“I’ve been wearing glasses since second grade. I want to wake up and see without having to worry about putting glasses on.”
How painful was the surgery?
“I didn’t feel nothing at all.”
Ready to learn more about laser eye surgery, with the help of a knowledgeable, experienced team? Start by scheduling your free consultation at your local The LASIK Vision Institute. You can schedule your free consultation by calling directly or on our website. Your free consultation is the perfect opportunity to ask questions, learn more about financing and payment options, and meet your local The LASIK Vision Institute team.
Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
“I’m really excited to see without glasses or contacts. I feel like they just interrupt what I want to do on a day to day. “
What can you see without your glasses?
“Nothing. Everything is blurry”
Ready to learn more about laser eye surgery, with the help of a knowledgeable, experienced team? Start by scheduling your free consultation at your local The LASIK Vision Institute. You can schedule your free consultation by calling directly or on our website. Your free consultation is the perfect opportunity to ask questions, learn more about financing and payment options, and meet your local The LASIK Vision Institute team.
Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
LASIK eye surgery is renowned for its ability to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. But a common question remains: Will I still need glasses after LASIK? The answer depends on several factors, including your age, vision goals, and eye health over time.
Key Takeaways
Most LASIK patients don’t need glasses for distance vision.
Reading glasses may still be necessary after age 40 due to presbyopia.
Results can last decades, but vision may change naturally with age.
Understanding LASIK: What It Corrects
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors such as:
Refractive Error
Vision Issue Corrected
Can LASIK Help?
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Blurry distance vision
✅ Yes
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Blurry near vision
✅ Yes
Astigmatism
Distorted or blurred vision
✅ Yes
The procedure is designed to reduce or eliminate the need for corrective lenses — but it doesn’t prevent age-related changes to the eye.
Age Matters: Why You Might Still Need Glasses Later
Presbyopia After 40
Even after a successful LASIK procedure, many patients over the age of 40 eventually require reading glasses. This is due to presbyopia, a natural age-related loss of the eye’s ability to focus on close objects — not a failure of the LASIK procedure (American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2022).
Vision Changes in Your 50s and Beyond
With age, the eye’s lens can become less flexible, leading to:
Difficulty focusing at different distances
The need for bifocals or readers, even after LASIK
Possible cataract development, which LASIK does not prevent
Dr. Kostakis answers the question, ‘will I need glasses after LASIK?’
Types of Vision Correction After LASIK
Depending on your personal needs and preferences, several options are available if vision changes occur post-LASIK:
Option
Best For
Notes
Reading Glasses
Presbyopia
Common after 40
Monovision LASIK
Mixed Distance/Near Vision
One eye corrected for near, one for far
LASIK Enhancement
Minor Refractive Errors
Performed years after original LASIK
Cataract Surgery
Cloudy vision in aging eyes
Can include lens implants with vision correction
LASIK Expectations by Age Group
Age Range
Likelihood of Needing Glasses After LASIK
18–39
Low – most achieve 20/20 or better
40–49
Moderate – reading glasses often needed
50+
High – aging lens affects vision clarity
Tips for Maximizing Long-Term Vision After LASIK
Have realistic expectations. LASIK corrects existing vision problems but not future age-related changes.
Choose the right LASIK option. If you’re 40+, ask your surgeon about monovision LASIK for near and far correction.
Protect your eyes. UV exposure and eye strain can impact long-term results.
Attend regular eye exams. Monitor changes and address them early.
Final Word: Will You Need Glasses After LASIK?
For most people, LASIK provides freedom from glasses for distance vision — often lasting years or even decades. However, presbyopia and age-related changes can still require reading glasses or other corrections later in life.
Think of LASIK as a long-term investment in visual freedom — not necessarily a permanent exemption from all eyewear.
Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
National Eye Institute. (2022). Facts About Presbyopia. Retrieved from https://www.nei.nih.gov
Rebenitsch, R. L., & Schallhorn, S. C. (2015). Long-term satisfaction and visual outcomes after LASIK. Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, 41(2), 342–349.
If you’re considering LASIK eye surgery, you likely have one burning question: “Will I see 20/20 after LASIK?” While the short answer is “most people do,” the complete picture is more nuanced. It’s a valid and important question. Let’s look at the realities of LASIK and what you can genuinely expect.
