LASIK Eye Surgery Success Rate: Why Results Vary for Everyone

LASIK Eye Surgery: A Popular Procedure

LASIK eye surgery is one of the most popular corrective eye procedures after cataracts. It reduces the reliance on glasses in candidates suffering from near-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism. Most people with blurry vision in one eye or both rely on glasses or contact lenses. With LASIK, patients enjoy long-term benefits without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses. The procedure is quick, around 20 minutes per eye, and the recovery is relatively fast! Getting back to work after LASIK is a breeze for many.

LASIK eye surgery targets to correct refractive errors by changing the shape of the cornea. The cornea is the thin flap on the front portion of the eye. Light enters the eye through the cornea. A too-steep, curved, or misshapen cornea will alter the way light can refract over the retina. Ophthalmologists create a thin flap in the outer corneal tissue using microkeratome blades. This will allow the pre-programmed lasers to correct the irregularities in order to achieve normal vision. A smoother and properly curved cornea will focus light properly on the retina, so the candidate does not need glasses or contact lenses for clear eyesight.

Why Consider the Success Rate for LASIK Eye Surgery?

The best part about LASIK eye surgery is that it has fewer side effects. Thanks for the safety and effectiveness! However, no medical procedure is risk-free, and LASIK is no exception. Knowing the chances of achieving success after LASIK is crucial. It indeed helps in weighing the benefits and risks specific to the candidate. Furthermore, being aware of the likelihood of achieving a 20/20 vision will help you make an informed decision. Knowing the procedure, its requirements, and expected results will help you stay prepared. Read our article, “How long does LASIK last?” for complete information on LASIK eye surgery. 

What Is the LASIK Eye Surgery Success Rate?

LASIK is considered one of the most successful surgical procedures in the world. Studies reveal that the patient satisfaction rate after LASIK ranges between 95.3 and 96.3% in myopic and hyperopic LASIK patients. More than a decade of clinical studies were carried out with adequate technological advancements. It's worth mentioning that LASIK is indeed the most commonly performed surgical eye procedure across the world.^[1]

Having known the success rate of LASIK, let’s break down what ‘success’ actually means. Is it achieving a 20/20 vision? Is it eliminating glasses? Understanding these factors helps set realistic expectations if you are considering the procedure.

Understand the “Success of LASIK Eye Surgery”

While LASIK reduces the dependency on glasses and contact lenses, its success does not solely relate to patient satisfaction. One can also relate to LASIK’s success with vision improvement and fewer complications besides patient satisfaction. We briefed on it below:

• Visual acuity outcomes: The visual outcomes after LASIK are usually measured in UCVA (uncorrected visual acuity). This means how well a patient can see without the help of glasses or contact lenses. Studies revealed that 97% of patients achieved a UCVA of 20/40, and 62% of patients achieved a UCVA of 20/20 after LASIK.^[2] 20/20 vision is considered normal vision, and it means a patient can see objects at 20 feet distance the same way as a person with perfect vision can see. 20/40 vision means a person can see at 20 feet to what someone can see clearly at a distance of 40 feet. Patients who achieved 20/40 vision may find it difficult to read small text or see distant objects. They would need glasses or contact lenses. However, this will not interfere with daily functional activities. Furthermore, 20/40 vision is the minimum requirement for driving in many places. 
• Patient satisfaction: Many patients notice a significant improvement in their lifestyle after LASIK. Without glasses or contact lenses, they can carry out daily activities with ease and convenience. Further, recovery after LASIK is simple and quick. Patients are not required to take longer breaks from work like any other medical procedure.   
• Complication rates: LASIK eye surgery side effects are generally minimal and rarely serious. While temporary side effects like dry eyes, glare, halos, starbursts, and light sensitivity can occur, they typically fade over time. Persistent issues, though uncommon, may impact overall satisfaction. However, since most side effects are short-lived, the vast majority of patients enjoy long-term positive results.  

Success After LASIK Eye Surgery and Patient’s Expectations

Success with regard to LASIK isn’t just about better vision or positive outcomes. Some patients may achieve 20/20 vision but still have to deal with the side effects. On the other hand, a few others prioritize the betterment of their lives, even with a 20/40 vision. Pre-surgical counseling is the key here. The success of LASIK is case-dependent, with a mix of clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Candidates who know what to expect after LASIK are likely to be more satisfied than those unprepared for potential consequences. 

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Factors That Influence LASIK Eye Surgery Success Percentage

The following factors influence the success of LASIK eye surgery. 

Patient-Related Factors

The success of LASIK eye surgery depends on the choice of the right candidate. LASIK follows a tailored approach, and ophthalmologists carry out a comprehensive eye examination before planning your treatment. While LASIK offers vision improvement for those on prescription glasses, a few eye or overall health conditions may fuel up the complication rates.

