LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a prevalent corrective surgery for vision issues such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. It reshapes the cornea, which results in significant advantages like quick recovery, long-term effects, and less reliance on glasses or contact lenses. However, as eyesight naturally evolves over time, some individuals may ponder if they can undergo LASIK twice. This article explores the possibility of a second LASIK procedure.
Is a Second LASIK Surgery Possible?
Yes, it is possible to undergo LASIK surgery twice, which is also known as the LASIK retreatment or enhancement procedure. However, it’s rare for patients to need a second procedure. Only about 1% to 2% of previous LASIK patients require an enhancement within the first year of treatment. Approximately 5% have a second procedure in their lifetime. Most patients only need one LASIK surgery to improve their vision.
How Often Can You Undergo LASIK?
Generally, there is no set limit on the number of times someone can undergo LASIK eye surgery. The main considerations for qualifying for a LASIK enhancement usually involve the overall health of your eyes, your vision’s stability, and the reasons for considering an additional procedure.
Why Might You Need LASIK Twice?
Though it’s uncommon, several reasons might necessitate a second LASIK procedure. Here are some known reasons:
1. Regression: Changes in the healing process or eye structure after the first LASIK surgery can cause your vision to regress over time, requiring a second LASIK procedure.
2. Residual Refractive Error: After initial LASIK surgery, residual refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism may persist.
3. Aging: As you age, your vision changes gradually, usually changing by about 1% annually. Consequently, your vision might differ by approximately 10 percent nearly a decade after undergoing LASIK.
4. LASIK Surgery Complications: In rare circumstances, complications during your initial LASIK surgery might impact your vision and require a second procedure.
5. Pregnancy: Pregnancy can influence various aspects of eye health and vision, causing hormonal fluctuations that may lead to temporary changes in vision.
6. Cataracts: In older adults, cataract development after the first LASIK surgery might also necessitate a LASIK enhancement.
What’s a LASIK Surgery Touch-Up or Enhancement?
LASIK surgery is a popular method for treating vision problems. Over 90% of patients who undergo LASIK surgery successfully recover from their vision problems. Only 1 to 5% require a LASIK enhancement, which involves a touch-up laser treatment, where the corneal flap is lifted again, and additional laser correction is applied to address any residual vision issues.
What Procedure is Required to Repeat LASIK Surgery?
The protocol for performing a repeat LASIK surgery depends on the residual corneal bed thickness beneath the flap and the type of initial procedure used.
How Long Should You Wait Between LASIK Treatments?
The effectiveness of enhancing LASIK surgery lies in the interval between the initial procedure and the follow-up touch-up treatment. Enhancement should only be considered once the eye’s residual power has stabilized post-surgery. Therefore, a waiting period of 2-3 months is recommended before undergoing enhancement treatment.
In Summary
LASIK surgery is a reliable procedure for correcting your vision. However, in rare cases, you might need a LASIK enhancement. It’s always best to consult your ophthalmologist. Our experts at Shankar Netrika Eye Centre will guide you throughout your LASIK surgery journey and provide necessary assistance. Book an appointment with us today at https://shankarnetrika.com/, or call us at 9920044620.
Dr. Navin Kumar Gupta, a renowned Ophthalmologist, wrote this article. He is the Director of the Shankar Netrika Eye Centre and an experienced eye surgeon based in Mumbai, India. He has been a Retina Fellow at the University of California, Irvine, USA, and a Research Fellow at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, USA.
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