LASIK or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis has become one of the most common treatments for a variety of eye complaints, from myopia to astigmatism. It’s also considered one of the most successful eye health procedures, with studies showing 99.5% of patients achieving better than 6/12 vision after it.

But like any other surgery, LASIK has its risks. There are also questions about its long-term effects on the eyes. Today, we will answer one of those questions, namely if LASIK can cause cataracts to develop.

What is LASIK surgery?

Before we talk about the LASIK risk of cataracts, what does LASIK entail? One of our previous articles explains it and its options in detail, but in brief, the procedure involves a reshaping of the cornea.

Essentially, the reshaping of the cornea functions in much the same way prescription glasses do. The new shape is designed specifically to correct the patient’s vision problems.

What are cataracts?

Cataract is one of the most common eye condition. Often related to age, they are generally indicated by a cloudiness in the lens, causing blurry vision.

Note the words “often related to age”. While most people think cataracts affect only the elderly, the truth is that cataracts can happen even to younger people. Diabetics are more likely than others to develop cataracts even in youth, for instance, and medications like steroids can increase the chances of cataract development.

Exploring the LASIK-Cataract Connection

So, what is the LASIK risk of cataracts? Let us begin by answering a related question first: can cataracts develop after LASIK?

The simple answer to that is yes. LASIK only changes the shape of the cornea, after all. The lens in the eye will continue to undergo the changes like all other body parts do – that is, it will continue to age, and this causes it to become a cataract.

Does LASIK actually lead to cataracts? The answer is no. As we stated in an earlier article, there are no studies confirming that LASIK leads to cataract development, or not yet.

It’s also worth noting that no significant difference exists between the cataract surgery given to people who have had LASIK and those who have not. Perhaps the only distinction worth noting is that those who received LASIK to treat short-sightedness usually have flatter corneas than those who did not.

Learn more about your options for both LASIK and cataract treatment

It’s perfectly normal to have concerns about the risk and potential side effects of treatments you’re considering. If you came to this article in search of answers regarding LASIK and its effects on your eyes, you may want to talk to an eye health professional to learn more.

This can help you make more educated, data-driven decisions about your own eye health. To that end, simply call us to enquire or book an appointment for a pre-LASIK assessment today.

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