• Refractive errors: Candidates with lower degrees of refractive errors have a higher incidence of successful vision correction with LASIK. However, the greater the refractive power or an unstable prescription, may lower the chances of success. These patients may still require glasses after surgery, or the attained results may not last longer.
• Age: The ideal age group for successful LASIK eye surgery is between 20 and 40. Getting LASIK before 20 isn’t recommended as the candidate's eyesight is still developing, and LASIK results would not last longer. Further, the incidence of age-related presbyopia is greater beyond the age of 40. Candidates may still be required to wear glasses for reading purposes even after getting LASIK eye surgery. So, planning LASIK between 20 and 40 can ensure effectiveness and long-term satisfaction with the results. Having said, 20-40 years is an ideal age group, 40 isn’t an upper age limit. Patients may still choose the procedure based on their overall health condition and eye prescription.  
• Eye health: Pre-existing dry eye symptoms may worsen the post-surgical period for LASIK. Furthermore, adequate corneal thickness is a must. Since LASIK reshapes the cornea, candidates with insufficient corneas are not eligible for the procedure due to the potential risks. Besides, candidates with keratoconus or eye infections cannot expect better results, as LASIK for a bulged or weak cornea may worsen the situation.   
• General health: Diabetics, patients with a weakened immune system, or those with autoimmune diseases cannot expect a safe recovery. Besides delayed LASIK eye surgery recovery time, the chances of infection are quite high, lowering the success rate of LASIK. 
• Post-surgical care: The candidate's ability to adhere to LASIK post-surgical care also influences the treatment success rate. LASIK success chances are quite high for candidates who can absolutely follow the aftercare. Unhygienic practices, rubbing eyes, exposure to a dusty environment, and not wearing protective eyewear can damage the corneal flap or cause infections, fueling LASIK surgery risks.

Technology and LASIK Eye Surgery Facility

Generally speaking, advanced technology and modern facilities enhance the success rate of LASIK eye surgery.

• Modern technology: LASIK being a customized approach, significantly varies with regard to technology among various providers. Advanced methods like wavefront-guided LASIK offer accurate and precise results when compared to traditional bladder LASIK. While the conventional methods use a microkeratome blade, the topography-guided LASIK captures the 3-dimensional structure of the cornea covering the bumps and ridges. The level of accuracy and vision correction are exceptionally high for the advanced methods.  
• State-of-the-art facilities: Modern eye surgical facilities are state-of-the-art equipped. One can expect sterile interiors that reduce infection chances post-LASIK. Further, well-equipped eye surgery facilities are backed up with skilled optometrists for effective diagnosis and eye examination. More importantly, one can expect the safest LASIK eye surgery by approaching a qualified and highly skilled ophthalmologist. They ensure the treatment is performed well, and also can rule out the possibility of underlying eye conditions that may interfere with LASIK success. 

Conditions That Deviate LASIK Success Rate for Astigmatism

While LASIK is a highly successful surgical eye procedure, certain conditions lower the chances of positive outcomes. The following conditions cannot offer 20/20 vision, smoother recovery, or expected levels of patient satisfaction.

• Candidates with dry eye syndrome, irregular or too-thin corneas, eye infections, uncontrolled diabetes, or autoimmune diseases carry potential risk factors. While some of these conditions deteriorate eye health, a few others should expect less-than-ideal results. 
• Patients with severe refractive errors cannot expect 20/20 vision. They will still require glasses, deviating their incidence towards LASIK success.
• Persons with compromised immune systems and those on immune-suppressant doses are at a higher risk of developing a post-surgical infection after LASIK.  

While these conditions may affect the LASIK eye surgery astigmatism success rate, some candiates may attain desired results with an enhancement procedure.

Can LASIK Eye Surgery Be Repeated?

With the advancement of technology and LASIK being a safe procedure, most candidates do not require enhancement surgery. A few would need it in case:^[3] 

• The initial surgery hasn’t offered the desired results. 
• Your vision has significantly changed with higher refractive errors due to the natural aging process.

Enhancement LASIK eye surgery is generally safe, provided you are a qualified candidate. Having a healthy eye and overall health conditions, as well as a thick and adequate cornea, are mandatory considerations for those considering a touch-up LASIK surgery. 

What Are the Risks of Getting LASIK Eye Surgery?

While LASIK eye surgery is generally safe, one can expect some less severe side effects like dry eyes, sensitivity to light appearing as halos, and glare. Note that these side effects subside with time with proper aftercare. Very rarely do patients see vision problems due to corneal flap dislodgment. LASIK eye surgery failure rate and associated vision loss are ideally low, provided a qualified and certified ophthalmologist carries out the surgery. Furthermore, you need to adhere to the right post-surgical care and not rub your eyes. Rubbing eyes potentially dislodges the corneal flap. 

