Presbyopia is the age-related loss of near focusing ability that affects virtually everyone after age 40. Understanding how LASIK interacts with presbyopia is important for setting the right expectations.
What Is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia occurs when the natural crystalline lens inside your eye loses its flexibility and can no longer change shape to focus on near objects. This is a normal, universal ageing process unrelated to whether you have had LASIK.
Can LASIK Treat Presbyopia?
Standard LASIK does not treat presbyopia because it corrects corneal shape — not the lens. However, specialised approaches exist:
- Monovision LASIK: One eye corrected for distance, the other for near. Most patients adapt well; a trial with contact lenses before surgery is recommended
- PRESBYOND Laser Blended Vision: An advanced monovision technique that creates a wider focus range
- Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): Replacing the natural lens with a premium multifocal IOL — addresses both presbyopia and any refractive error; also eliminates future cataract risk
Will I Need Reading Glasses After LASIK?
If you are under 40: probably not for many years. If you are over 40: LASIK will give you excellent distance vision, but you are likely to still need reading glasses for near work unless monovision is chosen.