Have you ever worried about the shortsightedness to return back after getting LASIK (or any kind of refractive surgeries) done?

The short answer is: It’s possible, but it’s rare—and manageable. It’s important to know this isn’t a failure of the surgery—rather, it’s usually the result of changes in the eye over time.

What Causes LASIK Regression?

There are a few reasons why shortsightedness might return after LASIK:

1. Corneal remodeling: The cornea layers (epithelial or stroma) may partially revert toward its original shape as a natural response of healing.

2. Natural Aging of the Eye: Just like our skin and joints, our eyes change as we age. The cornea or lens may change shape slightly. This can cause a subtle decline in visual sharpness after LASIK.

3. Hormonal or Systemic Changes: Pregnancy, diabetes, or certain medications can make eye prescription fluctuate and contribute to regression.

4. Progressive Myopia: For younger patients whose myopia (shortsightedness) wasn’t fully stable before surgery, the natural progression of myopia might continue after LASIK.

If Regression Happens, What Can Be Done?

Enhancement is available and highly effective for most cases of regression. However, it’s subject to residual corneal thickness post-operatively. The surgeon will discuss the options during consultation. An enhancement is a “touch-up” rather than a redo, which is typically faster than the original surgery. However, a refractive surgeon always ensures consistent or stable eye power before the actual procedure is performed.

Who Is Eligible for Enhancement?

• Your vision is poor enough to affect daily activities.
• Your cornea is still thick enough to safely reshape.
• It’s been more than 6 months since your original LASIK, allowing your eyes to stabilize.

**Assessment should be done prior to confirming eligibility.**

Does regression mean LASIK failed?

No. Regression is a known possible outcome. Most patients still experience significant improvement compared to pre-surgery vision, even if a mild prescription returns. If regression happens after LASIK, don’t panic. In most cases, you may still enjoy functional, glasses-free vision; or you may decide to enhance it back to clarity with a simple, safe follow-up procedure. Speak with your surgeon and undergo assessment to determine if an enhancement is the right next step for you.

The refractive surgeons available in OasisEye Specialists include: 

• Dr Khaw Hoon Hoon – Kuala Lumpur
• Dr Wilson Wong Jun Jie – Kuala Lumpur
• Dr Wong Hon Seng – Kuala Lumpur
• Dr Norazah Abdul Rahman – Kuala Lumpur
• Dr Amir Samsudin – Kuala Lumpur, Shah Alam
• Dr Chan Choon Teng – Johor Bahru
• Dr Lee Wen Yee – Penang
• Dr Julian Matius Tagal – Kuching
• Dr Diymitra K Ganasan – Kuala Lumpur, Puchong
• Dr Wanni Goh – Kuala Lumpur, Seremban
• Dr Chan Chin Sern – Setia Indah, Johor Bahru
• Dr Rawindar Singh Ranu A/L Harchand Singh – Puchong