If you are seeking alternatives to wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses, you may be pondering whether LASIK surgery is a suitable option for you. Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) eye surgery in Singapore is categorised as a type of refractive eye surgery that enables a patient to achieve 20/20 vision, which is generally adequate for everyday activities. Let us walk you through what LASIK surgery is, how it is done, and who can benefit from this procedure.
What Is LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK is a well-recognised surgical procedure that uses a laser to treat vision problems caused by refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The goal of LASIK is to correct your refractive error and improve your vision. LASIK eye surgery may reduce your need for eyeglasses or contact lenses, and in most cases, may even allow you to do without them completely.
In the hands of an experienced LASIK surgeon, the entire procedure often takes less than 15 minutes per eye, and both eyes are usually treated during the same session. After the surgery, patients are advised to rest for a short period before being discharged. Vision improvement is often noticed within a day or two, and patients are usually able to resume normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure.
How Is It Done?
Before the surgery, your ophthalmologist will thoroughly examine your eyes to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for LASIK surgery in Singapore. Furthermore, your surgeon will also discuss your expectations and vision needs to ensure the required outcome.
Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how LASIK surgery is performed.
Administering of Anaesthesia/Numbing Eye Drops: Before the procedure begins, numbing eye drops are applied to the eye to minimise patient discomfort.
Creating a Corneal Flap: A thin flap is created on the outer layer of the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) using a femtosecond (infra-red) laser. The surgeon carefully lifts this flap, exposing the underlying corneal tissue.
Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser is used to remove a precise amount of corneal tissue, reshaping the cornea to correct its curvature and focusing ability. The laser operates based on the specific measurements and treatment plan designed for the individual’s refractive error.
Flap Repositioning: After the cornea is reshaped, the surgeon carefully repositions the corneal flap back into its original position. The flap adheres without the need for stitches due to its natural adhesive properties.
Recovery and Healing: The corneal flap begins to heal rapidly, usually within a few hours, due to the eye’s natural healing mechanisms.
Post-Surgery: The patient will be prescribed eye drops to facilitate healing and prevent infection.
Risk Factors
LASIK eye surgery in Singapore has a commendable track record, with complications being very rare and a high level of satisfaction among most patients who undergo the procedure. Some temporary side effects may include dry eyes, temporary vision disturbances (glares or halos), and vision fluctuations during the day. These symptoms will typically dissipate within a month. It is always best to speak to your Singapore LASIK surgeon to weigh the pros and cons of LASIK.
Who Is A Good Candidate for LASIK Surgery?
The outcome of the surgery depends on various factors, including the specifics of your refractive error. As with all medical procedures, your Singapore LASIK surgeon will first assess your eligibility for this procedure. Your eye surgeon will inquire about your eye health in detail.
Individuals with mild to moderate nearsightedness tend to have the most successful outcomes with refractive surgery. Conversely, those with a significant degree of nearsightedness or farsightedness, especially if coupled with astigmatism, may experience less predictable results.
To have LASIK surgery, you need to meet certain requirements, and some of them are:
- You should be 18 years of age or older (ideally, over 21 years old)
- Your eye prescription should not have changed much in the last year
- Your refractive error must be one that can be treated with LASIK
- Your corneas need to be thick enough and healthy, and your overall eye health must be generally good
If you have any of the following eye conditions, you may not be considered a suitable candidate for this procedure.
- An eye disease causing progressive vision deterioration and corneal thinning, like keratoconus
- Eye inflammation
- Advanced glaucoma or cataract
- Previous eye injuries or eyelid disorder
- Dry eyes: It is crucial to note that if you have dry eyes, LASIK surgery may worsen the condition.
In general, laser eye surgery is most suitable for individuals with low and moderate refractive errors and no atypical vision issues.
Advanced Eye Clinic & Surgery for LASIK Surgery in Singapore
The Advanced Eye Clinic & Surgery in Singapore is home to experienced ophthalmologists and well equipped clinic facilities to bring you unparalleled patient care. Our ophthalmologists specialise in refractive surgery which includes LASIK surgery. We employ a range of established diagnostic tools to tailor treatments for each patient, ensuring optimal outcomes and enhanced vision. With a commitment to excellence and patient satisfaction, we are here to help you transform your vision. Call us today for a consultation.