What To Do To Ensure the Success of LASIK Eye Surgery?

Before planning your LASIK eye surgery, follow these crucial steps to maximize your chances of a positive outcome. A perfectly planned surgery offers a smoother journey and effective results. 

Choose a Right Eye Surgeon and Clinic

Opting for a qualified, skilled, and well-experienced ophthalmologist can assure success. Experienced eye surgeons perform the procedures with ease, reducing the risk of surgical errors. They stay updated with the emerging trends in ophthalmological procedures so that you can expect the best possible care. Furthermore, one can expect precision and accuracy by opting for clinics equipped with advanced technology. Relying on state-of-the-art technology for diagnosis and treatment ensures the success of your treatment. 

Undergo a Thorough Pre-Op Evaluation

Candidature significantly impacts the success of LASIK. You will undergo a series of comprehensive eye tests, including the pupil examination, refraction test, visual acuity test, slit lamp test, pachymetry, and aberrometry tests. A comprehensive eye examination before the surgery will rule out possible risks. While this identifies any corneal problems that pose a risk of vision loss, it also rules out any allied medical issues that may interfere with the recovery. Plus, it also enhances safety and improves your likelihood of achieving clear vision.   

Strictly Follow Pre–and Post-Op Surgery Guidelines

Adhering to the guidelines stated by the ophthalmologist before and after LASIK eye surgery improves the chances of success rate. Following presurgery steps, like avoiding contact lenses, will allow the cornea to retain its natural shape without alteration. This not only avoids surgical errors but also leads to more precise surgical measurements and better results. Avoiding rubbing eyes, and usage of makeup and cosmetics, and using eye drops will reduce the chances of severe risks of corneal dislodgement and eye infections. Both these consequences have a serious impact on the vision and compromise the overall outcome. In addition, attending the regular follow-up visits will help the ophthalmologists identify any possible errors early on. Furthermore, this ensures a stable vision on a long-term basis.    

Look for Transparency and Communicate Clearly

Transparency and open communication are key to a safe and successful LASIK experience. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how clearly the clinic explains the procedure, potential risks, expected outcomes, and costs. A trustworthy ophthalmologist will provide honest answers without overpromising results. Be proactive in sharing your complete medical and eye health history, including any previous surgeries, medications, allergies, or chronic conditions. These details help your surgeon assess your eligibility and customize the treatment plan. To make the most of your consultation, consider asking:

• Am I a suitable candidate for LASIK?
• What are the risks or possible complications in my case?
• What results can I realistically expect?
• What kind of technology will be used for the procedure?
• What’s included in the total cost—are follow-up visits, medications, or enhancements covered?
• How should I prepare before and after surgery?

Being informed and vocal about your concerns helps build trust and ensures you're fully prepared for the procedure.

Where Is the Best Place for Getting LASIK Eye Surgery?

When looking for the best place for getting LASIK eye surgery, focus on finding advanced surgical eye centers with board-certified ophthalmologists. The best place for a surgical procedure isn’t about geography. It's more related to quality of care. Prioritize clinics that rely on state-of-the-art technology. The chances of errors are low with advanced diagnosis and treatment. In addition, look for clinics offering transparent pricing and personalized aftercare. While insurance does not cover LASIK eye surgery costs, knowing the complete price breakdown will help you stay informed. Check out the patient reviews, surgeon credentials, and treatment success rates during your research for the best place. 

You may also consider top medical tourism destinations like Turkey, Mexico, Malaysia, or India. Thanks to the favorable currency exchange rates, LASIK costs are reasonably low in these places. You don’t have to doubt the quality of treatment, as some of the best eye facilities in these countries offer the finest services. For instance, the LASIK eye surgery success rate in India is incredibly high. It's one of the top-chosen destinations across the world. Further, Dr. Natalia Hernandez, our partner ophthalmologist in Tijuana, Mexico, is known for her immense experience and patient-centered approach. With years of international experience and hundreds of successful procedures, she offers a high standard of care you can expect when seeking affordable yet top-tier LASIK surgery abroad.

In the hands of an experienced surgeon and with proper pre-and post-operative care, the LASIK eye surgery success rate remains impressively high, often above 95% for achieving 20/40 vision or better. By choosing the right specialist and staying informed, you’re setting yourself up for a clear, lasting vision and a smoother recovery journey.

Looking for the best in vision care? Check out our exclusive list of LASIK eye surgery top 5 surgeons. Sign up with Envoy Health today and get personalized guidance every step of the way because your eyes deserve expert hands!

References 

1. LASIK World Literature Review: Quality of Life and Patient Satisfaction
2. Functional Outcome and Patient Satisfaction after Laser In Situ Keratomileusis for Correction of Myopia and Myopic Astigmatism
3. Recurrent Refractive Error After Myopic Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis – What Could Be The Reason?