how long does laser vision last

How Long Does Laser Vision Last?

Laser vision correction has become a popular option for people who suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. It involves using a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to improve vision. This procedure has been around for over 20 years, and while it offers an effective solution for people with refractive errors, the question remains about its longevity. How long can you expect your laser vision to last? Let’s find out.

The Science behind Laser Vision Correction

Laser vision correction works by reshaping the cornea to improve the way light enters the eye. The cornea is responsible for roughly two-thirds of the eye’s focusing power, and by reshaping it, the laser can correct the refractive errors that cause blurry vision. There are two main types of laser vision correction procedures: LASIK and PRK.

LASIK involves creating a flap in the cornea, which is lifted to expose the underlying tissue. The laser is then used to reshape the tissue before the flap is replaced. PRK, on the other hand, involves removing the outer layer of the cornea to expose the underlying tissue, which is then reshaped with a laser. The outer layer then grows back over the reshaped tissue.

Laser Vision Correction Results

Most people who undergo laser vision correction experience significant improvement in their visual acuity. According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, the success rate of LASIK is approximately 96%, while the success rate for PRK is around 80-85%.

Factors that Affect the Longevity of Laser Vision Correction

While laser vision correction is a permanent procedure, the eyes can continue to change over time. Some factors that can affect the longevity of the procedure include:

Age:

As we age, our eyes naturally change shape, and this can affect the efficacy of laser vision correction. For this reason, it’s generally recommended that people over the age of 40 consider alternative options, such as reading glasses or contact lenses.

Health conditions:

Certain health conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can affect the eyes and impact the efficacy of laser vision correction. People with these conditions should talk to their eye doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Eye injuries:

Injuries to the eye can also impact the longevity of laser vision correction. If you experience a traumatic injury to the eye, it’s important to let your eye doctor know, as they may need to reevaluate the effectiveness of the procedure.

Environmental factors:

Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as UV radiation, can also impact the longevity of laser vision correction. Wearing sunglasses and taking other precautions to protect the eyes can help preserve the results of the procedure.

Aging:

As we age, our eyes naturally change shape, and this can affect the efficacy of laser vision correction. For this reason, it’s generally recommended that people over the age of 40 consider alternative options, such as reading glasses or contact lenses.

How Long Can You Expect Your Laser Vision to Last?

While laser vision correction is a permanent procedure, it’s important to realize that some people may still require vision correction over time. Factors such as age, health conditions, and lifestyle habits can all impact the longevity of the procedure. Some people may require a touch-up procedure a few years after their initial laser vision correction. In other cases, people may find that they need reading glasses or contact lenses several years after their procedure.

Ultimately, the longevity of your laser vision correction will depend on a variety of factors, and it’s important to talk to your eye doctor about what you can expect. By understanding the potential risks and limitations of the procedure, you can make an informed decision about whether laser vision correction is right for you.