Lasik, commonly referred to as laser eye surgery or laser vision correction, is a type of refractive surgery for the correction of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism that are quite popular in Singapore. During the surgery,a flap of the corneal surface is raised and a thin layer of underlying tissue is removed using a laser. We are here to debunk the myths surrounding Lasik in Singapore.
1. LASIK can only correct nearsightedness
Lasik can treat many other eye issues other than nearsightedness. Lasik can also correct the refractive errors of farsightedness and astigmatism. However, conditions like presbyopia – the need for reading glasses, can’t be corrected by Lasik as it is not a refractive error.
2. LASIK surgery is painful
Lasik surgery is painless. Before the procedure, the surgeon will place numbing eye drops in both your eyes. During the surgery, you may feel a slight pressure but there should not be any form of pain.
3. The effects of LASIK surgery can only last a few years.
In fact, the results of Lasik are long term and very permanent. Lasik surgery reshapes the tissue in front of the eyes, making the changes last a whole lifetime. There will be the risk of myopia coming back but it is all dependent on the lifestyle of the individual. It is important to practice good eyecare habits and follow the eyecare instructions of the doctor after the surgery. However, the chances of the degree coming back to the eyes are very rare.
4. LASIK is permanent and the effects last forever
The result of Lasik is permanent and the vision rarely deteriorates to the original state. However, most people’s vision gets worse over time as part of the natural ageing process. The eye can still change its shape and it is very dependent on the individual. Therefore, it is important to follow the proper eyecare instructions to prevent the vision from deteriorating.
5. It takes a long time to recover from LASIK surgery.
It does not take long to recover from Lasik surgery. Patients usually experience functional vision within 24 hours of the surgery. The vision will gradually improve over the next few days. It is important to follow the instruction given to you by the surgeon to ensure a speedy recovery. If there is ever a need to, you may still be able to go back for another surgery if there are any refractive errors.
6. Everyone is suitable for LASIK
Not everyone is suitable for Lasik. People with thin or irregular corneas are not suitable to undergo the procedure. People under the age of 18 are also not allowed to undergo Lasik as the eye prescription is most likely still changing. Other factors like high refractive error and eye disorders can also affect the patient’s capability to undergo the surgery. Having certain conditions like autoimmune diseases may prevent proper healing after the surgery. Therefore, it is important to check to see if you are a suitable candidate for Lasik.
7. A person who has undergone LASIK cannot wear contact lens.
There would not be a need to wear contact lens after Lasik surgery. If you still want to wear contact lenses, do consult your doctor to check. You would need to get a new pair of lenses as the shape of your eyes might have been altered during the surgery. Professionals have also recommended that you wait 2 to 3 months after Lasik to wear contact lenses again. Hard lenses are a big no as your eyes are still delicate from the recovery process.
Next, check out the LASIK price in Singapore!