LASIK is known for producing life-changing vision results for millions of patients. For all of those patients, LASIK is a permanent procedure. However, as we age, vision changes can occur. Some patients have experienced the need for a ‘touch up’ following their LASIK procedure. That decision is made between a patient and their doctor who deems it safe.
If you’re thinking about getting LASIK, you probably have plenty of questions, including if you’ll need additional treatment. The best way to find out is to consult an eye doctor. They can assess your vision and talk to you about your options.
What Does LASIK Correct?
LASIK surgery can correct several refractive errors in your vision.
- Myopia—commonly known as nearsightedness, which makes seeing distant objects difficult.
- Hyperopia—also known as farsightedness, which makes seeing close objects difficult.
- Astigmatism—an irregularly shaped cornea or lens which causes image distortions.
Why Your Vision Might Change After LASIK
Age-related vision issues are the most common reasons that your vision could change following LASIK.
Presbyopia, an age-related eye condition, hardens your eye’s lens, causing it to be less flexible. This makes it more challenging for the eye to focus on nearby objects.
It’s important to keep in mind that LASIK is a safe and effective procedure. So if you’re worried you’ll need additional treatment—consult your eye doctor. They’ll be able to answer all your questions and help you come to a decision.
Why You Might Need Additional Treatment
A typical LASIK process looks like this: a patient around the age of 21 has the procedure done and experiences immediate vision improvement. Then, changes may occur around 50 years old that introduce new vision problems like cataracts. However, instead of a second LASIK procedure, the patient would need cataract surgery to improve vision.
Patients with high prescriptions may need a ‘touch up’ if needed following LASIK. Before even having LASIK, an eye doctor will discuss it with their patient to ensure it’s safe and practical.
A very important thing to keep in mind about LASIK is knowing the right time to get it done. Most surgeons will wait until your vision is stable for at least two years and you are a good candidate before moving forward.
Age Plays a Big Factor
Presbyopia isn’t the only eye condition that can affect your eyes and interfere with LASIK results. Here are some common eye problems that may affect your vision regardless of whether you’ve had LASIK.
Cataracts
A cataract can form in your eye’s natural lens, making it cloudy and difficult to see. It’s the leading cause of vision loss in people aged 40 and older. Cataracts typically form as you age, but can be corrected with surgery.
Glaucoma
If you are near or past the age of 60, you should have your eyes routinely evaluated for eye diseases like glaucoma. If left untreated, glaucoma can completely rob you of your vision. What’s even more worrisome is that glaucoma symptoms typically do not appear until it’s progressed to a point where it affects vision. However, an eye evaluation can help you get ahead of glaucoma and preserve your vision for longer.
Book Your Consultation at Michigan Eye Institute
Have more questions about LASIK? Ask the expert physicians at Michigan Eye institute. Our team is more than happy to help you decide if LASIK is right for you. Contact us online to get started today.
Comments are closed.
