Risk of Cataracts After LASIK Surgery - What to Know

Understanding the Risk of Cataracts After LASIK Surgery

LASIK eye surgery has become an increasingly popular option for patients looking to correct their vision and reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved that must be carefully considered beforehand.

One potential long-term complication that may arise years after LASIK is an increased chance of developing cataracts. Cataracts cause clouding in the crystalline lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision, faded colors, and sensitivity to light. While cataracts are a natural part of the aging process, data suggests there is an association between LASIK surgery and accelerated cataract formation.

Examining the Research on LASIK and Cataracts

Several studies have found a correlation between LASIK surgery and cataracts later in life:

• A 2009 study followed patients for 10 years after LASIK. It found that by the 10-year mark, 19.5% of LASIK patients had developed cataracts, compared to only 9.9% of patients who did not have the surgery.
• A 2011 study detected cataracts in nearly 28% of eyes that underwent LASIK after 10 years. The rate of cataracts was highest among patients who had the surgery at an older age.
• A 2013 study discovered that LASIK patients were nearly twice as likely to develop cataracts compared to those who wore glasses or contacts. 38% of LASIK patients had cataracts after 16 years.

Based on this data, there appears to be a correlation between LASIK surgery and accelerated formation of cataracts later in life. Scientists theorize this may occur due to long-term effects from the excimer laser used in the procedure.

Identifying Patient Groups at Higher Risk

While any LASIK patient can potentially develop post-operative cataracts, some patients are at an especially high risk level based on their individual profile and medical history. These include:

• Older patients - Several studies found the risk of cataracts increases with patient age at the time of surgery.
• Patients with pre-existing conditions - Those with diabetes, uveitis, high degrees of myopia, and similar conditions may face higher cataract risk following LASIK.
• Patients undergoing enhancement procedures - Patients who have an enhancement or second LASIK procedure have more total laser eye exposure, increasing their risk potential.

Patients in these categories should discuss their personal risk levels with their ophthalmologist. Those at high baseline risk may want to consider alternatives to LASIK for vision correction.

Recommendations for Reducing Post-LASIK Cataract Risk

For those who wish to undergo LASIK, there are some precautions you can take to potentially decrease your risk of developing cataracts down the road:

Choose Your Ophthalmologist Carefully

Select a board-certified ophthalmologist who specializes in LASIK with extensive experience successfully managing patient outcomes long-term. Their expertise can help reduce chances of complications.

Use Newer Excimer Laser Technology

Look for a practice that utilizes the latest excimer lasers, which have improved safety profiles. Newer variable spot scanning lasers in particular help ensure less total laser energy is delivered to the eye during treatment.

Delay Surgery Until You’re Older

Consider waiting until you are over age 40 to undergo LASIK if possible. Having surgery at a younger age appears to increase the long-term risk of cataracts.

Avoid Enhancement Surgeries

Only undergo an enhancement or second treatment if absolutely necessary for medical reasons. Additional exposure to the laser has been linked to higher cataract rates down the road.

What To Do If You Develop Cataracts After LASIK

If you notice vision changes years after your LASIK procedure and are diagnosed with cataracts, don’t panic. Today’s modern cataract surgery is extremely effective and safe in most cases. The procedure involves removing your cloudy natural lens using minimally invasive phacoemulsification techniques and replacing it with a new artificial intraocular lens (IOL) implant.

In the past, patients who developed cataracts after LASIK could not always have their vision fully restored due to corneal issues. But new advancements like corrective IOLs now enable surgeons to calculate precisely the lens power needed for excellent vision post-cataract surgery.

Over 95% of patients enjoy 20/20 vision or better after having cataract removal with an IOL implant. So while cataracts may still occur more frequently in some LASIK patients, successful treatment options are available if needed.

The Key is Making an Informed Decision

LASIK surgery has revolutionized vision correction treatment, providing freedom from glasses and contacts for millions of patients. But it is not without risks, including potential accelerated formation of cataracts later in life.

By understanding your personal risk factors, choosing your surgeon carefully, using the latest technology available, and delaying surgery until necessary, you can help minimize chances of cataract development after LASIK. And if cataracts ultimately do occur, modern removal options offer very good chances of restored vision.

Making an informed decision based on risks vs rewards is key when considering elective laser vision surgery. Discuss your unique situation thoroughly with your ophthalmology team to make the choice that is right for your eyes and expectations when it comes to vision outcomes both short and long-term.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.