Will I Need Eyeglasses After LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) surgery has become a popular option for correcting vision issues such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. It offers many individuals the possibility of life without the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, one question frequently arises for those considering this procedure: Will they still need to wear glasses after LASIK in Weston, FL?

What Does LASIK Do?

The primary goal of LASIK surgery is to reshape the cornea, thereby improving the eye’s ability to focus light directly onto the retina, which can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for corrective lenses. Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or very close to it following the procedure. However, it’s important for LASIK patients to understand that the outcome of LASIK can vary based on several factors, including the patient’s pre-surgery vision prescription, age, and the presence of any other eye conditions. Any or all of those factors can play into whether you will need eyeglasses after LASIK.

You May Not Need Eyeglasses

For most individuals who undergo LASIK, the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses is greatly diminished, especially for those activities that most commonly require vision correction, such as driving or watching television. However, there are scenarios where eyeglasses may still be needed after LASIK:

Presbyopia – This is a natural, age-related condition that affects near vision. Since LASIK can’t prevent the natural aging of the eyes, patients who have undergone LASIK may eventually need reading glasses due to presbyopia.

Regression – A small percentage of LASIK patients experience a gradual return of their original vision condition over time, a phenomenon known as regression. In these instances, additional LASIK surgery may be an option, or the patient might choose to wear glasses for specific tasks.

Individual Variability – Every eye is unique, and individual healing patterns can affect the final outcome. Some patients might find that wearing glasses for particular activities, such as driving at night, enhances their comfort and visual acuity.

Whether or not a patient needs eyeglasses after LASIK, most people find that their vision has improved so much after the procedure that LASIK is well worth it. For more information about LASIK, contact your optometrist in West, FL.