Along with a chain of other nerves, it innervates (provides nerve function to) the lacrimal gland, which produces tears. Also ...

The ophthalmic nerve supplies sensory innervation to the structures of the eye, including the cornea, ciliary body, lacrimal ...

[1] Photorefractive surgery compromises the sensory nerve supply of the cornea, resulting in impaired sensation. Decreased afferent input to the lacrimal functional unit results in decreased tear ...