Purpose: To investigate a case of severe wrinkled corneal flap after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) successfully treated by hydrating the flap with deionized water and applying a bandage contact lens.
Methods: A 39-year-old woman presented with corneal flap wrinkles 24 hours after undergoing LASIK in her left eye. Under the operating microscope the flap was refloated and hydrated with sterile deionized water for 2 minutes without stretching or ironing the flap. A bandage contact lens was then applied for 24 hours. Sterile deionized water was used topically every 2 hours for 1 day.
Results: Twenty-four hours after treatment with sterile deionized water and a bandage contact lens, the cornea was smooth and wrinkle free.
Conclusions: Hydration with deionized water may offer advantages over isotonic solutions in treating a wrinkled corneal flap after LASIK.