Answered: 5 FAQS About LASIK Eye Surgery in SG
If you have a problem with your eyesight, activities will be much harder to do. You also need to have frequent visits to your ophthalmologist for check-ups.
Hence, it can be a smart choice to consider LASIK if you no longer want to wear eyeglasses. To help you, we answered some common questions about LASIK eye surgery here in Singapore.
What is LASIK eye surgery?
LASIK eye surgery is a procedure where a laser is used to improve the vision of the eyes. It’s done to eliminate short-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism.
Also, LASIK is short for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. This treatment helps in correcting the misshapen cornea or the acting lens of the eyes.
The shape of the cornea determines how focused an image is. Once the cornea is out of shape, the image will be blurry, causing the brain to perceive it as something unclear.
Why do you need LASIK eye surgery?
In most cases, LASIK is done to those aged 40 years old and above, particularly those who suffered from a decline in vision due to age.
However, you may also need to undergo LASIK eye surgery if you experience one of the following:
- Suffer from dry eyes syndrome
- Have extremely thin and irregularly-shaped corneas
- Have eye injury and disease like cataract
- Pregnant or nursing (hormones can cause fluctuating vision)
Keep in mind that not everyone is eligible for this surgery. You are only allowed to undergo this if you are at least 18 years old, have stabilised eye degrees for a year, and in great health condition.
How does LASIK eye surgery work?
There are two steps when it comes to LASIK eye surgery. First, the surface of the cornea is cut to create a flap to access its middle section.
Then, an excimer laser is used to shape the cornea, achieving the perfect vision. You’ll only need topical anaesthetic eye drops for this 15-minute procedure.
The results are immediately evident, improving the vision in no time. It takes a day or two to resume with your normal activities as well.
How much does LASIK eye surgery cost in Singapore?
The cost of LASIK eye surgery in Singapore depends on several factors such as the complexity of the procedure and your choice of healthcare institution.
Generally, this medical procedure is much cheaper in public hospitals compared to private health sectors. In public hospitals, LASIK eye surgery can cost $1,200 to $2,540, excluding other fees like consultation and medication.
On the other hand, private hospitals or clinics offer the surgery for prices ranging from $2,900 to $5,000. The consultation fee also depends on your doctor’s seniority, starting from $100 to $300.
Unfortunately, this surgery is considered an aesthetic procedure, which MediSave can’t cover. In other words, you’ll have to shell out from your own pocket.
What are some misconceptions about LASIK eye surgery?
LASIK has gained popularity in recent years, raising demand for the surgery, as well as some misconceptions about the procedure.
You can’t wear contact lens after LASIK
This is not true, you can actually wear soft contact lenses after the surgery. For those who previously wore them, they’ll be able to do it again without any worries.
You can smell your cornea burning
Doctors use a cool laser, which means there’s no generated heat during the surgery. Although there might be tissue evaporation, the smell is not that noticeable.
LASIK is not individualised
LASIK is exclusively tailored to your eye requirements. It means that everything is customised to your level of correction and needs.