Is Lasik Permanent?
Lasik, short for laser-assisted in situ keratomileuses, is the most effective surgical procedure to correct refractive errors leading to blurry vision. The procedure permanently reshapes the cornea (the transparent layer over the eye) to ensure light reaches the retina at the back of the eye correctly. Since it addresses the root cause of your blurry vision, i.e., the improper corneal shape, you can rest assured that the changes can last a lifetime.
We’re often asked the question, “Is Lasik permanent?” The simple answer would be yes, Lasik makes permanent changes to your corneal shape and position. However, the actual answer is a lot more complex because you can still experience vision changes. This article aims to help you understand the Lasik procedure, the limitations, and the reasons for possible vision changes after Lasik.
What is Lasik? Does it correct all eyesight problems?
When light meets the transparent outer film of the eye (cornea), it bends and focuses on the component at the back of the eye (retina). For optimal vision, the cornea must be placed such that it bends light correctly. If the light doesn’t bend correctly, it doesn’t focus correctly on the retina, leading to blurry vision (refractive error).
You should understand that Lasik only addresses blurry vision caused by refractive errors, i.e., the problems that occur due to the improper shape of the cornea. Your Lasik surgery corrects nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. It doesn’t treat vision problems that may arise for other reasons.
What are the reasons for vision changes after Lasik?
With LASIK treatment, the surgeon makes changes to your corneal shape and vision. In most cases, the changes are permanent, and you don’t experience the same refractive errors again. However, your vision can still change for several reasons.
- Presbyopia
As you grow older, your lens becomes less flexible and incapable of focusing on objects clearly. Presbyopia affects all people as they grow older, and it’s unavoidable. As such, even though the Lasik surgery reverses the refractive errors permanently, it can’t stop age-related vision changes.
2. Other Eye Problems
Lasik surgery only addresses blurry vision and eyesight problems caused by refractive errors. As such, you can still experience vision problems due to other eye problems, such as macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, etc. You should be seeing an eye doctor annually even after you have LASIK to monitor your general eye health.
How long will I enjoy improved vision with Lasik surgery?
You should be able to enjoy vision as long as you don’t experience age-related presbyopia or other eyesight problems.
In the rare instance when your vision starts changing again after 10 or 20 years due to refractive errors, you can get a Lasik retreatment to restore great vision again. Please schedule a consultation with our exceptional eye doctors at Pacific Vision Institute to learn more about your Lasik surgery treatment options.