Influence of the tear film on optical quality of the eye.

The optical quality of the tear film of the eye was tested by measuring the retinal image before and after the break-up time (BUT). An objective method was used based on the evaluation of the retinal image of a point test projected onto the fovea. The loss of an entire tear film would result in a decrease in the optical quality because of corneal irregularities and the formation of an irregular tear lens after the BUT. Our results confirm the expected loss both of non-contact lens wearers and contact lens wearers. Also, the fact that the optical deterioration found after the BUT is greater for contact lens wearers confirms that soft contact lens wear produces a disruption of the tears.