Can LASIK Be Done More Than Once? 

6 Tips to Understanding LASIK Enhancement Procedures

LASIK eye surgery has helped millions achieve clear vision, freeing them from glasses and contact lenses. But what happens if, years after LASIK, your vision changes? You might wonder if it’s possible to have LASIK more than once. This blog will explore what LASIK enhancements entail, the circumstances under which you might consider a second procedure, and what to expect if you need another treatment.

1. Why Vision Can Change After LASIK

While LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, our eyes naturally change with age. Some common reasons your vision might change after LASIK include:

– Natural Aging: Conditions like presbyopia, which affects near vision as you age, can develop even in people with excellent distance vision.

– Regressive Changes: Although rare, a small percentage of LASIK patients experience slight vision regression over time.

2. What Is a LASIK Enhancement?

A LASIK enhancement, or secondary LASIK, is a follow-up procedure designed to fine-tune or restore vision clarity if minor vision changes occur after the initial surgery. This enhancement is only performed if the eye is healthy and has enough corneal thickness to allow for additional reshaping.

3. When Might a LASIK Enhancement Be Appropriate?

Your eye doctor will consider several factors before recommending a second LASIK procedure:

– Residual Prescription: If your vision was not fully corrected initially, or if slight regression has occurred, a second LASIK may address it.

– Corneal Thickness: The cornea must be thick enough to allow for safe reshaping.

– Age and Lifestyle Needs: If you’re nearing presbyopic age (around 40+), your doctor might suggest other options, like monovision LASIK or Custom Lens Replacement.

4. What to Expect During a LASIK Enhancement

A LASIK enhancement procedure is very similar to the first LASIK procedure, but usually quicker and less invasive:

– Preparation and Assessment: Your doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation of your eye health, corneal thickness, and vision needs.

– Procedure Overview: Most LASIK enhancements take only a few minutes. The doctor might use your original corneal flap or create a new one if needed.

5. Alternatives to LASIK Enhancements

In some cases, your eye surgeon might recommend alternatives:

   – PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): If your cornea is too thin for another LASIK, PRK may be considered since it doesn’t involve a flap.

   – Custom Lens Replacement: For patients over 40 with presbyopia or those seeking a long-term solution for age-related vision changes, lens replacement surgery may be a better option.

6. How Common Are LASIK Enhancements?

Thanks to advancements in LASIK technology and precise pre-surgery evaluations, most patients achieve long-lasting results without the need for an enhancement.

Yes, LASIK can be done more than once, but it depends on your unique eye health and vision needs. If you’re experiencing vision changes after LASIK, schedule a consultation with our team at Tylock George to assess your options!