Can you get LASIK twice?
Carlsbad Vista Encinitas LASIK
Most people choose LASIK because they’re looking for a permanent vision correction procedure. It’s true that LASIK is considered to be a long-term vision correction solution. In fact, research has shown that LASIK provides good visual outcomes in the vast majority of patients, and almost all patients report that they’re satisfied with the results of their laser vision correction procedure.
However, there may be some instances where someone wants to have LASIK again. Why might this happen? Is it possible to have LASIK twice?
LASIK enhancements may be necessary for some people
The computer that controls the laser during a LASIK procedure is extremely accurate. However, the outcome of LASIK also depends on the healing process that occurs in the eye afterwards, and this isn’t exactly the same in every person. This is why LASIK doesn’t always produce 20/20 vision in everyone. Although most people achieve vision of 20/40 or better, many people are hoping for “perfect” 20/20 vision, and may be disappointed if this doesn’t occur.
It’s possible to have a LASIK enhancement if you didn’t get the visual outcome that you wanted. After LASIK, your vision can still change for at least three months afterwards, so it’s best to wait at least this long to determine what the final outcome will be. At this point, if you’re still not happy with your vision, you could choose a LASIK enhancement. It’s usually possible to use the same corneal flap that was created during the first procedure, so the enhancement procedure is quicker and easier than the original procedure.
Long-term changes to the eye may still occur
Although the results of LASIK are permanent, the eye can change over time. In some cases, this can lead to changes in your vision, which might mean that you start to require vision correction again. You could choose to use glasses or contacts for this, or you might want to have LASIK again. It’s generally possible to have LASIK a second time, but you’ll have somewhat less corneal tissue to work with because of the changes made during the first procedure. You’ll need an evaluation by a qualified professional to determine whether LASIK would be a good option for you to consider. Overall, if it’s been a few years since you first had LASIK, the second one will be very similar to the first in terms of the procedure and recovery.
It’s also important to know that there are age-related changes that occur to the lens of the eye. The lens becomes stiffer, which makes it harder for the lens to change shape in order to focus on close objects. This is known as presbyopia, and it usually starts in a person’s 40s. LASIK can’t help with this, because it doesn’t affect the lens of the eye (which is located behind the pupil), but rather the cornea (the clear tissue at the front of the eye).
Are you considering Carlsbad Vista Encinitas LASIK?
If you’re considering having a second LASIK procedure, your next step is a consultation with a professional in this field. They can evaluate your current vision and eye health, and let you know whether having a second LASIK procedure would be a good option for you, or whether a different vision solution might be better for you.
If you’re in our area, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our expert eye surgeons here in our Carlsbad CA office. With their many years of training and experience, you’ll know that you’re placing your vision in good hands. Please contact our front desk to schedule your appointment.
