Is LASIK permanent?

If you’re thinking about getting LASIK, one of the first questions that may pop into your head is:
“Will the results last forever?”

It’s an important question, and the answer is both simple and nuanced. In most cases, LASIK results are permanent. But there are a few reasons your vision might change over time—and understanding them can help you set realistic expectations.

How LASIK works

LASIK uses a precision laser to reshape the cornea (the clear front part of your eye). This changes how light is focused on the retina, correcting vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

Because LASIK physically changes the shape of your cornea, the correction it provides is permanent. The treated areas do not “grow back” or revert to their previous shape.

Why vision sometimes changes after LASIK

Even though the corneal reshaping lasts a lifetime, your eyes and your overall body still age. Changes to your vision after LASIK are usually caused by natural aging, not the procedure itself.

Here are the main reasons vision might change:

1. Presbyopia
   Starting in your 40s, the lens inside your eye naturally loses flexibility. This makes it harder to focus on close objects, a condition called presbyopia. It happens to everyone, whether you’ve had LASIK or not.
2. Cataracts
   Over time, the eye’s natural lens can become cloudy, causing blurry vision. This is called a cataract, and it’s unrelated to LASIK.
3. Prescription Changes
   In rare cases, your eyes may continue to change slightly over the years. If this happens, you may notice a return of mild blurriness.

Are LASIK enhancements an option?

Yes. If your prescription changes significantly years after LASIK, you may be able to have a follow-up procedure called an enhancement. This is quicker and easier than your original LASIK surgery and can fine-tune your vision.

At Elite LASIK & Cataract, we monitor your eyes during follow-up visits to make sure your results stay sharp.

How long does LASIK typically last?

Studies show that more than 95% of patients still have 20/25 vision or better 10 years after LASIK. Many enjoy clear vision for decades without needing glasses or contacts.

How to protect your LASIK results

• Have regular eye exams
• Protect your eyes from UV light with sunglasses
• Manage health conditions like diabetes that can affect vision
• Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions closely.

LASIK is a long-term solution for many people, but it’s not a guarantee against normal age-related changes. The best part? Even if you need glasses later in life, they’ll likely be a much lower prescription than before.

Take the first step toward clearer vision.
Start with our quick LASIK self-test to find out if you’re a candidate.