When Is a LASIK Enhancement Needed?
If you’ve had LASIK surgery and are wondering whether you can further refine your vision, you’re in the right place. LASIK enhancements, also known as LASIK touch-ups, are procedures that can provide vision improvements for those who have previously undergone LASIK.1 Let’s delve into the details of LASIK enhancements and see if they might be right for you.
Understanding LASIK Enhancements?
LASIK enhancements are secondary procedures performed to fine-tune the results of your initial LASIK surgery. While the majority of LASIK patients achieve significant vision improvements after their first procedure, a small percentage may experience residual refractive errors or changes in vision over time. LASIK enhancements can address there issues and help patients achieve their desired level of visual acuity.2
Who Is Eligible for LASIK Enhancements?
Not everyone who has LASIK is eligible for an enhancement. Typically, candidates for LASIK enhancements include individuals who:3
- Have Stable Presciption:3 It is essential that your prescription has remained stable for an appropriate period of time after your initial LASIK surgery to be considered as a safe candidate for a LASIK enhancement
- Meet Health Criteria: You should meet the general health criteria necessary for eye surgery, including having healthy corneas and no active eye diseases.
What to Expect from a LASIK Enhancement:
The process of a LASIK enhancement is similar to the initial LASIK procedure. It involves:
- Comprehensive Examination: You eye surgeon relies upon a thorough examinations, including a cycoplegic refraction, to determine if you are a suitable candidate for an enhancement. This testing may performed by your initial LASIK surgeon’s medical team or potentially your own eye doctor / optometrist.
- Corneal Reshaping: Using advanced laser technology, your surgeon will adjust the corneal shape to correct any residual refractive errors.
- Recovery: The recovery period for a LASIK enhancement is typically the same as the initial procedure as the cornea has already undergone some changes.4 And you’ll still need to follow post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon.
Making the Decision:
Deciding to undergo a LASIK enhancement is a significant choice. If you’re experiencing changes in your vision or are dissatisfied with the results of your initial LASIK surgery, consulting with an experience eye surgeon may be needed. They can assess your individual circumstances and guide you toward the best course of action.
Like and surgery, a LASIK enhancement has risks and potential complications that will be discussed with you during a surgical consultation prior to the procedure.
LASIK enhancements can offer an opportunity to fine-tune your vision and achieve the level of clarity you desire. If you’ve previously had LASIK and are considering an enhancement, consult with a qualified eye surgeon to explore your options and determine whether an enhancement is the right choice for you. Remember, each individual’s situation is unique, and personalized guidance is essential in making informed decisions about your eye health.
- Moshirfar, Majid, Noor F. Basharat, Nour Bundogji, Emilie L. Ungricht, Ines M. Darquea, Matthew E. Conley, Yasmyne C. Ronquillo, and Phillip C. Hoopes. “Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) Enhancement for Residual Refractive Error after Primary LASIK.” Journal of Clinical Medicine 11, no. 16 (August 18, 2022): 4832. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11164832.
- Refractive Surgery Council. “LASIK Enhancements: LASIK Touch-Up Facts,” August 18, 2022. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/understanding-facts-lasik-enhancement/.
- “How to Approach LASIK Enhancements,” October 6, 2014. https://www.reviewofophthalmology.com/article/how-to-approach-lasik-enhancements.
- Refractive Surgery Council. “LASIK Enhancements: LASIK Touch-Up Facts,” August 18, 2022. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/understanding-facts-lasik-enhancement/.
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