7 Signs That Your LASIK Is Wearing Off: What You Need to Know

LASIK surgery has been a game-changer for many, providing the freedom from readers, glasses and contact lenses. But what happens when the clarity you enjoyed starts to diminish?

If you're noticing changes in your vision years after your LASIK procedure, it might be a sign that your LASIK is wearing off or that other symptoms are developing. Let's dive into the common signs to watch out for and explore your options for maintaining clear vision.

1. Blurry Vision

One of the most obvious signs that your LASIK is wearing off is the return of blurry vision. If you find yourself squinting to read road signs or struggling to see clearly at a distance, it could indicate that your LASIK results are fading.

2. Reading Glasses Dependency

If you're finding that you need reading glasses more often, it could be a sign of presbyopia, a natural age-related change in vision. While LASIK corrects distance vision, it doesn't prevent presbyopia, which typically starts to affect people in their early 40s and beyond.

3. Difficulty Seeing at Night

Experiencing increased difficulty with night vision, such as glare, halos around lights, or trouble seeing in low-light conditions, is another sign. These issues can become more pronounced and can be particularly frustrating during night driving.

4. Frequent Headaches

Headaches can be a sign of eye strain, often resulting from changes in your vision. If you're experiencing frequent headaches, it might be because your eyes are working harder to focus, a potential indicator that your “LASIK is wearing off.”

5. Recurrent Dry Eyes

Dry eyes are a common side effect after LASIK, but if they return or worsen years later, it might be linked to changes in your vision. Persistent dryness can cause discomfort and affect the clarity of your vision.

6. Eye Strain and Fatigue

Constant eye strain and fatigue, especially after prolonged periods of reading or screen time, can signal that your vision has changed. This strain happens because your eyes are overworking to compensate for the diminished effectiveness of your LASIK surgery.

7. Changes in Prescription

If an eye exam reveals that your prescription has changed significantly since your LASIK procedure, it’s a clear sign that the surgery's effectiveness is decreasing. Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor these changes.

Why Does LASIK Wear Off?

LASIK is highly effective, but it doesn't stop the natural aging process of the eyes. Factors such as presbyopia, or the natural stiffening of the lens inside the eye, and other age-related changes can impact vision. Additionally, conditions like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism can still worsen over time.

What Are Your Options If LASIK Wears Off?

If you’re experiencing these signs, don’t worry—there are solutions available. Here are some options to consider:

1. Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a cutting-edge procedure that addresses vision issues by replacing your eye's natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Some of the major benefits of RLE include:

Comprehensive Correction: Unlike LASIK, which reshapes the cornea to correct vision, RLE replaces the lens inside the eye. This makes it a superior option for those experiencing presbyopia (age-related farsightedness) and other significant refractive errors.
Long-Lasting Results: RLE can offer a lasting solution to vision issues, reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. The artificial lens doesn’t degrade over time, providing stable vision correction for life.
Wide Range of Vision: With advanced IOLs, patients can achieve clear vision at multiple distances, addressing issues with both near and far sight simultaneously. This multifocal capability is a game-changer for many.
Prevention of Future Cataracts: Since RLE involves replacing the natural lens, it also eliminates the possibility of developing cataracts in the future, offering dual benefits for long-term eye health.

Who Should Consider RLE? RLE is particularly suitable for individuals over 45 experiencing presbyopia or those with significant refractive errors that make them unsuitable for LASIK enhancements. If you're seeking freedom from readers, RLE might be the best option for you.

SELF TEST: IS RLE RIGHT FOR ME?

2. LASIK Enhancement

For those who are suitable candidates, a LASIK enhancement or touch-up procedure can refine and improve the results of the initial LASIK surgery. Here’s what you need to know:

Quick and Precise: LASIK enhancements are typically quicker than the original procedure, as less tissue needs to be reshaped. The process involves lifting the original flap and making minor adjustments to improve vision clarity.
Effective for Certain Cases: Ideal for those who had a stable vision correction post-LASIK but have experienced minor regressions or changes. However, not everyone qualifies for a LASIK enhancement, as it depends on the corneal thickness and overall eye health.

Who Should Consider LASIK Enhancement? If you’re under 40 years old, your vision changes are minor, and you have sufficient corneal thickness (a question for your ophthalmologist), LASIK enhancement could be a viable option. It’s essential to consult with your eye surgeon to determine if you’re a suitable candidate.

3. Readers, Glasses, or Contact Lenses

Depending on your situation, the simplest solution might be the right one. Here’s how readers, glasses, or contact lenses can help with vision correction:

Non-Invasive: These options are non-invasive and provide immediate correction for vision problems.
Versatile and Customizable: Modern lenses come in various designs and materials, catering to different vision needs, including multifocal lenses for presbyopia and toric lenses for astigmatism.
Convenient: For those who prefer to avoid surgical options, updating your glasses or contact lens prescription can effectively address changes in vision.

Who Should Consider Contact Lenses or Glasses? If you’re not keen on undergoing another surgical procedure or are looking for a non-permanent solution, updating your readers, glasses, or contact lenses can be a good choice for temporary vision correction.

Conclusion

Experiencing changes in vision after LASIK can be concerning, but there are numerous solutions to help regain clear vision. Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) stands out as a comprehensive and lasting solution, particularly for those experiencing age-related vision changes.

Whether it’s considering an RLE, exploring LASIK enhancements, updating your readers or contact lenses, or ensuring regular eye exams, there are effective ways to address these changes and enjoy sharp, clear vision.

Want to learn more about Refractive Lens Exchange? Check out this 1-minute RLE Self Quiz to see if it’s the right option for you.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your eye care professional for advice tailored to your individual circumstances.