How Long Do The Results Of LASIK Eye Surgery Last?
LASIK eye surgery is a type of refractive correction procedure that can fix common vision problems, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (blurry vision at all distances). Most vision problems are caused by an issue in the way the eye refracts light. But during LASIK, the cornea is reshaped to ensure light bends in the correct way in order to create a clear image.
If you’re considering LASIK, it’s normal to be nervous or have questions about the procedure. One of the most common questions potential candidates ask is how long the results of LASIK last. Below, we discuss the permanency of LASIK eye surgery and why its longevity is one of the reasons it’s such an excellent investment.
Is LASIK Eye Surgery Permanent?
In short, the answer is yes. LASIK eye surgery permanently changes the shape of the eye’s cornea, and this doesn’t wear off in time. Many of our patients enjoy clear vision for decades after their procedure.
However, it’s still possible that your vision will change over time. This is because while LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea to correct common vision problems, it can’t protect against the development of age-related eye conditions, such as presbyopia or cataracts.
The good news is that our team at LASIK MD offers a variety of vision correction procedures aside from standard LASIK eye surgery, which can help treat age-related eye conditions. For instance, we offer both laser and lens PresbyVision™ to treat presbyopia, which often first becomes noticeable in your early to mid-40s.
In addition, you may be eligible for a touch-up in the rare event that your vision changes following LASIK surgery. At LASIK MD, our 20/20 vision commitment provides eligible patients with corrective enhancement treatments at no cost. This allows us to ensure you continue seeing with clear vision throughout your whole life.
Please note that the need for an enhancement is very uncommon. For example, one study published in 2017 found that only 10% of LASIK patients require a touch-up, and it's often years after their procedure, if ever.
The Long-Term Satisfaction of LASIK
At LASIK MD, our track record of safety and success speaks for itself. The majority of our patients achieve clear vision following their procedure, and their results often last a lifetime. This has resulted in an extremely high patient satisfaction rate.
According to the American Refractive Surgery Council, a study published in the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery found that upwards of 96% of patients report being satisfied with their visual results atter LASIK, which is the highest of any elective medical procedure. But at LASIK MD, 99% of our former patients report being satisfied with the results of their procedure.
Plus, it also helps that LASIK can save you money over your lifetime. After LASIK, you’ll spend less on recurring costs associated with frames, prescription sunglasses, and contact lenses. Use our savings calculator to discover how much you could save after laser vision correction.
The main takeaway is that LASIK eye surgery offers permanent results and has a track record of patient success and satisfaction. Glasses and contact lenses are an inconvenience, but you don’t need to put up with them thanks to LASIK. Discover the freedom that a vision correction procedure can permanently bring to your life.
If you're interested in learning more about how LASIK eye surgery or another vision procedure can transform your life, book a free, no-obligation consultation today.