitivity, calcitonin gene-related peptide-positive nerves, and increased wound healing induced by pigment epithelial-derived factor plus docosahexaenoic acid after experimental surgery”, Arch Ophthalmol. 2012 Jan;130(1):76-83. Epub 2011 Sep 12.
