Can You have Lasik surgery twice? This is one of the most commonly asked questions about Lasik surgery, especially by those contemplating the procedure. Patients generally want some assurance that the procedure can be safely repeated, if the results from the initial surgery are not satisfactory.
Lasik Surgery
Lasik surgery is done to correct refractive vision disorders such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, and involves the removal of a portion of the corneal tissue, and the reshaping of the surface of the eye.
Can you have Lasik twice?
There are certain circumstances under which Lasik surgery can be repeated. This is commonly referred to as Lasik enhancement. Lasik may be re-done if there were shortcomings with the initial surgery, and a touch-up will help you achieve better vision. This is often recommended if your vision is poor after Lasik, or your distance vision has become blurry.
Patients will have to be thoroughly assessed by their ophthalmologist to ensure that a second procedure is warranted. The doctor will want to rule out the presence of any other condition or eye disease that may be limiting vision.
Your suitability for a second Lasik procedure will depend on several factors, including whether or not there is sufficient corneal tissue. For this reason, eye surgeons are careful to remove only a miniscule amount of tissue when performing Lasik. This is done using advanced lasers that are able to precisely target the cornea.
Lasik enhancement is not common, as most Lasik procedures achieve satisfactory results the first time around (learn more).
If you are in the Washington DC metro area and would like more information on Lasik, contact New View Eye Center, Reston, VA. Call 703 834 9777 to schedule an appointment with ophthalmologist Dr. Jacqueline Griffiths.