LASIK’s Lingering Immune Effects

Study finds that LASIK leaves lasting corneal immune footprint

June 25, 2026
3 min

The Ophthalmologist

Overview

A recent study reveals that LASIK surgery may lead to persistent changes in corneal nerve structure and immune cell behavior, detectable up to two years post-surgery.

Background

Understanding the long-term effects of LASIK on the ocular surface is critical for managing potential complications such as chronic dry eye and neuropathic pain. This study utilized advanced imaging techniques to provide insights into corneal nerve and immune cell dynamics post-surgery.

Data Highlights

Parameter	Post-LASIK	Healthy Controls
Central corneal nerve density	Reduced	Normal
Mechanical corneal sensitivity	Impaired	Normal
IL-16 concentration	Elevated	Normal
Dendritic cell density (inferior cornea)	Lower	Normal
T cell motility (corneal whorl)	Increased	Normal

Key Findings

Post-LASIK corneas showed reduced central corneal nerve density and branching.
Mechanical sensitivity was impaired in LASIK-treated eyes.
Dynamic imaging revealed increased motility of epithelial T cells in post-LASIK patients.
Dendritic cells in post-LASIK eyes were larger and morphologically distinct.
Elevated levels of interleukin-16 were found in tears of post-LASIK participants.
Half of the LASIK cohort met criteria for dry eye disease, with no major differences in immune cell dynamics between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider the observed changes in corneal nerve and immune cell features when evaluating post-operative care.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for further investigation into the long-term implications of altered corneal nerve and immune cell features following LASIK surgery.