LASIK has been around for over two decades, during which time millions of patients have benefited from the procedure. Most patients who have undergone the FDA-approved eye surgery enjoy perfect 20/20 vision. 

More than 95 percent report they are happy with the results. While there are some side effects like halos and glare immediately after LASIK, cases of long-term complications are rare. Here are the long-term benefits of LASIK. 

LASIK Refractive Surgery

LASIK or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis is an eye surgery that helps correct refractive errors. Your LASIK surgeon cuts a thin cornea flap during the procedure before using a laser to reshape the cornea. The surgery allows light to focus better on the retina. 

LASIK can help correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The surgery is safe and effective, and any side effects usually clear up in a few months. Patients do not have to wear corrective lenses after the surgery. 

Complications From LASIK

Common complications associated with LASIK include dry eyes and visual distortions around lighting. Some patients who have had the surgery find it hard to drive at night. Other less common but more severe complications include:

• Permanent dry eye condition

• Under- or overcorrection, where the surgery fails to achieve 20/20 vision

• Presbyopia results from age-related elasticity or cornea change

• People with cataracts are not good candidates for the procedure
   

Long-term complications are rare, but some side effects can last several months. In a few cases, the side effects can be permanent. Under- and overcorrection can be corrected in a consequent LASIK procedure. 

Long-term Benefits of LASIK
 

LASIK helps reshape the cornea, allowing patients to enjoy 20/40 or better vision. Most patients do not need to wear eyeglasses for daily tasks. You will not have to worry about the cost and maintenance associated with glasses or contacts. The surgery results are permanent, so you do not have to worry about getting stronger lenses as you age. 

However, those who end up with an over- or under-correction may need to wear corrective lenses. If you develop presbyopia after the procedure, your vision may change, necessitating a touch-up. 

Good Candidates for LASIK 

LASIK is a safe and effective vision correction procedure, but it is not for everyone. Ideal candidates for the surgery are:

• People with refractive errors who do not wish to wear glasses or contacts

• Individuals with a stable prescription over the last two years

• Adults between ages 21 to 60

• People with good overall and eye health 

Poor Candidates for Vision Surgery

Some people are poor candidates for laser surgery. You may not qualify for LASIK if you have certain health conditions such as diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or HIV. You can consult your eye doctor to find the best treatment option. 

Other conditions that can make you a poor candidate are having large pupils, dry eye condition, and thin corneas. You may not qualify for LASIK if you have a cornea disorder or keratoconus. 

Your eye doctor will thoroughly examine you to determine if you can get LASIK. If you are a good candidate, you will receive instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
 

For more on the long-term benefits of LASIK, call Coastal Vision Medical Group at our Chino, Irvine, Long Beach, or Orange offices at (888) 501-4496 and schedule an appointment today.