LASIK corrects refractive errors that affect how your eyes focus, but it doesn’t stop the natural aging process that makes close-up vision more difficult.
This change, called presbyopia, commonly becomes noticeable in your 40s. Even if you have clear distance vision after LASIK, you may eventually need reading glasses for books, phones, menus and other close-up tasks.
If you’re approaching or past age 40, talk with your surgeon about how LASIK may affect your distance and near vision over time.
LASIK doesn’t cause the natural aging process responsible for presbyopia. However, correcting nearsightedness can change how you experience close-up vision.
For example, someone who is nearsighted may be able to read up close without glasses before LASIK. After their distance vision is corrected, they may notice difficulty focusing on nearby objects as presbyopia develops.
This doesn’t mean LASIK has damaged your near vision. It means your eyes’ natural ability to focus up close may be changing.
Yes. You can wear prescription glasses after LASIK if you need them. Some people may need glasses for certain activities, such as driving at night or reading, while others may need them if their vision changes over time.
LASIK is designed to reduce dependence on corrective lenses, not guarantee that you’ll never need them again. Your individual results depend on several factors, including your prescription, healing and natural changes in your eyes.
LASIK results are intended to provide lasting vision correction, but your eyes can continue to change with age. Some people also have a small amount of prescription remaining after surgery.
If your vision becomes blurry or you notice a change, schedule an eye examination with your eye care professional. Depending on the cause, glasses may be sufficient, or your surgeon may discuss whether an enhancement procedure is appropriate.
An enhancement isn’t right for everyone and requires a separate evaluation.
Some people who want to reduce their dependence on reading glasses may be candidates for monovision LASIK. This approach corrects one eye primarily for distance and the other to help with near vision.
Monovision involves a trade-off, and not everyone adapts comfortably to it. Your surgeon may recommend trying monovision with contact lenses before deciding whether it’s right for you.
A consultation can help you understand which vision correction options align with your prescription, lifestyle and expectations.
The best way to understand your likely results is to have your eyes evaluated by a qualified LASIK surgeon. During your consultation, ask how your current prescription, age and near-vision needs may affect your results, including the possibility of needing glasses in the future.
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