How long do LASIK results last?

LASIK eye surgery has become a beacon of hope for millions worldwide seeking liberation from glasses and contact lenses. Its popularity is not just due to the procedure’s efficacy in correcting vision but also because of the longevity of its results.

One common inquiry among prospective patients is, “How long does laser eye treatment last?” This blog aims to explore the durability of LASIK results, factors that might influence changes in vision post-surgery, and the importance of follow-up care.

The Longevity of LASIK Results

The outcomes of LASIK surgery are intended to be permanent. The procedure corrects vision by reshaping the cornea, thereby correcting refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Once the cornea has been reshaped, the changes are meant to last indefinitely. Most patients enjoy the clear vision that LASIK provides without reverting to their previous prescription levels.

But, How Long Does Laser Eye Treatment Last?

While the changes made to the cornea during LASIK are permanent, it’s important to note that the eye can still undergo natural changes over time. These changes can affect vision and may lead to the need for reading glasses or additional vision correction procedures later in life, especially as one approaches the age for presbyopia (the age-related loss of near vision) and cataracts. However, for the vast majority, the clarity of vision achieved after LASIK remains stable for many years.

There is also a small percentage of patients who go through refractive surgery, who have a change in vision in the first six to 12 months, and they develop something called regression. This is where they drift back slightly towards their original focusing error. They become shortsighted again if they had suffered from shortsightedness or they become long-sighted again if they started having long-sightedness.

Those patients need to have some enhancement procedures to fine tune their vision to get them back to the target that they were aiming for with the laser treatment.

Enhancements and Follow-Up Care

For those who experience changes in their vision after LASIK, enhancement procedures are an option. These touch-up treatments can address any minor shifts in vision that occur over time, ensuring patients continue to enjoy clear vision. Regular eye exams are crucial in monitoring eye health and addressing any changes as early as possible.

How to Ensure the Best Long-Term Outcomes

To maximise the longevity of your LASIK results, consider the following tips:

• Regular Eye Exams: Routine check-ups help monitor eye health and vision changes, allowing for timely interventions if necessary.
• Eye Protection: Wearing sunglasses to protect against UV rays and safety glasses during sports or activities that could lead to eye injuries helps preserve vision.
• Manage Eye Health: Addressing eye health issues like dry eye promptly ensures ongoing comfort and vision clarity.
• Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and avoiding smoking, supports overall eye health.

In summary, LASIK offers a long-term solution for those seeking to correct their vision. While the procedure itself makes permanent changes to the cornea, it’s important to acknowledge that natural changes in the eye can still occur over time. With proper care and regular eye exams, the vast majority of LASIK patients can expect to enjoy their new, clear vision for many years to come.

Are you considering LASIK eye surgery and wondering, “How long does laser eye treatment last?” Book online for a free laser vision assessment with our clinic. Our team of eye care professionals will evaluate your vision, discuss the potential longevity of LASIK results specific to your eyes, and address any other questions you may have. Take the first step towards long-lasting clear vision by booking your free assessment today. Embrace the opportunity to see the world more clearly for years to come.

If you would like to learn more about laser eye surgery in Brisbane and understand which treatment is going to be most appropriate for you to free you from glasses and contact lenses, then please go to our website and book online for a free laser vision assessment.