Will You Still Need Contacts After LASIK Eye Surgery?
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Almost anyone can benefit from having near-perfect vision. When you do not have to deal with the burden of contact lenses or glasses, you can enjoy participating in your favorite activities without worry. This is why many of our patients at Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley (OAV) choose to undergo vision correction surgery.
LASIK is one of the most popular and well-known names in laser vision procedures. While it can significantly reduce your dependence on visual aids, like contacts, there is still a chance you will need them after surgery. To learn the details of LASIK surgery in Los Angeles, CA, contact the professionals at OAV.
About vision correction surgery
LASIK addresses common refractive errors, like nearsightedness and farsightedness, by reshaping the cornea of the eye. When the cornea is misshapen, light hits differently onto the retina, so images appear distorted or blurry. You may have trouble reading or seeing images at a certain distance. LASIK is a simple outpatient surgery that can improve your vision in just a short amount of time. While you will receive detailed aftercare instructions to prevent complications, most people return to normal routines almost right away.
Can you wear contacts after LASIK?
Some activities should be avoided almost immediately after surgery, such as swimming and high-impact sports. So, can you wear contacts after LASIK? Not right away. It is important to heal completely before putting anything in your eyes. The professionals at OAV can schedule a follow-up appointment and let you know when it is appropriate to wear contacts again.
Even though your vision is greatly improved by laser vision surgery, you may not achieve perfect eyesight. This depends on your original refractive error and the success of your surgery. We are happy to report that many patients do not need contact lenses after getting LASIK. However, you may still need or want contacts when performing certain tasks, like reading or driving.
LASIK does not prevent presbyopia
It is also important to note that LASIK surgery in Los Angeles does not necessarily prevent age-related farsightedness, also called presbyopia. Presbyopia occurs when the lens of the eye becomes stiff and rigid over time, reducing our ability to focus on near objects. People with presbyopia often have trouble reading restaurant menus or hold their phones at arm’s length. If you are age 40 or older, our ophthalmologists can have a detailed discussion about managing presbyopia and whether LASIK can benefit your vision.
Continue to attend eye exams
In addition to presbyopia, there are other factors that change your vision over time. For example, hormonal fluctuations can also impact your eyesight. So, if you have undergone LASIK vision correction surgery and become pregnant, you may require contacts or eyeglasses to see. Whether you get LASIK or not, patients should still visit their eye doctor each year for a comprehensive evaluation. Our clinic can monitor your eye health, help you prevent eye diseases, and make recommendations as needed.
Learn about laser vision surgery
Do you still have questions about LASIK? Speak with one of the experienced ophthalmologists at Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley. Our goal is to make sure you have healthy vision for life. During your appointment, we can perform an eligibility screening and let you know whether you might still need contact lenses or glasses after LASIK surgery in Los Angeles, CA. Our team will also recommend the best laser vision surgery for your needs.