Lasik Surgery in Singapore

In general, laser vision correction may be considered for people who do not wish to use glasses or contact lenses for personal, occupational or medical reasons. These are: LASIK, ReLEx SMILE and Advanced Surface Ablation (PRK, LASEK, Epi-LASIK). Laser vision correction can treat Myopia, Hyperopia and Presbyopia or ‘Lao Hua’ when performed with monovision.

The requirements for laser vision correction are:

1. Minimum age of 18 years.
2. Stable myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism.
3. Absence of pre-existing eye conditions such as severe dry eyes, advanced glaucoma and keratoconus.
4. Absence of certain systemic conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes.
5. Regular corneal shape and thickness.
6. Not Pregnant

How is LASIK Surgery Performed?

LASIK surgery in Singapore is performed by creating a very thin, superficial flap in the cornea with a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser. Once the hinged flap is folded back, the surgeon can access the underlying cornea and remove some corneal tissue using an excimer laser. The excimer laser directs an ultraviolet light beam, reshaping the cornea so that light entering the eye focuses more accurately on the retina for improved vision. The flap is then laid back in place after the cornea has been reshaped with laser ablation. After LASIK surgery, the flap is sealed to the cornea beneath.

Benefits of Lasik Surgery in Singapore

With the range of benefits LASIK surgery offers, it continues to be a commonly considered option for vision correction in Singapore. Firstly, LASIK eliminates the need for contact lenses or glasses, providing greater functional convenience for both daily activities and sports. For individuals who rely on visual aids, this can simplify routines and reduce the need for ongoing maintenance.

If the cost of replacing contact lenses or glasses over time is taken into account, LASIK may be considered a more cost-effective option in the long term. As the results are generally long-lasting and expected to be permanent, many patients view it as a one-time procedure that reduces recurring expenses.

In addition, the recovery process is relatively quick. Most patients are able to return to their usual activities within a day or two, depending on their work environment. While results may vary, many individuals experience clearer vision after the initial recovery period.

How To Prepare for LASIK Surgery in Singapore

Pre-LASIK Surgery

Preparing for LASIK surgery in Singapore involves several essential steps. First, schedule a comprehensive eye examination with a qualified ophthalmologist to assess your suitability for the procedure. During this visit, discuss your medical history, current medications, and lifestyle habits. The eye doctor will perform a series of tests to measure the thickness and curvature of your cornea, as well as your refractive errors.

Follow any pre-surgery instructions provided by your LASIK surgeon, which may include avoiding contact lenses for a specific period before the surgery. On the day of the surgery, arrange for someone to drive you home, as your vision might be temporarily blurry immediately after the procedure.

LASIK Surgery

LASIK surgery is a relatively quick procedure. Before the surgery, your eye will be numbed with eye drops to help reduce discomfort during the process. The surgeon will use a laser to create a thin flap on the cornea, which is then gently lifted. The corneal tissue is reshaped based on your specific refractive error before the flap is repositioned. The entire process typically takes around 15 minutes for both eyes.

After the procedure, it is common for vision to be blurry initially. Visual clarity typically begins to improve within 24 to 48 hours, with gradual stabilisation over the following weeks. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or a burning sensation shortly after surgery, which usually settles within a short period. Your surgeon will provide post-operative care instructions, including the use of prescribed eye drops and scheduled follow-up visits.

Post-LASIK Surgery

After LASIK surgery, it is generally advised to rest your eyes for the first one to two days, as vision may be temporarily blurry during this period. While there is no strict requirement to limit screen time, many patients may find it uncomfortable to engage in prolonged visual tasks immediately after the procedure.

Patients should avoid rubbing their eyes and follow the prescribed medication schedule to support healing and reduce the risk of infection. Protective eyewear may be recommended, particularly during sleep, to prevent accidental contact with the eyes.

Follow-up appointments are important to monitor recovery and ensure that the eyes are healing as expected. Most patients can return to work and resume normal activities within a few days, although individual recovery timelines may vary. Over the next few weeks, vision continues to stabilise as part of the healing process.

LASIK or ReLEx SMILE?

ReLEx SMILE (Refractive Lenticule Extraction – Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive, flapless laser vision correction procedure that is FDA-approved and often considered by individuals with active lifestyles. ReLEx SMILE in Singapore allows certain benefits of LASIK to be achieved through a less invasive approach. The procedure works by creating and removing a small piece of corneal tissue, known as a lenticule, to reshape the cornea. Unlike LASIK surgery, which involves creating a larger corneal flap, the lenticule is extracted through a micro-incision of approximately 2mm. This approach is associated with a more comfortable healing process and avoids flap-related complications such as dislodgement, wrinkles, inflammation, or dry eye symptoms.

As eye conditions and visual needs vary from person to person, consultation with an eye specialist in Singapore is essential before proceeding with any form of eye surgery. A comprehensive eye assessment helps determine whether LASIK surgery or ReLEx SMILE is more suitable based on individual eye health and lifestyle considerations.

Laser vision correction can address a range of refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. In some cases, presbyopia, commonly referred to as “lao hua”, may also be managed using monovision techniques, depending on suitability.

What is the Cost of Lasik Surgery in Singapore?

The cost of LASIK surgery in Singapore is influenced by several factors. Understanding how clinics typically structure their pricing can help individuals make informed decisions when considering their options.