Understanding 20/20 Vision
Before exploring whether laser eye surgery can achieve 20/20 vision, it’s essential to understand what this term means. 20/20 vision refers to the clarity or sharpness of vision, and it’s a measurement used to assess visual acuity. A person with 20/20 vision can see clearly at 20 feet what a person with normal vision should see at that distance. While 20/20 vision is the goal for many patients, it’s important to note that it isn’t always achievable for everyone, and there are various factors that can affect the outcome.
Success Rates and Outcomes
Numerous studies and clinical trials have examined the success rates of laser eye surgery.
LASIK often delivers 20/20 vision or better, with over 90% of patients achieving this level of vision after the procedure.
About 9 out of 10 people (90%) who have LASIK end up with vision between 20/20 and 20/40—without glasses or contact lenses.
More than 90% of people who get LASIK have 20/20 vision or better post-procedure, according to the Refractive Surgery Council, 2017.
In addition, LASIK has an unprecedented 96 % patient satisfaction rate – the highest of any elective procedure. (Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Vol. 42, Issue 8, August 2016, Pages 1224-1234).
It’s important to understand that while 20/20 vision is a common result, some patients may achieve vision slightly worse than 20/20 (such as 20/25 or 20/30), which can still be perfectly functional for most daily tasks. The exact outcome can vary based on the aforementioned factors, and patients should have realistic expectations before undergoing surgery.
Factors That Affect the Outcome
Several factors contribute to the success of laser eye surgery and its ability to achieve 20/20 vision:
Age: Younger patients typically have better outcomes than older patients because their eyes are healthier and more adaptable to the surgical changes.
Refractive error: Those with mild to moderate myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism tend to have better results than individuals with more severe prescriptions.
Corneal thickness and shape: Laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea, so having enough corneal thickness is crucial. Thin or irregular corneas may impact the surgery’s success.
Eye health: People with underlying eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, or dry eye may not be suitable candidates for surgery, or their results could be compromised.
Healing response: Everyone heals differently, and some people may experience complications or less-than-optimal results due to how their bodies respond to the surgery.
According to Dr. Brewer, “If you are capable of seeing 20/20 with your glasses and contact lenses, then you are capable of seeing 20/20 or better after LASIK…”
Dr. Brewer talks about the possibility of achieving 20/20 vision after LASIK
Long-Term Vision Stability and Potential Enhancements
While many patients experience stable vision for years following laser eye surgery, some may experience gradual changes in visual acuity over time. Factors such as aging and hormonal fluctuations can influence long-term vision stability. Enhancement procedures may be necessary to address residual refractive errors or changes in vision. We advocate for regular annual check-ups to monitor vision and address any concerns. We provide detailed information regarding the potential need for enhancement procedures and the factors that influence long-term vision stability.
Benefits and Limitations of Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery offers several benefits, including the potential for clearer vision, freedom from corrective lenses, and a relatively quick recovery period. Some of the specific advantages include:
Reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses: The primary reason most people seek laser eye surgery is to reduce their reliance on glasses or contact lenses. Many patients achieve functional vision without the need for corrective eyewear.
Improved quality of life: For many, the ability to see clearly without glasses or contacts enhances daily activities, such as driving, sports, and even traveling.
Minimal downtime: Compared to traditional eye surgeries, laser eye procedures offer a much faster recovery, with many patients returning to normal activities within a day or two.
However, there are also limitations to consider:
Not everyone is a candidate: Certain conditions such as dry eyes, severe refractive errors, or other health issues may disqualify a person from undergoing surgery.
Risks and complications: While laser eye surgery is generally safe, complications can occur, including dry eyes, glare, halos, or infections. In rare cases, the procedure may not result in optimal vision, and additional treatments may be needed.
Long-term results: While the majority of patients achieve lasting results, some may experience changes in their vision over time due to aging or other factors, such as presbyopia.
LASIK Eye Surgery- An easy 3 step process
What’s Next for Me?
Laser eye surgery offers an effective solution for many individuals seeking to improve their vision. The goal is to reduce the dependence on glasses or contact lenses, and for most patients, the results are highly satisfactory. While achieving 20/20 vision is a common result for many patients, it’s important to understand that each person’s experience may vary. By consulting with a qualified ophthalmologist and setting realistic expectations, you can make an informed decision about whether laser eye surgery is right for you.
Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions.
LASIK Surgery Age Limit: Breaking the Vision Barrier
Imagine bidding farewell to those bothersome glasses or itchy contacts and embracing the world with impeccable vision through LASIK, also known as Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis. The dream of visual freedom is within reach for millions. But one of the most commonly asked questions about LASIK eye surgery is, does my age exclude my eligibility for LASIK? Let’s dive in and debunk common LASIK myths and answer questions.
Age Considerations for Laser Vision Correction
There’s a common misconception – that there’s an official age limit for LASIK. Let’s set the record straight – there isn’t. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, individuals aged 18 and over are eligible for LASIK eye surgery.
Your eyes, unlike fine wine, may not necessarily improve with age. While they mature gracefully, LASIK surgeons recommend or prefer that their patients are between the ages of 18 and up. Below 18, your prescription may change often which is why LASIK surgeons prefer to wait until your prescription stabilizes.
What Qualifies A Person As A Good Candidate For LASIK Eye Surgery?
Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
General health: Certain health conditions may require medications that can slow or prevent healing. LASIK candidates must be in good general health, and should not have certain health problems, including uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune or take any medication that may compromise the immune response.
Nursing/Pregnancy: Candidates should not be pregnant when undergoing the LASIK procedure. Hormones may affect the stability of your prescription, so pregnant women are not eligible to pursue LASIK surgery. Nursing patients can consult with a LASIK specialist to assess their individual circumstances and determine whether the procedure is a suitable option.
Can I Have LASIK Eye Surgery If I’m Over 40?
From the point when their vision stabilizes, most adults start saving more, traveling for work and leisure, and often feel annoyed or tired of using contacts and glasses. This is typically when many choose to undergo LASIK surgery.
Around the age of 40, however, eyesight begins to change and many people start needing reading glasses due to presbyopia. Although LASIK doesn’t correct presbyopia, some opt for Monovision, a type of laser eye surgery that corrects one eye for near vision and the other for distance.
At around 60, eye changes occur once more, increasing the risk of cataracts. While some people reach 70 or 80 without developing cataracts and maintain healthy eyes, they can still be good candidates for laser eye surgery even outside the usual age range for LASIK.
The Verdict
In conclusion, LASIK surgery knows no strict age limits. It’s about understanding your eyes, considering your lifestyle, and making informed choices at any age. Embrace the journey to better vision, and remember – age is just a number when it comes to breaking the vision barrier!
LASIK Eye Surgery: Your Vision Correction FAQs
What is LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis) is a revolutionary vision correction procedure that can free you from the hassles of glasses or contacts. During this bladeless laser eye surgery, an excimer laser gently reshapes the cornea with computer-precision to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Say goodbye to visual aids and hello to crystal-clear natural vision!
Am I a Good Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?
The first step in your LASIK journey is an in-depth screening and evaluation by our experienced eye surgeons. During this comprehensive exam, we’ll assess your specific vision needs and eye health criteria.
Generally, good LASIK candidates meet the following requirements:
-Age 18 or older (with a stable vision prescription for at least 1-2 years)
-No existing eye diseases or conditions like keratoconus or glaucoma
-Sufficient corneal thickness
-Reasonable refractive error limits for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
However, exceptions can sometimes be made depending on individual circumstances. Our laser eye surgery experts will take the time to understand your unique vision goals and medical profile. We’ll then advise if you’re an ideal LASIK candidate or if another vision correction treatment may be better suited for outstanding results.
Don’t settle for blurred vision a day longer! Schedule your LASIK consultation now to discover if you’re a candidate for crystal-clear visual freedom.
Does LASIK Hurt?
The thought of laser eye surgery may seem daunting, but rest assured, LASIK is a painless and comfortable experience. Numbing eye drops are applied to completely anesthetize your eyes before the procedure begins. You may feel a mild pressure sensation around your eye during the laser corneal reshaping, but no pain. Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how smooth and painless their LASIK journey is.
To ensure maximum comfort, your surgeon may also prescribe a mild oral sedative to help you stay relaxed throughout the quick 10-15 minute LASIK procedure.
What is Recovery Like After LASIK Surgery?
After your life-changing LASIK procedure, you can expect some minor irritation or a gritty sensation in your eyes for a few hours as the numbing drops wear off. This mild discomfort is temporary and can be easily managed with over-the-counter eye drops or oral medication prescribed by your surgeon.
