ASG Eye Hospital

What Happens 20 Years After LASIK? | Reading Glasses & Cataracts

Asg Eye hospital
May 17, 2026 | 38

What Happens 20 Years After LASIK? Reading Glasses & Cataracts Explained

One of the most common questions people ask is, "Will my LASIK results last forever?" Or, "Will I need reading glasses or cataract surgery years after LASIK?"

In this video, we'll explain what really happens 20 years after LASIK and separate the effects of natural ageing from the results of laser vision correction.

Is LASIK Permanent?

Yes. LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The corneal tissue removed during the procedure does not grow back.

However, LASIK does not stop the natural ageing process of the eye. Over time, other parts of the eye continue to change, even though the corneal correction remains permanent.

Will You Need Reading Glasses?

Possibly, yes.

Around the age of 40 to 45, almost everyone develops presbyopia, a natural age-related condition in which the eye's natural lens becomes less flexible.

As a result, you may find it difficult to read small print, use your mobile phone, or perform close-up tasks without reading glasses.

This happens whether you've had LASIK or not. It is not a sign that your LASIK has failed.

Can Cataracts Develop After LASIK?

Yes.

LASIK does not prevent cataracts.

A cataract develops when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy with age. Since LASIK reshapes the cornea—not the natural lens—you can still develop cataracts later in life.

The good news is that cataract surgery can usually be performed safely in patients who have previously undergone LASIK. Your eye surgeon may simply need additional measurements to calculate the most appropriate intraocular lens (IOL).

Can Vision Change Again After LASIK?

For most patients, distance vision remains stable for many years.

However, some people may experience:

  • Mild prescription changes
  • Dry eye symptoms
  • Age-related presbyopia
  • Cataracts later in life

These changes are usually related to the natural ageing of the eye rather than the LASIK procedure itself.

Will You Need Another LASIK Procedure?

Most patients never require another LASIK treatment.

In selected cases, where there is a small residual or recurrent refractive error and the cornea remains healthy, an enhancement procedure may be considered after a detailed evaluation by your ophthalmologist.

How Can You Protect Your Vision Long-Term?

Even after successful LASIK, it's important to:

  • Have regular comprehensive eye examinations.
  • Protect your eyes from excessive UV exposure.
  • Control diabetes and blood pressure.
  • Eat a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and antioxidants.
  • Use lubricating eye drops if recommended.
  • Seek medical advice if you notice sudden changes in vision.

Routine eye care helps detect age-related eye conditions early and keeps your vision healthy.

Final Thoughts

LASIK provides long-lasting correction for refractive errors, but it cannot prevent natural age-related changes such as presbyopia or cataracts. Needing reading glasses after 40 or developing cataracts later in life is a normal part of ageing—not a failure of LASIK.

If you've had LASIK in the past or are considering laser vision correction, schedule a comprehensive eye examination at ASG Eye Hospital. Our experienced ophthalmologists can evaluate your eye health, answer your questions, and recommend the best treatment for every stage of life.

Stay connected with ASG Eye Hospital for more expert videos on LASIK, Contoura Vision, SMILE, cataract surgery, glaucoma, retina care, and comprehensive eye health.

Doctor's Name: Dr. Devika

Overview

Job Title: Consultant Ophthalmologist

Location: Pan India
Job Category: Medical Healthcare

Work Employment:  Full time

What you work:

  • Diagnose and treat patients with a focus on Ophthalmologist.
  • Collaborate with senior doctors and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ensure patient-centric care and follow clinical protocols.
  • Contribute to research, training, or hospital initiatives (if applicable).

Mandatory skills:

  • Relevant medical degree / certification.
  • Strong knowledge of ophthalmology practices / healthcare protocols.
  • Excellent communication and patient-handling skills.
  • Ability to work in fast-paced healthcare environments.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience: 3 to 6 years of experience
  • Prior experience in eye care / multi-speciality hospitals.
  • Fellowship or advanced training in Ophthalmologist.
  • Familiarity with advanced diagnostic tools and surgical techniques.
  • Passion for innovation, patient care, and continuous learning.

