Can LASIK cause cataracts?

A common question people ask when considering laser eye surgery is: Can LASIK cause cataracts?

The short answer is no. LASIK does not cause cataracts.

LASIK and cataracts affect different parts of the eye. LASIK changes the shape of the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye. Cataracts develop inside the eye when the natural lens becomes cloudy over time. Because these structures are separate, LASIK does not increase your risk of developing cataracts.

Understanding how LASIK and cataracts work can help you make an informed decision about your vision correction options.

What is LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of laser vision correction used to treat common refractive errors, including:

Short-sightedness (myopia)
Long-sightedness (hyperopia)
Astigmatism
During the procedure, an eye surgeon uses a laser to reshape the cornea. This helps light focus more accurately on the retina, improving vision.

LASIK is designed to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses for suitable candidates.

What are cataracts?

A cataract occurs when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy.

The natural lens sits behind the coloured part of the eye (the iris) and helps focus light onto the retina. As we age, proteins within the lens can begin to break down and clump together, causing the lens to become cloudy.

Common symptoms of cataracts include:

• Blurred vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Increased sensitivity to glare
• Colours appearing faded
• Frequent changes in glasses prescriptions

Cataracts are a normal part of ageing and are one of the most common causes of vision loss worldwide.

Why do some people think LASIK causes cataracts?

One reason for this misconception is timing.

Many people have LASIK in their 20s, 30s, or 40s. Cataracts often develop later in life, usually after the age of 60.

If someone develops cataracts years after LASIK, it may seem like the two are connected. However, the cataracts are typically related to the natural ageing process rather than the previous laser eye surgery.

Research has not shown that LASIK causes cataracts to develop.

Can you still get cataracts after LASIK?

Yes.

Having LASIK does not prevent cataracts from developing later in life.

The procedure permanently reshapes the cornea, but it does not stop the natural lens inside the eye from ageing.

This means a person who has LASIK may still develop cataracts in the future, just like someone who has never had laser vision correction.

Does previous LASIK affect cataract surgery?

If you have LASIK and later require cataract surgery, it is important to tell your surgeon about your previous procedure.

Modern cataract surgery remains highly effective for people who have previously undergone LASIK. However, extra measurements and calculations may be required when selecting the most appropriate intraocular lens (IOL).

Advances in diagnostic technology have made it much easier to plan cataract surgery accurately in patients who have had prior laser vision correction.

Are there any situations where cataracts can develop earlier?

While LASIK does not cause cataracts, certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing cataracts earlier in life.

These can include:

• Ageing
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Long-term steroid use
• Eye injuries
• Previous eye inflammation
• Excessive ultraviolet (UV) exposure

Your eye doctor can discuss any individual risk factors during an eye examination.

What happens if you develop cataracts after LASIK?

If cataracts develop years after LASIK, cataract surgery can often restore clear vision.

During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens.

Many patients achieve excellent vision after cataract surgery, although results vary depending on individual circumstances and overall eye health.

Your surgeon will discuss the most suitable lens options and expected outcomes based on your eyes and visual goals.

How can you protect your eye health?

While cataracts are a natural part of ageing, there are steps you can take to support long-term eye health:

Attend regular eye examinations

Routine eye exams can detect cataracts and other eye conditions early.

Protect your eyes from UV light

Wearing quality sunglasses may help reduce long-term UV exposure.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can support overall eye health.

Manage medical conditions

Conditions such as diabetes should be carefully monitored and managed.

Is LASIK still a safe option?

LASIK has been performed for decades and remains one of the most commonly performed vision correction procedures worldwide.

Like all surgical procedures, it carries risks and may not be suitable for everyone. This is why a detailed assessment is essential before any treatment is considered.

A comprehensive consultation allows your surgeon to evaluate your eye health, prescription stability, corneal thickness, and overall suitability.

The bottom line

LASIK does not cause cataracts.

Cataracts develop inside the natural lens of the eye as part of the ageing process, while LASIK reshapes the cornea at the front of the eye. Although people who have LASIK may still develop cataracts later in life, the two conditions are not caused by one another.

If you are considering laser vision correction and want to understand whether you may be suitable, the first step is to learn more about your eyes and your options.

To learn more about LASIK, or if another type of refractive surgery may be more appropriate to free you from the hassle of glasses and contact lenses, please book online for a free laser vision assessment on our website today.