How Many Times Can You Get Lasik?

Have you ever wondered, ‘When do I need LASIK again?‘ Many people ask this question after enjoying a clear vision for years after having their first procedure.

Research shows that 95.4% of LASIK patients report being satisfied with the results right after their surgery. But what happens when that perfect vision starts to fade? Is it possible to undergo LASIK again?

LASIK is a life-changing procedure that offers long-term vision correction for most people. However, sometimes things change. Your vision may begin to regress, or other factors may make you consider a second LASIK procedure.

In this post, you will explore why you might need LASIK again when it’s the right time for a second procedure and the potential risks associated with it. Let’s get started!

You’re not alone if you’ve had LASIK and are now unsure if you need it again. Long-lasting vision correction is possible with LASIK. However, some people may require an enhancement procedure since their eyesight changes over time.

In this article, we’ll go over the risks to take into account before making a decision, how many times LASIK can be done safely, and why a second operation might be necessary.

What is LASIK?

Before we dive into the discussion of repeating LASIK, let’s first understand what it actually is. 

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of refractive surgery designed to correct common vision problems. During the procedure, a laser reshapes the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, improving how light is focused on the retina. 

By altering the curvature of the cornea, LASIK helps correct refractive errors such as:

• Nearsightedness (Myopia): Where distant objects appear blurry.
• Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Where close objects appear blurry.
• Astigmatism: Where an irregularly shaped cornea causes blurred or distorted vision.

Can You Get LASIK Twice?

One of the most common questions people ask is, “Can I have LASIK twice?” The short answer is yes! 

Several factors are involved in deciding whether you need a second procedure or not. These include the health of your eyes, the amount of correction needed, and any changes in your vision over time. A second procedure should always be carefully considered based on the individual circumstances.

In many cases, a second LASIK procedure is done as a part of LASIK enhancement. This typically occurs when the first surgery doesn’t fully correct your vision or when your eyesight changes due to aging, regression, or other factors.

While there is no strict limit to how many times you can undergo LASIK, most people only need one procedure. If a second surgery is compulsory, it’s important to ensure that your eyes are in optimal condition to support it.

A comprehensive evaluation by your ophthalmologist will help determine if you’re a good candidate for a repeat LASIK procedure.

Why and When You May Need LASIK Again?

If you’re wondering why you might need LASIK again, here are a few common reasons. 

1. Refractive Errors Not Fully Corrected

Sometimes, after the first LASIK surgery, your vision may not be fully corrected. If you’re still dealing with blurry vision or find that you need glasses for specific tasks, such as reading or driving at night, LASIK enhancement might be a good option to consider.

2. Changes in Vision as You Age

As we age, it’s natural for our vision to change. Many people start experiencing presbyopia after the age of 40, which makes it harder to focus on close objects.

Even if your LASIK procedure was a success years ago, age-related changes in your vision might mean you need a second one to address these new issues.

3. Regression

Sometimes, your vision might start to regress over time. This means that your eyesight, which was stable after LASIK, may begin to deteriorate again. 

If you notice a decline in your vision in some months or even years after the first surgery, it could be time to consider a follow-up LASIK procedure to restore clarity.

4. Irregular Healing or Scarring

In rare cases, complications during the healing process can affect the results of the first surgery. If you experience scarring or abnormal tissue growth, your vision might be impacted, and a second LASIK procedure could help fix the issues by restoring your vision to its optimal state.

Risks and Complications for getting LASIK Twice

While LASIK enhancement can offer valuable results, it’s important to understand the potential risks of undergoing LASIK after LASIK. Though rare, here are the key signs to watch for:

• Corneal Ectasia: Sudden vision changes, like blurriness or distortion, may indicate corneal ectasia, especially if your cornea was thin after the first surgery.
• Infection or Inflammation: Redness, swelling, pain, or light sensitivity could signal infection or inflammation. Seek prompt medical attention if these occur.
• Dry Eyes: If you feel gritty or discomfort in your eyes or notice excessive tearing, dry eyes may get worse after a second surgery.
• Visual Aberrations: Halos, glare, or starbursts—especially at night—could become more noticeable, indicating changes to your cornea after the second procedure.

Considering LASIK enhancement? Schedule a consultation with our specialists to explore your options

If you’re thinking about LASIK, choosing the right eye care center is essential. At Texan Eye, we offer advanced LASIK surgery with a personalized approach, ensuring you get the best care and results.

For those who may not be eligible for a second LASIK procedure, alternatives like PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) or lens implants can offer effective solutions. Discussing these options with our eye care professionals can help you find the best treatment for your specific needs.

Conclusion

LASIK can significantly improve your vision and reduce reliance on glasses or contacts. However, in some cases, a second procedure may be necessary to maintain clear vision.

Are you still wondering, “if you need to do LASIK again?” It is best to consult with an experienced surgeon at Texan Eye to determine if you actually need enhancement surgery.

FAQs