Has Your Vision Worsened After LASIK Eye Surgery?

Having undergone LASIK surgery can be an exciting time, with many reporting clearer vision and improved quality of life. However, it's important to understand that vision changes can sometimes occur post-surgery. This article explores the common concerns and the process of LASIK, along with how to manage any changes to your vision.

Common Concerns and the Post-Surgery Experience

According to healthcare professionals, one of the main concerns after LASIK surgery is the potential for vision to deteriorate. This can happen due to various factors, including the natural aging process. It's not uncommon for the prescriptions of people who have had LASIK to change over time, especially as they enter their 40s and beyond.

Why Vision Might Change

Natural Aging Process: As individuals age, the muscles around the eye and the crystalline lens of the eye can change, leading to presbyopia (a condition where the ability to focus on close objects diminishes). This can result in needing reading glasses even for those who had their distance vision corrected with LASIK. Post-Surgical Complications: Some individuals may experience complications post-LASIK, such as dry eye syndrome, which can affect vision clarity and comfort. Prescription Changes: If there are changes in your prescription following LASIK, it's crucial to regularly have your eyes checked by an optometrist or ophthalmologist to monitor for any changes. Retreatments: Many clinics offer free retreatments if your vision deteriorates to less than 20/40. These retreatments can help correct vision issues but should be discussed with your eye care provider.

A Personal Perspective

From an optometrist's point of view, many individuals who underwent LASIK in their younger years (20s and 30s) experience a change in their vision as they age. It is not uncommon for nearsighted individuals to develop farsightedness (hyperopia) in their 40s and 50s. This suggests that LASIK may simply shift the focus of vision problems rather than eliminating them entirely.

Optometrist's Recommendation on LASIK Surgery

Based on expert opinions and personal experiences, here are some guidelines on LASIK:

For Nearsightedness Levels

-5.00 to -10.00:** Do not undergo any corneal surgery. Consider a clear lens extraction (cataract surgery without cataracts), which can correct both near and far vision issues. -2.00 to -4.50:** Consider LASIK if your corneas are thick enough. Opt for a residual nearsightedness (about -1.00) to account for future vision changes. Less than -2.00:** Avoid LASIK entirely. The commonality of nearsighted individuals becoming farsighted later in life makes it wiser to maintain some nearsightedness to ensure clear vision.

It's important to discuss these options with an eye care professional to make an informed decision. Regular eye exams and open communication with your doctor can help manage any vision changes effectively.

Personal Experience with LASIK

Personally, I had LASIK a couple of years ago, and it has significantly improved my quality of life. While I do need reading glasses for close-up work, the convenience of not wearing glasses 24/7 is invaluable. My vision is excellent, and I expect it to remain clear after addressing any secondary issues.

Other challenges I've faced, such as Sjogren's Syndrome, torn retinas, and double cataracts, have required additional surgery. However, my LASIK surgery has proven the best eye correction method for me. At 62, I anticipate maintaining my clear vision in both eyes.

Remember, while LASIK can improve quality of life, it's crucial to follow up with regular eye examinations and stay informed about any changes in your vision. Consulting with an optometrist or ophthalmologist is key to managing any potential issues effectively.