Lasik and Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC)

GPC can cause large red bumps under the eye lid, but can be fully resolved with proper treatment.

Active Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC), which presents as large red bumps under the eye lid and is often related to contact lens wear, is a contraindication for conventional or wavefront custom Lasik, Bladeless Lasik, PRK or similar refractive surgery. GPC must be fully resolved before elective surgery.

A history of GPC is not an automatic contraindication for laser eye surgery, however the medications used to treat GPC can temporarily alter the cornea and cause an unexpected outcome. Antihistamines can dehydrate the cornea and balanced hydration is an important aspect of successful Lasik.

GPC symptoms commonly include tearing, extra mucus, and itching. The condition frequently affects both eyes. Fortunately GPC can be fully resolved with appropriate treatment.

Looking For Best Lasik Surgeon?

If you are ready to choose a doctor to be evaluated for conventional or custom wavefront Lasik, Bladeless Lasik, PRK, or any refractive surgery procedure, we recommend you consider a doctor who has been evaluated and certified by the USAEyes nonprofit organization. Locate a USAEyes Evaluated & Certified Lasik Doctor.

Personalized Answers

If this article did not fully answer your questions, use our free Ask Lasik Expert patient forum.

Recent Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis Journal Articles...

Related Articles

[Ocular prosthetics : Fitting, daily use and complications].

Ophthalmologe. 2015 Jul 10;

Authors: Koch KR, Trester W, Müller-Uri N, Trester M, Cursiefen C, Heindl LM

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Ocular prosthetics make a decisive contribution to the functional, esthetic and psychosomatic rehabilitation of patients after ocular extirpation.
OBJECTIVES: This article provides an overview of the fitting, daily care and complications of ocular prosthetics.
METHODS: The study comprised a PubMed literature review and own clinical results.
RESULTS: Ocular prosthetics made from cryolite glass or perspex can be manufactured and fitted 5-8 weeks after removal of the eye. During this period a conformer is placed within the conjunctival sac in order to prevent scar formation and shrinking of the socket. Artificial eyes can be worn continuously, only interrupted by a short but regular cleaning procedure. Artificial tears and lid hygiene improve the comfort of wearing. Glass prostheses have to be renewed every 1-2 years, while perspex prostheses need to be polished once a year. Complications, such as giant papillary conjunctivitis or blepharoconjunctivitis sicca are facilitated by poor fit, increased age and inappropriate care of the prosthetic device. In the case of socket shrinkage or anophthalmic socket syndrome, surgical interventions are needed to re-enable the use of an artificial eye.
CONCLUSION: Adequate fitting, daily care of ocular prosthetics and therapeutic management of associated complications are mandatory for a durable functional, esthetic and psychosomatic rehabilitation after ocular extirpation.

PMID: 26160105 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]