Can LASIK prevent glaucoma?

Are you considering LASIK surgery, but also concerned about the risk of developing glaucoma in the future? Glaucoma is a serious condition that can lead to vision loss and blindness if left untreated. While LASIK surgery is primarily used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, some people have wondered if LASIK can also prevent glaucoma. In this blog post, we’ll explore what glaucoma is, how LASIK works, and whether LASIK can actually help prevent glaucoma.

What is glaucoma?

First, let’s define what glaucoma is. Glaucoma¹https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK543075/ is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage often occurs due to increased pressure in the eye. In some cases, glaucoma can develop slowly and without any noticeable symptoms until it has progressed to an advanced stage. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for glaucoma, but early detection and treatment can help slow down its progression and prevent further vision loss.

What is LASIK?

Now let’s talk about LASIK. LASIK stands for laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, and it is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct vision problems. During LASIK, a laser is used to create a flap in the cornea, which is then lifted and reshaped to correct refractive errors. LASIK is one of the most popular refractive surgery procedures, with up a high number of patients²https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0161642016300963 reporting improved vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

LASIK does not address underlying causes of glaucoma

But can LASIK actually prevent glaucoma? The short answer is no. While LASIK can improve visual acuity and reduce the need for corrective lenses, it does not address the underlying causes of glaucoma.

That being said, there are other steps you can take to lower your risk of developing glaucoma. Regular eye exams are critical for detecting and treating glaucoma early on. Your eye doctor can measure the pressure inside your eye, examine the optic nerve, and look for any signs of damage or abnormality. If you have a family history of glaucoma or other risk factors, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, your eye doctor may recommend more frequent or extensive exams.

Living a healthy lifestyle can also help you prevent glaucoma

Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help lower your risk of developing glaucoma. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking can all help protect your eyes from damage and disease. Protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays with sunglasses or a hat can also help prevent eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.

While LASIK cannot prevent glaucoma, it remains a safe and effective option for correcting vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Book a free assessment with us to find out more about LASIK surgery. Alternatively, if you have concerns about glaucoma, contact our sister clinic OKKO.