Myopia Laser Surgery: Why Did My Vision Change After 16 Years?

Myopia laser surgery, after 16 years, the prescription has returned to approximately -4.50 diopters?

Hello, Doctor: Thank you for taking the time to help clarify my concerns! I wore contact lenses from my first year of college until my second year of graduate school, during which my prescription did not change.
In my second year of graduate school, I underwent laser surgery for my myopia at National Cheng Kung University.
After the surgery, my left eye still had a residual prescription of about -1.00 diopters (before surgery, my left eye was -7.50 and my right eye was -4.50).
However, over the past 3 to 4 years, my left eye has gradually become blurry.
Yesterday, I had my prescription checked, and it showed -4.50 diopters with -1.00 astigmatism in my left eye, and -0.75 diopters with -1.00 astigmatism in my right eye! The fundus examination was normal.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Why has my prescription increased? 2.
If I do not wear glasses, will my prescription continue to increase? 3.
If I need to get glasses, where should I go? 4.
Which specialty in ophthalmology should I consult for an examination? Thank you for your answers, Doctor!

winnie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/15

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Winnie,
1.
An increase in prescription is usually due to changes in corneal refraction.
Of course, if the lens shows signs of aging, it can also affect the prescription.

2.
Whether or not to wear glasses should not make a significant difference.

3.
Please first visit the hospital where you had the laser surgery for a detailed examination to determine the underlying issue before considering getting glasses.

4.
You should consult with a cornea specialist.
In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.

Best regards,
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2016/06/15

More Info

Hello,
Thank you for reaching out with your questions regarding your vision changes after undergoing laser eye surgery. It’s understandable to have concerns about your eyesight, especially after a significant procedure like LASIK. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Why has my prescription increased?
After LASIK surgery, it is not uncommon for some patients to experience changes in their vision over time. Several factors can contribute to this phenomenon. One possibility is that the initial correction may not have been sufficient, leading to residual refractive error. In your case, you mentioned that your left eye had about 100 degrees of residual myopia after surgery. Over time, this could have contributed to a gradual increase in your myopia. Additionally, age-related changes in the eye, such as the natural progression of myopia or the development of presbyopia, can also affect your vision. Furthermore, environmental factors, such as prolonged screen time or inadequate lighting while reading, can exacerbate visual strain and lead to perceived changes in vision.

2. Will my prescription continue to increase if I don’t wear glasses?
If you have a refractive error, not wearing corrective lenses may lead to visual discomfort, but it does not necessarily mean that your prescription will continue to increase. However, if your eyes are straining to focus, this could lead to fatigue and discomfort, which might make it feel like your vision is worsening. It’s important to have regular eye exams to monitor your vision and make adjustments to your prescription as needed.

3. Where should I go to get glasses?
You can get your glasses from an optometrist or an ophthalmologist. An optometrist can perform a comprehensive eye exam, determine your current prescription, and help you select the right lenses and frames. If you have specific concerns about your eye health or if you suspect any complications from your previous surgery, it may be beneficial to see an ophthalmologist, who specializes in medical and surgical eye care.

4. Which department should I visit for an eye exam?
For your situation, you should consider visiting an ophthalmology department, particularly one that specializes in refractive surgery or post-operative care. They can provide a thorough examination of your eyes, assess the health of your cornea and retina, and determine if there are any underlying issues contributing to your vision changes.

In summary, it’s essential to maintain regular check-ups with your eye care provider to monitor your vision and eye health. If you notice any significant changes or discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out for a comprehensive evaluation. Remember, vision can change due to various factors, and timely intervention can help manage these changes effectively.

Best regards, and I hope this information helps clarify your concerns!

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