Top LASIK questions to answers

Lasik is a corrective eye surgery that is used to treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Lasik surgery reshapes the cornea to enable light entering the eyes to be properly focused onto the retina for clearer vision.

1. How much does LASIK usually cost in Singapore?

The average cost of LASIK in Singapore ranges from $3,000 to $4,500 for both eyes. Private clinics will be pricier as compared to public hospitals. The cost includes the pre-surgery evaluation and consultation, surgery fees, and follow up review sessions. The medications and additional follow-ups are usually a separate cost.

2. What’s the minimum age for LASIK in Singapore?

The minimum age to undergo Lasik surgery in Singapore would be 18 years old. For those under the age of 18, the surgery might not be as effective due to their vision still being unstable. There might also be an increased risk of irreversible eye damage in younger patients. Therefore, it is best to wait till you’re 18.

3. Is it worth it to do LASIK when you are above 50 years old?

There is no maximum age to do Lasik. There is an increasing amount of people over the age of 50 gravitating towards Lasik surgery. As long as you have healthy eyes, you will still be a good candidate for the surgery.

4. How do I find a good LASIK doctor in Singapore?

Always start by asking around from friends and family members. Friends and family members who have gone through the Lasik procedure would be able to recommend and share their experience with you. This would give you a better understanding of choosing the right ophthalmologist for you. The next step would be to research the surgeon’s credentials and experiences. It is very important as you are putting the results of your vision in the hands of the surgeon. The last step would be to have consultations with the surgeon and ask them questions about the procedure. If you feel comfortable and safe with the surgeon, you can proceed with the surgery.

5. Can LASIK cause dry eyes?

Yes, Lasik can cause dry eyes. However, there is no need to worry as it can be easily resolved. After Lasik surgery, 95% of patients experience dry eyes. This is because, during the surgery, the surgeon has to cur some of the nerves within the cornea which impact how the tear glands and cornea communicate. This results in the eyes drying out. It is important to follow the instructions of the surgeon and constantly lubricate your eyes with the prescribed eye drops after the surgery. By doing so, dry eyes can be easily treated.

6. Can a pregnant lady undergo LASIK?

A pregnant lady cannot undergo Lasik. During pregnancy, the pregnancy hormones may alter the eye prescription which may result in an ineffective surgery. The steroidal and antibiotic eye drops that are applied after the procedure is also not suitable for pregnant women. It is also not suitable to go for Lasik when you’re breastfeeding as the eye medication may affect the quality of the breast milk. Therefore, always consult a doctor beforehand and only make Lasik plans after you had given birth and also stopped breastfeeding.

7. How can I find if I am suitable for LASIK?

The most important criteria would be to have a stable prescription for at least a year. The surgery would not be effective if your prescription is still changing. It is also important to not have any history or findings of active corneal disease and/or medical eye problems. Extremely dry eyes are also another sign that you’re not a suitable candidate for Lasik. If you are unsure, it always possible to have a consultation with the doctor to do an eye examination.