Financing Options:

LASIK surgery in Singapore can be covered by Medisave under specific conditions. This includes cases of anisometropia, where there is a significant difference of more than 3 dioptres in the “spherical equivalent” between the two eyes. Additionally, the procedure is covered if it is used to correct refractive errors resulting from previous eye surgery, such as cataract surgery. For added convenience, Nova Eye Centre offers instalment plans for DBS credit cardholders, providing 6 or 12 months of interest-free payments.

Average LASIK Surgery Cost in Singapore

The cost of LASIK surgery in Singapore varies among clinics, and the average expense typically falls within the range of $2,980 to $4,500. It’s essential for prospective patients to inquire about the breakdown of costs at their chosen clinic, as this can include pre-operative assessments, the surgery itself, and post-operative care.

Factors Affecting the Cost of LASIK:

• Clinic Reputation and Expertise: Established and reputable clinics with experienced surgeons may charge higher fees due to their track record of successful procedures.
• Technology and Equipment: Technologies and equipment used during LASIK surgery can impact costs. Clinics offering the latest technology may have higher fees.
• Surgeon’s Fee: The surgeon’s expertise and experience play a significant role in the cost. 
• Pre-Operative Assessments: Some clinics include comprehensive pre-operative assessments in the overall cost, ensuring that patients are thoroughly evaluated for the procedure.
• Post-Operative Care: The cost may also encompass follow-up visits and post-operative care, contributing to the overall quality of service.

Get in touch with our team at Nova Eye Centre to obtain detailed information about costs and associated services.

What Are the Risks Associated With Laser Vision Correction & Surgery?

Laser vision correction can reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses, but, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. Outcomes may vary depending on the individual’s eye health and the type of procedure performed.

One rare but serious complication is corneal ectasia, where the cornea becomes weakened and begins to bulge, leading to visual changes. This risk is higher in people with thin or irregular corneas, which is why thorough screening is essential before surgery.

Here’s a closer look at the risks associated with the different techniques.

Bladeless LASIK (Femtosecond LASIK)

• Bladeless LASIK utilises a femtosecond laser to create a corneal flap, eliminating the need for a blade. While this method avoids some issues seen with mechanical tools, complications related to the flap can still occur. These include dislocation, folds, or incomplete creation of the flap.
• Dry eye symptoms may develop after LASIK surgery, typically in the first few weeks. In some cases, these symptoms may take longer to improve.
• There is also the possibility of undercorrection or overcorrection of vision. This might lead to the continued use of glasses or contact lenses or require an additional procedure.

ReLEx SMILE

• ReLEx SMILE involves a small incision in the cornea without the need to create a flap. As a result, there tends to be less disruption to the surface nerves, and the chance of developing dry eye symptoms is generally lower compared to other procedures.
• During the early recovery period, some individuals may notice visual effects such as glare, halos, or reduced contrast in dim light. These usually improve with time.

Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA)

• ASA involves removing the outermost layer of the cornea before applying the laser treatment. This can lead to more discomfort in the first few days after surgery and typically involves a longer recovery period compared to LASIK or SMILE.
• Dry eye symptoms are more commonly reported after ASA, particularly in the short term, due to wider exposure of the corneal surface.
• Because the epithelium is removed, there is a slightly higher chance of surface infection during the healing process.

Corneal crosslinking (Xtra)

• Corneal crosslinking is a procedure used to strengthen the corneal structure. It is sometimes performed in conjunction with laser vision correction in patients with thinner corneas to help reduce the risk of corneal ectasia developing after surgery.
• Although rare, there is a risk of developing an infection following corneal crosslinking. This risk can be mitigated by the use of antibiotics before and after the procedure, but it’s still essential to monitor for signs of infection such as increased pain, redness, or discharge from the eye.
• Some patients may experience corneal haze, which is a cloudy or blurry appearance of the cornea. This typically resolves over time but may affect vision temporarily.
• In rare cases, corneal ulceration may occur as a result of the procedure. This is characterised by an open sore on the cornea and requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.

What Is the Best Laser Vision Correction Option for Me?

Before seeking treatment, we recommend consulting an eye specialist. The eye doctor will conduct an eye evaluation to determine which procedure is most suitable for you.

Generally, the ideal treatment method will depend on the following factors:

• Corneal thickness and shape – If your corneal is quite thin, the eye doctor may recommend ASA.
• Degree of short-sightedness – If you have mild short-sightedness, ASA may emerge as the optimal treatment choice.
• Degree of astigmatism – If you have a severe case of astigmatism, LASIK surgery may be the most suitable treatment option.
• Lifestyle and occupation – If you are into contact sports, you may consider a flapless procedure, like epi-LASIK or ReLEx SMILE, to avoid accidental injury to the eye which may affect the corneal flap.

What are the Side Effects of Laser Vision Correction Surgery?

Patients undergoing laser vision correction surgery may experience temporary side effects over the following days or weeks after treatment:

• Corneal flap complications and infections (very rare with today’s laser technology)
• Dry eyes
• Glares
• Haloes
• Mild vision fluctuation

Patients may also encounter a tiny probability of under or over-correction of eyesight power (less than 5% of cases). However, those with resulting prescriptions of +/-0.75 or more must undergo enhancement surgery 3 months after their procedure or when their refractive error has stabilised to correct the issue. 

Please note that the side effects associated with these procedures may vary depending on individual factors such as corneal thickness, refractive error, and overall eye health.

Before undergoing any type of laser vision correction surgery, it’s essential to consult an eye specialist to assess candidacy, discuss potential side effects, and determine the most suitable treatment option based on individual needs and expectations.