Does LASIK Permanently Fix Eyes?
For millions of people around the world, LASIK Eye Surgery has become a life-changing procedure, offering the freedom to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses. But when people consider LASIK, they often wonder: does LASIK permanently fix vision, or will their eyesight change over time?
Let’s dive into what you can expect from LASIK, how it works, and whether it’s a lasting solution for clear vision.
How Does LASIK Work?
LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a surgical procedure that corrects vision by reshaping the cornea — the clear, front part of the eye. By using a precise laser to reshape the cornea, the eye surgeon can correct common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This reshaping allows light to be focused correctly on the retina, creating clear vision.
Is LASIK a Permanent Solution?
The answer is both yes and no. The changes LASIK makes to the cornea are indeed permanent. Once your cornea is reshaped, it stays in that shape, providing a lasting improvement in vision. Most patients enjoy clear vision for many years and no longer need glasses or contact lenses for everyday activities.
However, while the correction itself is permanent, other factors can affect your vision over time.
Why Vision Can Change After LASIK
1. Natural Aging Process: As we age, our eyes naturally change. Around age 40, most people experience presbyopia, a condition that makes close-up vision blurry. This is unrelated to LASIK and is a normal part of the aging process.2. Eye Health Changes: Certain health conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration, can also impact vision. These conditions are not affected by LASIK and may require additional treatment in the future.
3. Lifestyle and Eye Strain: Factors like prolonged screen time, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits can sometimes strain the eyes and cause temporary vision changes. However, these typically don’t reverse the LASIK correction.
Who Experiences the Longest-Lasting Results?
LASIK is generally recommended for patients with stable vision — those whose prescriptions haven’t changed for at least a year. Younger patients may see slight changes over time if their vision isn’t entirely stable, while older patients might need reading glasses as presbyopia sets in.
Can You Get LASIK More Than Once?
Yes, in some cases, LASIK touch-ups (enhancements) are an option if minor adjustments are needed. This is typically rare and only done if a small refractive error develops after the initial procedure. Your ophthalmologist will assess whether an enhancement is appropriate based on your eye health, corneal thickness, and other factors.
What Can You Expect from LASIK in the Long Term?
Most people who undergo LASIK enjoy years of clear vision. The procedure allows people to enjoy activities without the constant reliance on corrective lenses, and for many, that freedom is worth it.
Is LASIK Right for You?
If you’re considering LASIK and are curious about the long-term results, consulting with an experienced LASIK surgeon can help you understand how your unique eyes may respond to the procedure. At Mueller Vision, we offer a highly detailed Advanced Ocular Analysis with our ophthalmologists to help you make an informed decision about your vision. Call our team today to take the first step to crisp, clear vision!
