When do you have to do LASIK again?

LASIK is one of the most effective and long-lasting vision correction procedures available today. For most people, LASIK provides permanent vision improvement, eliminating or reducing the need for glasses and contact lenses. However, some patients may experience vision changes over time, leading them to wonder: Will I need to get LASIK again?

At Elite LASIK & Cataract, we ensure our patients have realistic expectations about LASIK’s longevity. While the results are long-term, certain factors can lead to the need for a LASIK enhancement or a different vision correction procedure in the future.

How long do LASIK results last?

For the majority of patients, LASIK results last a lifetime. This is because the procedure reshapes the cornea, permanently correcting common refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

However, a small percentage of patients may notice slight vision changes over the years. These changes are often not due to the LASIK procedure itself but rather the natural aging process of the eyes.

Reasons you may need LASIK again

1. Regression of vision correction
   • A small percentage of patients experience regression, where their eyes gradually return to their original prescription. This happens in less than 5% of cases and is more common in individuals with high prescriptions before LASIK.
2. Presbyopia (age-related vision changes)
   • Around age 40-50, most people develop presbyopia, a natural condition where near vision becomes blurry. If you had LASIK in your 20s or 30s, you might still need reading glasses later in life. Some patients opt for monovision LASIK or blended vision procedures to address this.
3. Significant prescription changes
   • If you had unstable vision before LASIK or your eyes naturally change over time due to genetics, lifestyle, or health conditions, a second LASIK procedure (enhancement) may be required.
4. Cataracts or other eye conditions
   • As you age, cataracts may develop, causing vision to become cloudy. In this case, LASIK is not the solution—cataract surgery with premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) is needed instead.

How do you know if you need LASIK again?

If you experience blurry vision years after your LASIK surgery, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need LASIK again. It’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam to determine the cause of vision changes.

What are your options if vision changes after LASIK?

1. LASIK enhancement – A second LASIK procedure to fine-tune vision if regression occurs.
2. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) – An alternative to LASIK for those with thinner corneas.
3. Refractive lens exchange (RLE) – A procedure where the natural lens is replaced with an artificial one, often used to correct presbyopia.
4. Reading glasses or multifocal contact lenses – A non-surgical solution for age-related vision changes.

Find Out If You Need LASIK Again

Wondering if you need LASIK again? Book a free consult to determine your options.