LASIK eye surgery has transformed the lives of millions by providing clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, some patients may wonder, “Can LASIK be redone?” The answer is yes, in many cases, LASIK can be enhanced or redone if the initial results require adjustment. At Excel Laser Vision Institute in Los Angeles, Doctor Ferzaad Moosa and his team are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes for their patients. Here’s what you need to know about LASIK enhancements.
Understanding LASIK Enhancements
LASIK enhancements, also known as touch-ups or revisions, are additional LASIK procedures performed to correct any residual refractive error after the initial surgery. While most LASIK patients achieve their desired vision correction with one procedure, a small percentage may need an enhancement due to various factors.
Reasons for Considering a LASIK Enhancement
1. Residual Refractive Error:
– In some cases, the initial LASIK procedure may not fully correct the patient’s vision, leaving a slight residual error. This can result in less-than-perfect vision, which might need a touch-up to achieve optimal results.
2. Regression:
– Although rare, some patients experience regression, where their vision gradually shifts back towards their original prescription. An enhancement can help restore the clarity achieved immediately after the first surgery.
3. Age-Related Vision Changes:
– As patients age, natural changes in vision can occur, such as presbyopia or other refractive shifts. A LASIK enhancement can address these age-related changes to maintain clear vision.
Criteria for LASIK Enhancements
Before deciding on a LASIK enhancement, several factors are evaluated by Doctor Moosa at Excel Laser Vision Institute:
1. Sufficient Corneal Thickness:
– A key requirement for a LASIK enhancement is having enough corneal thickness remaining to safely perform another laser correction. This is assessed through detailed corneal mapping.
2. Stable Vision:
– It’s crucial that the patient’s vision has stabilized before considering an enhancement. Typically, vision should be stable for at least six months after the initial procedure.
3. Overall Eye Health:
– The health of the patient’s eyes is thoroughly evaluated to ensure there are no underlying conditions that could affect the success of the enhancement.
The Enhancement Procedure
A LASIK enhancement is similar to the original LASIK procedure but typically involves less time. The process includes:
1. Preparation:
– Just like the initial surgery, the eye is numbed with anesthetic drops to ensure comfort.
2. Flap Creation or Lifting:
– If the original LASIK flap is still intact and viable, it is lifted. If not, a new flap may be created using advanced femtosecond laser technology.
3. Laser Reshaping:
– The excimer laser is used to make precise adjustments to the cornea, correcting the residual refractive error.
4. Recovery:
– Recovery from an enhancement is usually quicker than the initial LASIK, with most patients experiencing improved vision within a few days.
Conclusion
At Excel Laser Vision Institute in Los Angeles, Doctor Ferzaad Moosa provides comprehensive care to ensure that every LASIK patient achieves their best possible vision. If you’re experiencing less-than-ideal results from your initial LASIK surgery, a LASIK enhancement could be the solution. Schedule a consultation with Doctor Moosa to discuss your vision goals and determine if a LASIK enhancement is right for you.
