Can I Get Laser Eye Surgery Twice?
You can’t answer the question “Can I get laser eye surgery twice?” without understanding all the aspects of a second surgery. The benefits of a secondary surgery can be significant in getting your vision where you want it to be. However, it’s important to understand the risks as well.
In this article, we discuss whether you can undergo this surgery a second time. We also explain how your ophthalmic surgeon can help you determine whether it’s the best course of action for you based on your situation and the risks involved.
Continue reading so you can understand the process and make an informed decision.
Why would I need a second surgery?
The majority (more than 95%) of laser eye procedures (such as LASIK eye surgery) result in a successful and permanent vision correction. As a result, these patients often don’t need to see their ophthalmic surgeon for a second surgery. However, a small percentage of procedures aren’t as effective, and others see their results diminish with age as a result of unrelated eye conditions (e.g. presbyopia).
Some patients experience (especially those with high prescriptions to begin with) the over or under correction of their eyes after their first laser eye treatment.
For other patients, the natural ageing process affects the muscles and elasticity of their eyes. As a result, as you age, the lenses of your eyes become harder, and you have trouble focusing, a condition called presbyopia. Often, you would need to wear reading glasses and if left untreated you’ll likely develop cataracts.
These conditions are common in older adults. They’re unavoidable (whether or not you undergo laser surgery), and they cannot be reversed without a lens replacement.
How many times can you have LASIK eye surgery?
In general, there is no limit on how many LASIK procedures you can get in your lifetime.
Several factors affect whether or not you are a good candidate for enhancement surgery. The thickness of the cornea is one of the main determinations regarding the safety of multiple LASIK surgeries.
Other health considerations and personal factors will need to be assessed as well. For example, as you age, your eyes will change, which can cause the prescription and correction made by an initial LASIK surgery to be altered. This can impact vision clarity and may be a factor in considering a secondary LASIK surgery to correct it.
There are risks with multiple surgical procedures, and it may not be the best option for everyone. Your ophthalmologist can help you to determine whether or not LASIK enhancement is safe and optimal for you.
Hopefully that answers your question as to how many times laser eye surgery can be done. To learn more about LASIK and know which treatment is best for you to free yourself from the hassle of glasses and contact lenses, please book online for a free laser vision assessment on our website today.
ARE YOU SUITABLE?
Check your laser eye surgery suitability online with our free LASIK self-test
OUR MOST POPULAR PROCEDURES
WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY…
“Very friendly and professional staff. Dr Russell is extremely informative and has a really positive presence. The doctor and all of the staff ensured all my questions were answered fully. I left the surgery feeling as if I’d been really well cared for.”
Suzanne Cooper“The staff are all friendly and helpful.”
Alana Jenkins“Dr. Russell and the entire team should be commended for their genuine care and personal attention. They made every possible effort to explain and clarify the treatment required and made sure I was comfortable through the consultation treatment.”
Xerxes Meher“I was very impressed with the way they run things. It is a well-oiled machine. Everyone knew exactly what they were doing and were very friendly. To top it off, my treatment was excellent.”
Iris Van Quickelberghe“Dr. Russell is my hubby’s specialist for years. We love him. Such a kind person and always spends time to explain everything.”
Zita Farczadi Kershaw“Highly recommended. They are always helpful and friendly and the outcomes have been beyond my expectations.”
Brad Gooda“Many thanks for your care and skill and a big thanks to all your staff for their friendly care and professionalism shown each time I have visited.”
Henry Ellison“My wife came to see Dr Russell today and we wanted to say thank you to all the staff for the kind and professional service. We are also extremely grateful for Dr Russell’s generosity when it came to us paying for the consultation. We wanted to reach out and say thank you so much!”
Troy and Liana ToddWe have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
Can I get laser eye surgery twice?
Fortunately, whether you develop presbyopia or did not get the full benefits from your first procedure, you may still be able to have a second surgery. Your ophthalmic surgeon will need to determine your eligibility first. They need to be sure your cornea can safely respond to a second eye treatment. To do this, they will take measurements of the cornea’s thickness. Then, if your surgeon approves the secondary procedure, they will reshape the surface of your eye with a high-precision laser. This allows more light to enter your eye so it can focus more effectively.
Are there risks with a second eye treatment?
Part of the answer to the question “Can I get laser eye surgery twice?” involves understanding the risks involved. As with initial treatment, side effects can last for a few days to a few months following the procedure. These side effects may include dry eyes and nighttime glare—as well as a tiny loss of visual acuity, though this is very rare.
Talking with your ophthalmic surgeon about this procedure will help you remain fully informed of the risks.
You make the decision
The answer to the question “Can I get laser eye surgery twice?” involves several different aspects, each of which is unique to you and your situation. Undergoing the high precision laser eye treatment as a second surgery can be beneficial if you’re a candidate. The best option is to speak with your ophthalmic surgeon to decide.
Book your appointment today to decide whether a second surgery is the best option for you.
Found this post useful? Please share!
Hi, I’m Dr. Matthew Russel, your laser and cataract surgery specialist
HI I’M DR. MATTHEW RUSSELL YOUR LASER EYE AND CATARACT SURGERY SPECIALIST
With over 15 years of experience, I enjoy the privilege of helping patients of all ages reclaim clear vision or preserve it for as long as possible.
Vision correction and high-precision cataract surgery hinge on the expertise and skill set of the provider who also has access to the most precise tools for the job. Ophthalmic surgeons like me know how to make treatment safe, comfortable and positive for the patient. They know how to minimise the risk of complications and maximise successful outcomes.
I have a passion for helping my patients enjoy the clear, high-definition vision they need to live rich and active lives. Now, I have hand-picked a team of professionals that share my passion and commitment to exceptional care.
Dr. Matthew Russell
MBChB, FRANZCO