Most patients find that a short nap after their laser vision correction allows their eyes to rest and reset. When you awake, you’ll be amazed at your newfound visual clarity! Your surgeon will also provide medicated eye drops to aid in healing and prevent infection during your swift recovery period.
Does Insurance Cover LASIK?
While LASIK is typically considered elective, some insurance plans offer:
Reduced Rates: Many insurers negotiate special rates for members. Call your provider to see if they have discounts for LASIK surgery.
Coverage Exceptions: For specific professions like athletes or military personnel, perfect vision might be job-related, making LASIK a covered expense. Explore your plan details or contact your insurer directly for clarification.
Maximize Your Savings:
Provider Discounts: Many LASIK clinics offer special pricing for AAA members, veterans, or by profession. Ask your chosen provider about available discounts.
Did you know you can potentially save on LASIK eye surgery at The LASIK Vision Institute using pre-tax dollars? Here’s how a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) can help you achieve clearer vision without breaking the bank.
What is an FSA and How Can It Help with LASIK?
An FSA is a workplace benefit account that allows you to set aside pre-tax money for qualified medical expenses, including LASIK surgery. This reduces your overall taxable income and saves you money on the procedure.
2024 FSA Contribution Limits:
The IRS sets annual contribution limits for FSAs. For 2025, the maximum contribution is $3,300 (up from $3,200 in 2024). Some employers may also contribute to your FSA, further increasing your savings.
Using Your FSA for LASIK:
Check Your Eligibility: Confirm with your employer if they offer an FSA and what the contribution limit is for 2025.
Plan Your Contribution: Estimate the cost of LASIK surgery and choose an FSA contribution amount that covers it (or a significant portion).
Schedule Your Consultation: Contact The LASIK Vision Institute to schedule a free consultation. Discuss financing options with the LASIK specialist, including how your FSA can be used.
Key Points to Remember:
FSA funds are typically available at the beginning of the plan year, allowing you to plan for LASIK early.
Some employers offer grace periods or carryover options, letting you use unused funds from the previous year.
If you have questions about your FSA, including grace periods or carryover rules, contact your employer’s HR department.
Ready to See Clearly with LASIK?
Schedule your free consultation at The LASIK Vision Institute today! We can help you determine if LASIK is right for you and explore how your FSA can be used to make it more affordable.
Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
LASIK eye surgery offers potential vision correction benefits, but how long do the results of LASIK last? It’s a common question from patients, and the precise answer depends, in part, on the individual.
The surgery duration itself is brief – approximately 15 minutes per eye. Choosing the right LASIK surgeon, procedure, and laser technology may help in achieving the best results.
Exploring its history, LASIK eye surgery was approved in Canada in the early 1990s and in the United States shortly thereafter, so there is a long track record of data on LASIK results. The results of LASIK are typically long-lasting, but natural changes in the eye over time may lead to the need for additional vision correction treatments or an enhancement procedure.
Vision Correction after LASIK Eye Surgery
While LASIK treats existing vision problems, it does not prevent the natural changes that occur in the eye over time. There may be some cases where patients need additional treatments in the future, or corrective lenses after having LASIK surgery.
Presbyopia, the condition which causes the need for reading glasses for adults in their 40s, LASIK does not address the potential need for reading glasses for patients over 40 years old. Occasionally, the patient chooses a monovision procedure which allows for close-up vision in one eye and distance vision in the other.. So reading glasses may be required, even if the other vision problems addressed in the LASIK procedure are no longer causing problems.
Just as you may have had minor changes in your glasses prescription over time prior to LASIK, you may have slight changes in your vision over time after laser eye surgery. Because of these natural changes, a person may need additional surgery. This is often called an enhancement, or a touch-up procedure.
Some LASIK providers offer enhancements at no charge with a grace period, while others charge for enhancements. It is important to ask your provider for their policy on enhancements, to learn whether there will be any cost to you if an enhancement is needed. Using a highly skilled LASIK surgeon, the latest laser technology, and going to a provider who screens candidates carefully may help reduce the potential need for enhancements.
Listen to Dr. Ryan Brewer talk about the longevity of LASIK.
