Laser eye procedures are commonly used to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Among these options, LASIK surgery is often considered by individuals who wish to reduce their reliance on glasses or contact lenses. The procedure works by reshaping the cornea to help light focus more accurately on the retina, supporting clearer vision.
While this option may appeal to those seeking a longer-term alternative to corrective eyewear, it is not suitable for everyone. Factors such as eye health, prescription stability, lifestyle, and individual expectations all play an important role in determining suitability. Careful assessment and discussion with an eye specialist are essential before making a decision involving vision correction.
How is LASIK Surgery Performed?
Before a LASIK surgery procedure, detailed measurements and an assessment of your eye health will be conducted. During the surgery, anaesthetic eye drops will be used, and your eyelids will be held open by a lid speculum. After which, either a blade device (mechanical microkeratome) or a laser device (laser keratome) is used to create a thin flap in your cornea tissue. This flap is peeled back and another laser reshapes your cornea.
Reshaping the cornea corrects the refraction of light that helps you see clearly without optical aids. When light is refracted at an angle that allows it to focus precisely on the retina, myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism can be corrected without the need for glasses or contacts. After LASIK, the flap is smoothened over the reshaped cornea and left to reattach, healing in place.
What to Expect After LASIK Surgery
Right after the LASIK, you may feel itching, discomfort or dryness in your eye. Your eye specialist will prescribe you with eye drops to prevent infections or inflammations. It is crucial that you do not rub your eyes during the recovery process as it can dislodge the flap, which may cause you to require further treatment. You may also experience sensitivity to light, glare and halos surrounding lights and blurry or hazy vision. These symptoms should subside after a few days and it is highly recommended to take a few days of work and rest during this recovery period.
Follow up appointments to your eye specialist clinic is essential as it allows your eye specialist to keep up with your progress. Should any issues be detected, they can be addressed quickly to avoid further complications. Depending on the individual, your eye specialist may recommend or discourage certain activities such as avoiding strenuous contact sports over a period of time. Always follow the instructions given to you by your eye specialist and use only the products prescribed for a smooth recovery. Should you experience severe pain or if your symptoms are taking a turn for the worse, do contact your eye specialist immediately.
Eligibility
In general, individuals are required to be at least 18 years of age to be considered for LASIK surgery in Singapore. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding are usually advised to postpone treatment, as hormonal changes during this period may affect vision stability.
Suitability also depends on whether vision has remained stable and prescriptions have not changed significantly over time. A comprehensive eye evaluation is necessary to assess overall eye health and determine eligibility. Consulting an eye specialist allows for personalised advice based on your condition and helps ensure that any decision made is appropriate for your visual needs.
With a better understanding of LASIK surgery and what it entails, you can make a more well-informed decision on whether it is the suitable choice for you. Manage your expectations and take the time to research and consider your preferences and risk tolerance. After all, it is a long-term, life-changing investment.
Still unsure of whether you should undergo LASIK surgery? Talk to our eye doctors at our eye specialist clinic in Singapore! We are here to answer any of your eye-related queries from the LASIK surgery cost in Singapore to alternate treatment options. Contact us today for more information!