How Long Do LASIK Results Last?

Short answer: for most patients, LASIK results last many years, often decades. Once your cornea is reshaped, that correction is permanent. What can change over time is your eye itself as it naturally ages.

At Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun in Knoxville, we’ve helped thousands of East Tennesseans enjoy life with less dependence on glasses or contacts. Here’s what to know about LASIK longevity, what’s normal with aging, and when touch-ups make sense.

The Longevity of LASIK

Permanent corneal reshaping: LASIK uses a laser to gently reshape the cornea so light focuses properly on the retina. That change doesn’t “wear off.”
Lasting vision freedom: Most people enjoy many years – often decades – of clear, glasses-free distance vision after LASIK.
Stable prescriptions help: If your eyeglass/contact prescription was stable before surgery (a common requirement), long-term results are typically more predictable.

Will I Need Glasses Again After LASIK?

Maybe – but not because LASIK stopped working.

Around our 40s–50s, the eye’s internal lens stiffens. That makes near work (phone, menus) harder. LASIK doesn’t prevent this because it happens inside the eye, not on the cornea. Many people who had LASIK for distance eventually use reading glasses for close-up tasks.

LASIK vs. Natural Vision Changes

Think of LASIK as fixing your current prescription. It doesn’t stop normal aging of the eyes. Over time, it’s common to develop:

Presbyopia (reading vision changes)
Cataracts (clouding of the natural lens) later in life
Minor shifts in prescription for some people

LASIK doesn’t cause these conditions, and most patients still enjoy long-term freedom from glasses or contacts for distance.

How We Help You Plan for the Long Term

At your consultation with Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun:

We confirm your prescription stability and corneal health.
We discuss options like monovision (one eye set for distance, the other for near) if you want to reduce dependence on reading glasses.
You’ll get a personalized plan that fits your work, hobbies, and goals.

Who’s a Good Candidate for LASIK?

You may be a candidate if you:

Are 18+ with a stable prescription for at least a year
Have healthy eyes and sufficient corneal thickness
Are not pregnant or nursing
Have realistic expectations about aging-related changes

Not sure where you stand? Our quick self-evaluation makes it easy to start.

Ready to See What’s Possible?

Take our LASIK self-evaluation or request a free consultation with Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun in Knoxville. Our experienced LASIK surgeons will answer your questions, check your candidacy, and map out a plan for crisp, confident vision.

FAQs: LASIK Longevity

Does LASIK wear off?
No. The corneal reshaping is permanent. What can change is your eye as it ages (like presbyopia), which may mean reading glasses later.

How long do results last?
Many patients enjoy decades of excellent distance vision.

Will I still get presbyopia?
Yes. Presbyopia is a normal aging change inside the lens of the eye and happens whether or not you’ve had LASIK.

What if my vision changes years later?
Come see us at Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun. We’ll check your eyes and discuss options.

Is LASIK safe if I’m over 40?
It depends on several factors. LASIK over 40 may not be the best option for your eyes. We’ll also discuss strategies (like RLE) to help with reading vision.