Eye Health and Annual Eye Exams After LASIK
While LASIK may reduce your reliance on glasses or contact lenses, it’s still important to keep up with annual eye exams with your regular eye doctor after LASIK eye surgery. During your annual eye exam, your doctor will perform a variety of tests to measure your overall eye health, and discuss any treatment options for your current vision health needs. An annual exam also helps your eye doctor keep up with the natural changes that may occur in your eyes over time.
An Actual Laser Eye Surgery Patient
Why are you looking to have treatment?
“I’ve had glasses since I was in fourth grade. I’m ready to get rid of them. My wife has been a big motivation to have the freedom to not have to wear glasses. “
What can you see without your glasses?
“Nothing. Everything is blurry”
Ready to learn more about laser eye surgery, with the help of a knowledgeable, experienced team? Start by scheduling your free consultation at your local The LASIK Vision Institute. You can schedule your free consultation by calling directly or on our website. Your free consultation is the perfect opportunity to ask questions, learn more about financing and payment options, and meet your local The LASIK Vision Institute team.
Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
LASIK is the most well-known laser vision correction procedure, but there are other types of laser eye surgery too. Photo Refractive Keratectomy (PRK) is another type of laser eye surgery procedure. For some people, eye structure can make PRK a more desired option, and may be your doctor’s recommendation if your corneas are too thin to perform LASIK. So, what’s the difference between LASIK vs PRK?
The end goal of any laser eye surgery is to promote better vision. PRK eye surgery was actually developed before LASIK, but both procedures are still in use today. Both PRK and LASIK are focused on reshaping the cornea, which affects how the eye focuses light. The aim of both procedures is to address vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by gently reshaping the cornea with a laser.
The PRK & LASIK Procedure
The big difference between LASIK vs PRK laser eye surgery is how the eye is prepared for surgery. With LASIK, the surgeon creates a hinged flap by making an incision in the cornea. This flap gives the surgeon access to the part of the cornea that needs to be reshaped. Once the procedure is finished, the surgeon will put the flap back in place.
With PRK, there is no flap. Instead, the thin, outermost layer of the cornea, called the epithelial layer, is removed to provide the necessary access to the part of the cornea that the doctor reshapes with the laser. This outer layer regenerates naturally during the healing process.
LASIK vs PRK: Key Differences
LASIK and PRK are two of the most popular vision correction procedures, each offering unique benefits. Understanding the differences can help you make an informed choice.
LASIK involves creating a thin, protective flap on the cornea, then reshaping the underlying tissue with a laser. This method provides quick visual recovery, usually within 1-2 days, and almost immediate improvement in vision. It’s ideal for those with thicker corneas and who want fast, effective results.
PRK, by contrast, does not involve creating a flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea is removed before the tissue is reshaped. While the recovery period is longer (1-2 weeks), PRK eliminates any flap-related complications, making it a safer choice for those with thinner corneas or individuals involved in high-impact sports or activities.
Both procedures effectively correct vision, but the choice depends on factors like corneal thickness, lifestyle, and recovery preferences. While LASIK offers faster visual recovery, PRK may be the safer option for certain patients. Consulting an eye care professional can help determine which procedure is best suited to your specific needs.
The PRK & LASIK Recovery
Healing occurs quickly after LASIK surgery, while PRK takes a little longer to heal. Patients often report more discomfort from having PRK than from having LASIK, but it is temporary, while your eye is healing. While the healing time is different between the two procedures, the expected results over time are the same.
PRK and LASIK are more alike than they are different, but the differences are important. If the incision required to create a LASIK flap isn’t right for your unique needs, PRK may provide another option for laser vision correction. As always, please remember that it is crucial to speak with your LASIK surgeon before making any decision on how to proceed with any laser vision correction procedure.
Schedule your free LASIK consultation today and determine if laser eye surgery is right for you. The LASIK Vision Institute has performed over 1.4 million procedures and offers convenient, nationwide locations!
Schedule A Free LASIK Consultation
Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
“I’m tired of wearing contacts and glasses every day”
When you don’t wear contacts and glasses, what can you see?
“Nothing.”
Ready to learn more about laser eye surgery, with the help of a knowledgeable, experienced team? Start by scheduling your free consultation at your local The LASIK Vision Institute. You can schedule your free consultation by calling directly or on our website. Your free consultation is the perfect opportunity to ask questions, learn more about financing and payment options, and meet your local The LASIK Vision Institute team.
Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
