Cataract surgery does not typically cause dry eyes. Only two very small incisions are made in the cornea during the procedure. These incisions heal quickly after surgery and do not significantly affect how many tears your eyes produce. Though cataract surgery does not cause dry eyes, a pre-existing dry eye condition can sometimes affect the quality of a cataract surgery outcome. For this reason, during your eye exam and consultation prior to cataract surgery, your eye doctor or surgeon will evaluate the tear film on your eyes. If it appears you have dry eyes, treatment is given to restore your tear layers prior to surgery.