LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is refractive surgery that uses a laser to reshape the cornea so light focuses more accurately on the retina. It is commonly used for myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism in appropriately selected adults.
LASIK can reduce dependence on eyeglasses or contact lenses, but it does not guarantee perfect vision and does not stop normal age-related changes. In particular, LASIK does not prevent presbyopia. Many people eventually need reading or other near-vision correction as they age.
Candidacy requires a detailed eye evaluation. The National Eye Institute notes that stable vision is important. Corneal shape and thickness, prescription, pupil size, ocular-surface health and the presence of other eye disease all influence whether LASIK is appropriate.
Certain conditions can increase risk or make LASIK unsuitable, including keratoconus, active eye infection, significant dry eye, some glaucoma situations and cataract. Pregnancy, medications and systemic disease may also affect timing or candidacy and should be discussed with the surgeon.
The FDA explains that contact lenses can temporarily alter corneal shape. A surgeon may therefore ask patients to stop wearing contacts for a period before baseline measurements. The exact period varies by lens type and surgeon protocol.
Temporary dryness, glare, halos, light sensitivity, blur and double vision can occur after LASIK. Many side effects improve as the eye heals, but some can persist. Less common risks include infection, problems with corneal healing and loss of best-corrected vision. These risks should be discussed with the refractive surgeon before consent.
Vision can improve quickly, but final healing and visual stabilization take time. NEI notes that the eye may take two to three months to finish healing. Follow-up appointments are important for checking the cornea, symptoms and visual outcome.
Possibly. Some patients still use glasses for night driving, fine-detail work or residual prescription. Presbyopia also develops with age regardless of whether a person had LASIK. Keeping an updated pair of prescription glasses can remain useful.
LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct refractive error. It can reduce reliance on glasses or contacts, but not everyone is a candidate, side effects are possible, and presbyopia still occurs with age. A comprehensive pre-operative evaluation is essential.
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Does LASIK permanently fix vision?
LASIK permanently changes corneal shape, but vision can still change over time because of aging, presbyopia, cataract development or other eye changes.
Can LASIK fix presbyopia?
Standard LASIK does not stop presbyopia. Some surgical strategies can reduce near-vision dependence, but trade-offs should be discussed with a refractive surgeon.
Can dry eye affect LASIK candidacy?
Yes. Dry eye can increase symptoms and complicate recovery, so ocular-surface health is part of pre-operative assessment.
Do I need to stop contacts before a LASIK consultation?
Often yes. Contact lenses can alter corneal shape, so the surgeon may request a lens-free period before measurements. Follow the surgeon’s specific instructions.
Does Eye Gallery perform LASIK?
The audited website does not currently state that Eye Gallery performs LASIK. This article should remain educational unless the client confirms a specific service or referral relationship.