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Overview

Job Title: Optometrist

Location: Amritsar, Punjab 

Job Category: Optometry

Work Employment:  Full time

What you work:

  • Conduct comprehensive eye examinations and vision assessments for patients of all ages.
  • Prescribe and fit spectacles, contact lenses, and low-vision aids.
  • Perform diagnostic tests including refraction, tonometry, perimetry, and OCT imaging.
  • Support consultant ophthalmologists in pre-operative and post-operative patient workups.
  • Counsel patients on eye care, lens hygiene, and follow-up schedules.
  • Maintain accurate clinical records and adhere to hospital protocols.

Mandatory skills:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optometry (B.Optom / M.Optom) from a recognised institution.
  • Valid registration with the relevant state or national optometry council.
  • Proficiency in refraction, slit-lamp examination, and contact lens fitting.
  • Working knowledge of autorefractors, tonometers, fundus cameras, and OCT equipment.
  • Strong communication skills in English, Hindi, and Punjabi.
  • Ability to manage high patient volumes in a fast-paced clinical setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience: 1 to 5 years of clinical optometry experience.
  • Prior experience in an eye care or multi-speciality hospital in Punjab.
  • Exposure to paediatric optometry, binocular vision, or low-vision rehabilitation.
  • Familiarity with advanced diagnostic imaging and dry-eye management.
  • Passion for patient care, community eye-health camps, and continuous learning.

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Overview

Job Title: Optical In-charge 

Location: Panjim, Goa / Mumbai-Worli (Lower Parel) 

Job Category: Optical

Work Employment:  Full time

What you work:

  • Manage day-to-day operations of the optical outlet, including sales, dispensing, and inventory.
  • Guide customers on frame selection, lens options, and coatings based on their prescription and lifestyle.
  • Take accurate frame measurements and ensure precise fitting, adjustments, and after-sales service.
  • Drive optical sales targets and monitor daily, weekly, and monthly business performance.
  • Maintain optimum stock levels, coordinate with vendors, and control shrinkage through periodic audits.
  • Supervise and train optical staff on product knowledge, dispensing standards, and customer service.
  • Coordinate with optometrists and consultants to ensure smooth prescription-to-delivery flow.
  • Ensure visual merchandising, display hygiene, and adherence to brand and hospital standards.

Mandatory skills:

  • Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Optometry (D.Optom / B.Optom) or equivalent optical dispensing qualification.
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in optical supervisory or in-charge role.
  • Sound knowledge of lens types, coatings, frame materials, and dispensing principles.
  • Hands-on experience with edging, fitting, and basic optical workshop equipment.
  • Proven ability to achieve sales targets and manage inventory and billing systems.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills in English, Hindi, and Konkani or Marathi.
  • Working knowledge of POS / retail software and MS Office.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience: 3 to 7 years in optical retail or an eye care hospital optical division.
  • Prior experience managing an optical outlet in Goa or the western region.
  • Exposure to premium and progressive lens brands and specialty eyewear.
  • Familiarity with contact lens dispensing and after-care support.
  • Team leadership, customer relationship management, and continuous learning mindset.

Apply For This Positions

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Overview

Job Title: Optometrist

Location: Pan India 

 

Job Category: Optometry

Work Employment:  Full time

What you work:

  • Conduct comprehensive eye examinations and vision assessments for patients of all ages.
  • Prescribe and fit spectacles, contact lenses, and low-vision aids.
  • Perform diagnostic tests including refraction, tonometry, perimetry, and OCT imaging.
  • Support consultant ophthalmologists in pre-operative and post-operative patient workups.
  • Counsel patients on eye care, lens hygiene, and follow-up schedules.
  • Maintain accurate clinical records and adhere to hospital protocols.

Mandatory skills:

  • Diploma / Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optometry (D.Optom / B.Optom / M.Optom) from a recognised institution.
  • Valid registration with the relevant state or national optometry council.
  • Proficiency in refraction, slit-lamp examination, and contact lens fitting.
  • Working knowledge of autorefractors, tonometers, fundus cameras, and OCT equipment.
  • Ability to manage high patient volumes in a fast-paced clinical setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience: 1 to 5 years of clinical optometry experience.
  • Exposure to paediatric optometry, binocular vision, or low-vision rehabilitation.
  • Passion for patient care, community eye-health camps, and continuous learning.

Apply For This Positions

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