Question: 

I had LASIK surgery 16 years ago. Not surprisingly, my eyesight has slightly worsened. I'm wondering if I am eligible or if it's safe to have another corrective LASIK procedure. I'm a 72-year-old male.

Answer by ophthalmologist Ronald Krueger, MD:

Your vision can change over time, especially if your LASIK surgery was multiple years ago. These changes are normal and often occur whether or not you had LASIK surgery in the first place. 

It is possible to have LASIK surgery a second time. First, you'll need to consult with an experienced refractive surgeon (also called a LASIK surgeon) to determine the nature of the change and other criteria that would qualify for further treatment. 

While the vision-improving effects of LASIK can last a lifetime, all of our eyes change with time, and that change may alter your outcome. Additionally, changes more specific to the LASIK surgery are also possible, and their management can be best addressed by your LASIK surgeon.