Laser eye surgery has revolutionized the way people enhance their sight, which is a safe and permanent solution. However, for some people, changes in vision may be gradual which arouses concern regarding the possibility of the procedure being repeated. In today’s blog post, we will discuss whether laser eye surgery can be done more than once, the circumstances under which it can be necessary, and the information that you need if you are thinking about it.
Understanding Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery like LASIK and PRK involves the alteration of the corneal surface to enhance the way the light focuses on the retina. This restructuring process helps to cure diseases such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism and in many cases reduce or even get rid of the need for glasses or contact lenses. Laser eye surgery is in most cases considered a one-off procedure with the outcome expected to last for many years. However, the eye is a flexible organ, and the vision of a person can deteriorate as he or she grows older or because of some other reason.
Situations When Re-Treatment Might Be Needed
Most patients have stable vision after the laser surgery but there are instances when a touch up is needed. Here are some common reasons:
- Under or Over-Correction: It may also happen that the first surgery does not produce the desired outcome completely. Some fine tuning may be required for best vision.
- Vision Regression: A small number of patients report vision deterioration, in which the eye gradually returns to the original prescription. This can be caused by the ageing process or individual healing reactions and processes.
- Age-Related Vision Changes: Presbyopia is a condition that occurs with age, or over 40 years of age where one develops close up vision. This change can bring extra corrective possibilities, although they are not linked to the first surgery.
However, a second procedure may be helpful in these cases but this must be followed by a proper eye check-up to determine suitability.
Eligibility for Repeat Laser Eye Surgery
Vision changes do not automatically mean that a patient is a candidate for another procedure. Eligibility depends on several factors:
- Corneal Thickness: Since laser surgery works on the cornea, it is important to have a proper thickness of the cornea. In some cases, the cornea may be too thin and the surgeon may not be able to perform a second operation.
- Eye Health: Dry eyes or other diseases of the eyes can influence the safety and efficacy of the repeated procedure.
- Initial Surgical Outcomes: The results and the stability of the first surgery also matter. A second procedure may be possible only if the eye has healed and the prescription has not changed for a given time.
Such factors will Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA)be considered and explained by a qualified eye specialist as to which is safe for the patient.
Types of Repeat Procedures
If a repeat procedure is appropriate, several possibilities are available. Here are a few common types:
- LASIK Enhancement: In patients who have undergone LASIK, a minor LASIK enhancement may help correct minor vision changes that have taken place. This procedure is identical to the first LASIK surgery but is normally less time-consuming.
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): Some individuals may require PRK as the second choice, in cases where LASIK is not possible, for instance because of thin cornea. PRK is very similar to LASIK, but no flap is made; PRK may be preferable for people with thin corneas.
It is, therefore, dependent on the patient’s requirement and advice from the eye specialist.
When to Talk to an Eye Specialist
It's important to monitor vision after any eye surgery and consult a specialist if changes occur. Regular eye check-ups are essential for early detection of any vision issues. If you experience any visual changes, blurriness, or discomfort, speak with an eye care professional who can assess whether a repeat procedure might help or if other treatments are more suitable.
In many cases, laser eye surgery offers long-lasting results, but for some, a repeat procedure may be possible if vision changes occur. Consulting an eye specialist is key to understanding your options and making the best choice for your vision needs. If you're considering laser eye surgery or a re-treatment, The Eye Foundation is here to guide you. Book your appointment today to explore how we can support your vision journey with trusted care and expertise.
