Imagine waking up each morning with clear vision. You are now free from the hassle of glasses or contact lenses. For many, laser eye surgery has turned this dream into reality. But how long does this newfound clarity last?
Let us dive into the specifics of laser eye surgery. We will also discuss what you can expect in terms of the longevity of your improved vision.
Understanding Laser Eye Surgery Near Me
Laser eye surgery, commonly known as LASIK, reshapes the cornea to improve vision. Some individuals colloquially dub the process as “laser eyes.” The cornea, the transparent front portion of the eye, is pivotal in directing light onto the retina.
A misshapen cornea can lead to vision problems. LASIK corrects this by using a precise laser to reshape the cornea.
In addition to LASIK, there are other types of laser eye surgery, such as PRK and RLE. PRK, known as Photorefractive Keratectomy, involves the removal of the outer corneal layer. Then, the eye specialist will reshape the underlying tissue. PRK commonly benefits patients who have thinner corneas.
RLE, or Refractive Lenticule Extraction, creates a small disc of tissue within the cornea. Your eye surgeon will then remove this part through a significantly small cut. It is minimally invasive and can benefit patients with dry eyes or higher degrees of myopia.
Understanding the factors that influence the surgery’s effectiveness over time is crucial.
The Longevity of Laser Eye Surgery Results
Many patients enjoy stable vision for many years after eye surgery to get rid of glasses. The majority of patients experience clear vision for up to 10 years. Some even maintain their improved vision for much longer.
However, the stability of your vision can vary based on several factors. The things that affect longevity include:
Age
Age is a significant factor in how long the results last. Younger patients may enjoy longer-lasting results. This is because their eyes are generally more stable. Also, their bodies are better able to repair and maintain tissue.
Older patients may experience changes in their vision as they age. This may impact the longevity of the surgery.
Health
Overall health can impact the effectiveness of laser eye surgery. Patients with certain health conditions may experience changes in their vision sooner. Health conditions like diabetes and autoimmune diseases can impact eye health. Therefore, prioritizing good health is crucial for sustaining long-term vision stability.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle choices can also influence the results of laser eye surgery. Activities that strain the eyes, such as excessive screen time, can affect vision. Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays is also considered a significant step.
Wearing sunglasses and taking breaks from screens can help maintain your vision as well.
Tips for Maintaining Post-Surgery Vision
You must pay close attention and care for your eyes after laser surgery to maintain a clear vision. Here are practical tips and advice on how to keep your vision sharp and protect your eyes after the surgery.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Making specific lifestyle adjustments can help preserve the quality of your vision after surgery:
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Stay hydrated.
These habits contribute to overall eye health and can extend the benefits of your surgery.
Regular Eye Exams
You will need regular eye examinations to take care of your visual health. These examinations can promptly identify any changes in your eyes. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, which can prevent further deterioration of your vision.
Depending on your condition, you can benefit from attending an annual eye exam or more frequently.
Follow-Up Care
Follow-up care is vital after laser eye surgery. Attending every scheduled follow-up appointment is crucial to ensure proper healing of your eyes.
Your eye doctor can provide you with personalized advice on maintaining your vision. Adhering to their recommendations can make a significant difference.
When to Get Laser Eye Surgery Near Me
Timing can be crucial when deciding to undergo laser eye surgery. Let us examine the ideal circumstances and timing for the procedure.
Ideal Candidates
Laser eye surgery may not fit everyone’s situation. Preferred candidates are generally individuals aged 18 and above with consistent vision. They should have no significant health issues affecting their eyes. A thorough eye exam by a qualified professional is necessary to determine eligibility.
Timing of the Surgery
The timing of the surgery is also important. If you are experiencing frequent changes in your prescription, it may be best to wait. Your vision should be stable for at least one year before undergoing surgery. Discussing your options with an eye specialist is essential.
Laser Eye Surgery Near Me in Coral Gables, FL
The eye care professionals at the Laser Center of Coral Gables are some of the most trusted names in laser vision eye correction in South Florida. Our medical director, Dr. Alberto Aran, is an experienced and respected ophthalmic surgeon and is one of the very first eye doctors to perform LASIK surgery in Florida.
We maintain very high standards of care and safety for our patients. Our team is thorough and will ensure you are a good candidate for any recommended procedure and receive an individualized treatment program. We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about LASIK and address your concerns.
To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (305) 461-0003 or use our appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!