How long does laser eye surgery last? This is a common question asked by many prospective patients.
Laser eye surgery has become an increasingly popular choice for individuals seeking to escape the limitations of glasses and contact lenses.
Canberra Eye Laser offers improved vision, leading to a more active and convenient lifestyle. However, one of the most common concerns among patients is the longevity of the results.
Here’s the good news; laser eye surgery can provide lasting benefits for many years.
Key takeaways from this article:
- Laser eye surgery procedures permanently reshape the cornea, correcting
vision problems and reducing reliance on glasses or contact lenses. - While the results are long-lasting, natural age-related changes can affect
vision later in life. - After laser eye surgery, proper post-operative care and regular eye
checkups are crucial for optimal vision.
Understanding Laser Eye Surgery Results
Laser eye surgery has revolutionised vision correction. At Canberra Eye Laser, we offer three types of laser eye surgery, including SMILE Pro, LASIK Pro and PRK, all of which employ advanced lasers to reshape the cornea, the clear dome at the front of the eye that focuses light onto the retina.
By precisely modifying the corneal shape, laser eye surgery corrects common vision problems such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism. This results in sharper, clearer vision without the need for glasses and contact lenses.
The benefits of laser eye surgery extend beyond improved vision. It can enhance your quality of life by:
- Reducing reliance on glasses and contact lenses, leads to greater
freedom and convenience. - Eliminating the frustration and discomfort associated with wearing glasses
or contact lenses during exercise, travel, or other activities. - Boosting self-confidence.
Duration of Laser Eye Surgery Results
The good news is that laser eye surgery results are designed to be permanent. The procedure reshapes the cornea, and these changes generally hold up well over time.
It’s important to note that this doesn’t guarantee perfect vision forever. As we age, our eyes naturally undergo changes, most notably presbyopia, which affects the ability to focus on near objects starting around the early to mid-40s.
Another thing is that laser eye surgery doesn’t address presbyopia, so you might still need reading glasses later in life. For some individuals, slight regression (a return of some degree of vision correction) may occur after the initial procedure. However, this can often be addressed with an enhancement procedure.
Overall, laser eye surgery offers a long-lasting solution for vision correction. With proper care and realistic expectations, you can enjoy the benefits of clear vision for years to come.
What to Expect During the Laser Eye Surgery Procedure
The specific laser eye surgery procedure you undergo depends on your individual needs and corneal anatomy. Common laser eye surgery procedures and the procedures that Canberra Eye Laser offers include LASIK Pro (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis), PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) and SMILE Pro (small incision lenticule extraction).
Here’s a general overview of what you can expect during a laser eye surgery procedure:
- Preparation: Your doctor will discuss the procedure in detail, answer your questions,
and perform a comprehensive eye exam. - Numbing: Anaesthetic eye drops will be applied to numb the area.
- Laser Treatment: Using a computer-guided laser, the surgeon precisely
reshapes the cornea to correct your vision. - Completion: Following the procedure your eyes will be blurry, so it’s best
to rest and close your eyes as much as possible for the first few hours.
While the procedure itself is brief, there will be additional time for pre-operative preparation and post-operative monitoring, so expect to be at Canberra Eye Laser for up to 2 hours.
What to Expect After Laser Eye Surgery
Following laser eye surgery, it’s normal to experience some temporary discomfort, including temporary blurred vision, light sensitivity, and watering eyes. These side effects typically subside within a few days.
Most people wake the next day and are surprised with how well they can see, but results will vary depending on the type of procedure.
Your doctor will provide you with specific post-operative instructions, which may include:
- Using prescribed eye drops to promote healing and prevent infection.
- Wearing protective eye shields while sleeping.
- Avoiding strenuous activity for a short period.
- Avoiding swimming, hot tubs, and saunas for a set timeframe.
Following these instructions carefully is crucial for optimal healing and long-term success.
“I have been wanting laser correction surgery for a very long time and since stepping foot into Canberra Eye Laser Centre I have absolutely no regrets. The team and surgeons I say are the best of the best, I can't thank them all enough and made me feel so very comfortable with my experience I can safely say I highly recommend them. You won't be disappointed with the service, care and professionalism of the team. Bless you all and thanks so much for everything. Cheers” - Anthony, Google review.
What Affects the Longevity of Laser Eye Surgery Results?
Several factors can influence how long the results of laser eye surgery last.
Here are some key considerations:
- Age at the time of Surgery: Patients between the ages of 21-40 are generally
good candidates for laser eye surgery as their corneas are more stable. - Pre-existing eye conditions: Certain eye conditions, such as dry eye or
corneal abnormalities, can affect the results of laser eye surgery. - Overall eye health
- Post-operative care: Diligent adherence to post-operative instructions is
crucial for optimal healing and long-term vision stability. - Lifestyle factors: Exposure to environmental factors like excessive sun exposure,
smoke, or dust can potentially impact vision. - General health: Underlying health conditions can affect eye health and vision,
including after laser eye surgery.
What to Expect After Laser Eye Surgery: Post-Surgery Care and Maintenance
To maximise the longevity of your laser eye surgery results, it’s essential to prioritise post-operative care and ongoing eye health maintenance.
- Follow-up appointments: Regularly scheduled check-ups with your eye
surgeon are vital to monitor your vision and address any concerns. - Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes
from harmful rays. - Maintain good eye hygiene: Practise good hand hygiene to prevent eye infections.
- Manage dry eyes: If you experience dry eyes, use artificial tears or other
recommended treatments.
At Canberra Eye Laser, we are committed to providing exceptional care and achieving optimal outcomes for our patients.
Ready to experience the freedom of clear vision? Contact us today to schedule a free assessment and learn more about your laser eye surgery options.