LASIK Results: Your Vision After Surgery

Will I Have 20/20 Vision After LASIK?

Some patients achieve 20/20 vision with LASIK, however, others do not. The term 20/20 vision, sometimes referred to as perfect vision, is used to describe what is considered normal visual acuity, or clarity. A patient with 20/20 vision is able to clearly see at 20 feet what a normal person can clearly see at that distance. A patient with 20/40 vision can see at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can see at 40 feet. Many patients achieve at least 20/40 vision after LASIK.

One of the most important factors in achieving the clearest vision possible is the surgeon that you choose and the technology that is used to perform your procedure. Advancements in technology now allow for an extremely precise map of your eye to be created. This individualized map will guide your surgeon in treating minute imperfections unique to your eye, providing more refined vision results.

Will I Still Need Glasses or Contact Lenses?

Many patients achieve dramatically improved vision following LASIK surgery. However, you may still require corrective eyewear when performing certain activities. For example, you may require glasses or contacts when driving at night, operating machinery, or performing tasks that require extremely sharp vision.

Most patients will continue to experience changes in their vision due to the natural aging process. Patients under the age of 40 who undergo LASIK correction for distance vision usually require reading glasses in the future due presbyopia, an age-related condition that makes it difficult to focus on near objects. Patients who develop presbyopia, which usually develops after the age of 40, may consider monovision LASIK. This technique involves adjusting one eye for distance vision and the other for near vision. Over a period of time, the brain is able to adjust to this change, and many patients are satisfied with monovision. If you are considering monovision, we will prescribe you contact lenses to simulate the effect so that you can make a well-informed decision about whether this type of correction is best for you.

How Long Do Results Last?

Many patients achieve long-lasting vision enhancement following LASIK treatment. Age-related vision changes are inevitable, however. Some patients will require retreatment following surgery in order to refine their results. The chances of requiring retreatment are higher for patients with more severe pre-existing nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

How Can I Learn More?

During an appointment, Dr. Kornstein can explain the many benefits of LASIK and answer any questions you may have about results. If you are interested in learning more about LASIK and your candidacy for the procedure, contact our office to schedule a consultation.