PRK Healing and Taking Omega 3 – Why do I need this supplement? How is taking an Omega 3 supplement pre and post operatively helpful to my eyes healing process?
Dr. Holzman believes in being proactive. By having our PRK patients use Omega-3 supplements both before and after their procedure Dr. Holzman firmly believes that the patient’s healing process is faster and more comfortable. There are published studies by the American Academy of Ophthalmology that suggest that patients that take an Omega-3 supplement both pre and post operatively could speed up the healing time by a day or two. We tell patients to use 2000 mg of an omega three supplement per day.
Omega-3 fatty acids also have been found to reduce the risk of dry eyes. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been associated with a decline in inflammation. Dry Eye is a disorder of the tear film due to the lack of tear deficiency or too much tear evaporation which can cause symptoms of ocular discomfort or dry eye. Omega 3’s are well known in general for their health benefits. Omega-3s may also be helpful for age related macular degeneration which is an eye disease that can cause loss of vision in older people.
Ideally, you should get your daily Omega 3‘s through your diet. Good food sources of Omega 3’s are listed below:
- Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, and tuna
- Flaxseeds
- Nuts
Even though food should be your main source of omega-3 fatty acids, most Americans don’t get enough of this nutrient from diet alone which is why we request our patients take the 2000 mg of Omega-3 supplement. Best visual outcome and a comfortable healing process is our goal. If you are curious, search the web to find articles and recent studies on Omega-3 supplements and vision.
