LASIK surgery is a permanent procedure that can improve vision even if you have a high prescription for eyeglasses. The physical effects of the procedure last a lifetime, as it permanently remodels the cornea. However, some people may need to have a LASIK booster surgery after 10 years due to age and changes in vision. When considering LASIK surgery, one of the first questions that many people ask is whether the effects of the procedure will last for life.
The answer is yes, for most patients, LASIK results will last a lifetime. The need for reading glasses, cataracts, and other age-related changes will also affect all people as they age. LASIK, or laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, is a type of eye surgery that reshapes the transparent front of the eye, the cornea, with a laser. When light hits the cornea, it bends to focus on the retina at the back of the eye.
This procedure can correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia (the need for reading glasses). Surgery cannot prevent eye diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or cataracts from deteriorating vision. The future onset of cataracts is another factor to consider when undergoing LASIK laser eye surgery. However, a modified type of LASIK surgery can trick your eyes into retaining near and far vision as you age.
It's important to continue having your eyes examined regularly after LASIK surgery to reduce the risk of untreated eye diseases, usually age-related. Your eye doctor will perform detailed tests on your eyes to determine what type of LASIK surgery is right for you. In conclusion, while vision correction through LASIK surgery is long lasting, the eye's natural aging process changes vision even if you've undergone the procedure. For most patients, LASIK results will last a lifetime and they will continue to see the effects of LASIK forever.
However, some may need to have a LASIK booster surgery after 10 years.
