To prevent regression after LASIK, it’s essential to protect your eyes, follow post-surgery care guidelines meticulously, and maintain regular check-ups with your eye doctor.
While LASIK provides long-term vision correction for most patients, taking preventive measures can ensure optimal results last for as long as possible.
Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a widely utilized and highly effective surgical procedure designed to correct vision impairments, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Despite its high success rate, some patients may experience regression—where the corrected vision slightly deteriorates—months or even years after the procedure. This doesn’t mean the surgery has “failed,” but it does indicate the need for targeted measures to prevent further changes in vision or ensure the best outcomes.
If you’ve undergone LASIK or are considering the procedure, ensuring you’re informed about regression and its prevention is key. Below, we’ll explore ways to minimise regression risk, why it happens, and actionable steps you can take to protect your investment in better vision.
What Causes LASIK Regression?
Before understanding how to prevent LASIK regression, it’s important to know why it happens. Regression occurs when the eyes no longer hold the refractive improvement achieved during LASIK fully. Multiple factors may contribute to this phenomenon:
1. Natural Eye Changes
Vision can change as a normal part of ageing, even after LASIK. Conditions like presbyopia, which affects near vision, typically develop after age 40 and are unrelated to the procedure itself.
2. Incomplete Healing or Instability
If the cornea doesn’t heal uniformly or remains unstable, it may affect how light refracts through the eye, leading to a shift in vision over time.
3. Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, like diabetes, hormonal imbalances, or ocular surface diseases, can influence the eye’s health and lead to regression.
4. Environmental Factors
Habits like prolonged screen time, UV exposure, or insufficient eye protection may place strain on your eyes, making them more prone to changes post-LASIK.
5. Higher Initial Prescription
Patients with higher degrees of myopia or hyperopia may face a slightly higher risk of minor regression.
Now that we’ve covered the primary reasons behind LASIK regression, here are proactive measures you can take to minimise the possibility of it happening.
1. Follow Post-Surgery Care Instructions
Immediately after your LASIK procedure, your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions to guide your recovery process. Following these is crucial to achieving the best results. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Use the prescribed medicated eye drops (antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drops) as directed to ensure proper healing and prevent infection.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, as it may disrupt the corneal flap created during the procedure.
- Protect your eyes from smoke, dust, and other potential irritants that may provoke inflammation or slow healing.
- Avoid activities like swimming or using hot tubs for at least a few weeks, as these environments can expose your eyes to bacteria.
By taking care of your eyes during the initial healing phase, you create a strong foundation for optimal vision correction.
2. Protect Your Eyes from UV Exposure
Excessive exposure to UV rays can damage your cornea and lead to complications, including regression. After LASIK, your eyes may be even more sensitive to sunlight. To safeguard your vision:
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses whenever you’re outdoors, even on cloudy days.
- Consider wraparound-style sunglasses for better coverage against harmful rays.
- Avoid sunbathing or activities in high-glare environments (like snow or water) without proper eye protection.
UV damage is cumulative, so taking this measure seriously can have lasting benefits.
3. Maintain Regular Follow-Ups
Routine check-ups with your eye doctor are essential, even if your vision seems stable. These visits allow your specialist to detect any subtle changes and address them promptly.
Your doctor may also identify other underlying factors—like dry eye syndrome or signs of corneal thinning—that could impact your vision over time. Based on these observations, a tailored care plan can be developed to preserve your vision.
- Schedule an eye exam at least once a year.
- Be proactive about scheduling additional appointments if you notice any changes in vision or discomfort.
4. Prioritise Eye Hydration
Dry eye syndrome is a common side effect after LASIK and can contribute to regression by affecting the eye’s overall healing and comfort. To keep your eyes hydrated:
- Administer lubricating eye drops as directed by your healthcare provider. Artificial tears help maintain moisture in the eyes and reduce irritation.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day—dehydration can exacerbate dry eyes.
- Minimise exposure to air conditioning or heating, which tends to dry out the eyes further.
Addressing dry eye issues promptly will ensure your corneas stay healthy and support stable vision.
5. Limit Screen Time and Practice the 20-20-20 Rule
Modern lifestyles often involve prolonged screen use, which can strain your eyes and potentially impact LASIK results. Digital eye strain may not directly cause regression, but it can exacerbate eye fatigue and discomfort.
To protect your eyes during screen use:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.
- Adjust your screen’s brightness and contrast to avoid unnecessary eye strain.
- Blink often to keep your eyes lubricated, especially when focusing on digital screens.
Building these habits into your routine can promote long-term eye health.
6. Avoid Overexertion Early On
While it’s exciting to jump back into your regular activities after LASIK, avoid pushing your eyes too hard—especially during the recovery period. Even after this initial healing phase, it’s important to recognise the signs of overexertion, like headaches or visual fatigue, and take steps to rest your eyes when needed.
Straining your eyes unnecessarily can affect corneal stability and increase the chances of post-surgery complications.
7. Address Any Underlying Conditions
If you have conditions like diabetes, regularly fluctuating hormones, or autoimmune disorders, these can affect the stability of your LASIK results. Collaborate with your healthcare provider to ensure these conditions are managed effectively.
Other issues like allergic reactions or recurring eye infections should be addressed proactively to prevent corneal complications.
8. Consider Enhancements if Necessary
Sometimes, despite best efforts, minor regression might occur. If needed, LASIK enhancements—or touch-ups—can fine-tune your vision again. Most surgeons recommend waiting at least six to twelve months after the initial surgery before considering enhancements to allow for the eyes to fully heal.
Consult your LASIK provider to determine whether you’re a candidate for this procedure and whether it might be necessary to meet your long-term vision goals.
Summing Up
LASIK is a life-changing procedure that offers freedom from glasses and contacts for millions of people. While the risk of regression exists, implementing these preventive measures can significantly reduce it and help you maintain your clear vision for years to come.
Take proactive steps like protecting your eyes, maintaining regular eye check-ups, and adopting healthy habits to ensure that your LASIK results stand the test of time.
If you’re considering LASIK or have questions about preventing regression, contact your optometrist or LASIK surgeon for a personalised consultation. With informed care and attention, you can keep your vision sharp and your eyes healthy—long after the procedure.
