What it is
The ocular surface is the outer layer of the eye. It includes the cornea (the clear dome at the front), the conjunctiva and the tear film that keeps everything moist. When this surface is irritated, damaged or slow to heal, people may notice pain, redness, light sensitivity, blurry vision or a gritty feeling.
Corneal ulcer care, persistent epithelial defect treatment and post-refractive-surgery surface disease are all part of this field. A persistent epithelial defect is a spot where the cornea's outer layer has not closed as expected. Surface disease after LASIK or another eye surgery can include ongoing dryness and discomfort. Each situation is different, and only a licensed eye doctor can tell what is going on.
Amniotic membrane therapies use tissue from the amniotic membrane, the inner layer of the placenta's sac. They come in different forms, and the regulatory status differs by form. Some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products, which is a different pathway from drugs. Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs. Processed amniotic tissue products generally contain no living stem cells, so they are not stem-cell treatments.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Eye care for the surface has traditionally started with a careful exam. Doctors often look at the cornea with a microscope-style lamp and may use special dyes to see where the surface is damaged. Approaches have varied widely depending on the cause and the person.
Over time, clinicians have used many tools for surface problems. These include lubricating drops, ointments, protective lenses, tear-conserving options, and treatments aimed at underlying causes. Autologous serum tears are another option some doctors discuss. They are pharmacy-compounded from the patient's own blood and are not an FDA-approved drug.
Amniotic membrane tissue has also been part of the conversation in eye care for some time. Which option is used, if any, is a decision for a licensed clinician after an evaluation. Many people receive more than one kind of care, and approaches differ from one practice to another.
How the right eye doctor may help
The right eye doctor may help by examining your eye, listening to your history, and explaining what they see. A visit generally includes questions about symptoms, past surgeries, medications and daily habits, followed by a close look at the front of the eye. Some people are referred to a cornea specialist for more complex surface concerns.
If amniotic membrane therapies come up, a provider may explain whether they could be relevant to your situation, or whether other options make more sense. There is no guarantee that any product or treatment will work for a particular person. A good provider will be honest about what is and is not known.
Helpful questions to ask: What do you think is causing my symptoms? What is the specific product, and where does it come from? How is it processed? What is its FDA or regulatory status? What is the total cost, and what might insurance cover? What are the risks, and what follow-up is expected? Independent eye doctors can often take time to walk through these answers.
The whole-person view
Eye discomfort rarely stays only in the eye. Ongoing pain, light sensitivity or vision changes can disrupt sleep, focus and mood, and stress can in turn make people more aware of their symptoms. Body, mind and stress affect each other, so caring for the whole person can be part of feeling supported while you work with your eye doctor.
Some people find body-based support, such as the approaches listed through Somatic Experiences, helpful for managing tension and stress. Others prefer talk therapy, such as through Therapists.plus. These are not substitutes for eye care. They are optional ways to support your overall well-being, and no approach is better than another.
Keep in mind
- Serious eye conditions, such as corneal ulcers, can threaten vision, so licensed professionals should guide your care.
- Only a licensed clinician can diagnose a problem and decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation.
- Autologous serum tears and most amniotic-derived drops and serums are not FDA-approved drugs. Some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products. Always ask a provider about the regulatory status.
- For emergencies, such as sudden vision loss or severe eye pain, call 911. In an emotional crisis, call or text the 988 Lifeline.
Eye doctors
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Frequently asked questions
What is dry eye treatment for corneal and ocular surface disease?
Dry eye treatment for corneal and ocular surface disease means care aimed at the front of the eye when it is dry, irritated or slow to heal. It can range from everyday lubrication to more specialized options chosen by a licensed eye doctor. Only a provider can say what is appropriate after an evaluation.
What is a persistent epithelial defect?
A persistent epithelial defect is an area where the cornea's outer layer has not closed over as expected. It can cause pain, redness and blurry vision. An eye doctor needs to examine it, since the causes and the care can differ from person to person.
Are amniotic membrane therapies FDA-approved?
It depends on the product type. Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs, while some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products, which is a different pathway. Ask your eye doctor about the specific product's regulatory status.
Are amniotic membrane products stem-cell treatments?
No. Most processed amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells, so they should not be described as stem-cell treatments. Ask your provider about how a product is sourced and processed.
Can surface problems happen after LASIK or other eye surgery?
Yes, some people notice dryness or surface discomfort after LASIK or other eye surgery. It is a reason to talk with your eye doctor, who can examine your eye and discuss possible next steps. Don't assume symptoms are normal or ignore them if they are severe.
What should I ask an eye doctor about a corneal ulcer or non-healing wound?
Seek prompt care, since a corneal ulcer can affect vision. Ask what they think is causing it, what options exist, what a product's source, processing and FDA status are, what the total cost is, and what follow-up to expect. No outcome can be promised.
Educational resource. Placenta-Derived Eye Serum shares general information and connects people with independent eye doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.