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Originally Posted On: https://bluefinvision.com/blog/is-laser-eye-surgery-permanent/

Is Laser Eye Surgery Permanent?

Welcome to Blue Fin Vision, the premier eye clinic located in the heart of London on the renowned Harley Street. If you’re considering laser eye surgery to correct your vision, one of your primary questions might be: “Is laser eye surgery permanent?” In this blog post, we will explore the longevity of laser eye surgery and delve into why your vision may change over time even after undergoing this corrective procedure.

Understanding Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery, including popular procedures like LASIK, is a medical intervention designed to correct refractive errors by reshaping the cornea, which allows light to be properly focused onto the retina. The primary goal is to reduce or eliminate dependence on spectacles or contact lenses for those with myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), and astigmatism.

Permanence of Laser Eye Surgery

At Blue Fin Vision Eye Clinic, we believe in providing clear and precise information to our patients so they can make well-informed decisions about their eye health. While laser eye surgery is often marketed as a permanent solution, it is not. Therefore, it is essential to understand the nuances and longevity of its effects.

Understanding Longevity

Differentiating Hyperopes and Myopes:
Laser eye surgery outcomes can vary based on whether the patient is myopic (nearsighted) or hyperopic (farsighted).

• Myopic Patients: For individuals with myopia, the positive effects of laser eye surgery typically last between 10 to 15 years, offering a significant period of freedom from glasses. The stability of the patient’s prescription prior to surgery plays a crucial role in determining the longevity of the results. If a patient’s prescription has been stable over the preceding five years, the treatment tends to last longer. Conversely, if myopia was progressing before surgery, the duration of effectiveness may be shorter.
• Presbyopia Considerations: It is also important to note that presbyopia, a condition affecting near vision, usually sets in between the ages of 51 and 55. Myopic patients entering this age range may find themselves needing reading glasses.
• Hyperopic Patients: On the other hand, hyperopic patients tend to experience more rapid regression. Typically, they may require glasses again within 2 to 4 years after their initial treatment. Due to the predictable nature of this regression, Blue Fin Vision Eye Clinic very rarely treats hyperopic patients with laser eye surgery as we believe it does not provide good value for them.

Our Expertise

These insights are based on the extensive experience of performing over 2,000 laser eye surgeries and reflect our commitment to quality care and patient satisfaction. It’s important to differentiate this experience-based knowledge from clinical evidence, yet it underscores our practical understanding of patient outcomes.

Factors Influencing Vision Changes Post-Surgery

While the changes to the cornea are permanent, several factors can cause changes to your vision after laser eye surgery:

Age-Related Vision Changes

Aging is a natural process that affects various parts of the body, including the eyes. Even after successful laser eye surgery, it’s common for individuals to experience age-related vision changes. Two primary conditions are:

• Presbyopia: Typically occurring in the early 50’s, presbyopia is the gradual loss of the eye’s ability to focus on close objects. This usually necessitates the use of reading glasses, even for those who have had laser eye surgery.
• Cataracts: These are cloudy formations in the eye’s lens that typically develop in older age, leading to vision changes. Thankfully, cataracts are treatable with a relatively simple surgical procedure.

Complications During Surgery

Although rare, complications during laser eye surgery can affect its permanence. In some cases, such as incomplete formation of the corneal flap, additional surgery may be required. However, with advancements in technology and skilled surgeons, such occurrences are minimal.

The Long-Term Outlook

Laser eye surgery provides a long-lasting solution for many patients. While it corrects your vision at the corneal level, it doesn’t stop the natural aging process of your eyes. Here are some long-term expectations and considerations:

• Permanent Corneal Changes: The structural changes made to the cornea are designed to last indefinitely, meaning that you won’t need to worry about the initial correction fading away.
• Future Enhancements: If your vision changes due to aging or other factors, additional treatments or procedures, such as adjustments for presbyopia or cataract surgery, may be required to maintain optimal vision.
• Lifestyle Improvements: Many patients enjoy a life free from glasses and contact lenses, allowing them to engage in activities and hobbies without visual aids.

Conclusion

Laser eye surgery, when conducted by experienced professionals at a reputable eye clinic like Blue Fin Vision on Harley Street, offers a permanent and effective solution to common refractive issues. However, it’s essential to maintain realistic expectations about age-related changes and potential future needs for adjustments.

For personalised advice and to explore whether laser eye surgery is suitable for you, book a consultation with us today. At Blue Fin Vision, our dedicated team in London is committed to providing you with the highest standard of care and helping you achieve your best possible vision.

Contact us now on Harley Street, London, and step into a clearer, brighter future with Blue Fin Vision.