Life After Laser: How Long Do the Results Really Last?

The allure of waking up with crystal-clear vision, free from glasses or contact lenses, is a powerful one. Laser eye surgery has transformed the lives of millions, offering a significant improvement in sight. But a common and very valid question often arises for those considering the procedure: How long do the results of laser eye surgery last?

At Sana Private Health, we provide our patients with expert information and realistic expectations. So, what you can expect in the years following your procedure?

The Good News: Long-Term Stability

For the vast majority of patients, the results of laser eye surgery are remarkably stable and long-lasting. The fundamental change made during the surgery – reshaping your cornea to correct your refractive error – is permanent. The tissue removed or reshaped during the procedure does not grow back.

This means that if your vision was corrected to 20/20, it’s highly likely to remain 20/20 or very close to it for many, many years to come. The majority of patients maintain excellent vision without glasses or contact lenses for well over a decade, and often for a lifetime.

Factors That Can Influence Long-Term Vision

While the structural changes from laser eye surgery are permanent, there are a few factors that can influence your vision over time, which are important to understand:

Natural Ageing of the Eye This is the most common reason people find themselves needing reading glasses after laser eye surgery, typically starting in their early to mid-40s. Presbyopia is a natural part of the ageing process where the eye’s natural lens gradually loses its flexibility, making it harder to focus on close-up objects. Laser eye surgery corrects the cornea, not the lens, so it cannot prevent or cure presbyopia. Many people who had perfect distance vision after laser surgery will still need reading glasses as they age.

Cataracts  Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that also occurs with age. While completely unrelated to laser eye surgery, cataracts can develop years or even decades after your procedure and will naturally cause a decline in vision. If you develop cataracts, they can be treated with cataract surgery at our private hospital in Swansea or Cataracts Centre of Excellence in Bridgend, which involves replacing the cloudy lens with a new, clear artificial lens. Your previous laser eye surgery will not prevent this and does not complicate future cataract surgery.

Rare Regression In a very small percentage of cases, some patients may experience a slight regression of their refractive error over time. This means their vision may not be quite as sharp as immediately after surgery, and they might require a minor ‘enhancement’ procedure (a touch-up). This is more common in individuals with very high initial prescriptions.

Underlying Eye Conditions Any new eye conditions that develop over time (unrelated to the laser surgery itself), such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, could also impact your vision. Regular eye check-ups are essential to monitor for and manage such conditions.

What Does This Mean for You?

Laser eye surgery provides a permanent correction for your current refractive error. It significantly reduces or removes your dependence on glasses or contact lenses for the long term.

At Sana Private Health, we encourage regular comprehensive eye examinations, even after laser vision correction. These check-ups allow us to monitor your overall eye health, detect any age-related changes like presbyopia or cataracts early, and ensure your vision remains as sharp and healthy as possible throughout your life.

If you’re considering laser eye surgery, rest assured that the results are designed for longevity. While the natural ageing process will eventually bring changes to your eyes, the freedom and clarity of vision achieved through laser correction are benefits that most patients enjoy for many, many years to come.

Contact us today for a consultation and discover if laser eye surgery is the right choice for you: Contact | Private hospital in Wales | Sana