Many of us know someone who has undergone the transformative experience of laser vision correction. The freedom and convenience it brings to daily life are truly remarkable.
Despite its widespread acceptance, there are still numerous misconceptions and questions surrounding LASIK in Singapore.
As an ophthalmologist in Singapore with extensive experience in laser vision correction, I aim to clarify some common myths about LASIK that I frequently encounter.
Here are the top five myths I’ve come across in Singapore, and why they are not entirely accurate:
Myth 1: LASIK is the only modern laser vision correction option
A decade ago, LASIK was the go-to choice for laser vision correction. However, with technological and medical advancements, laser vision correction is no longer limited to just LASIK.
Read more: LASIK Costs in Singapore: An Eye Doctor Explains Everything
Today, modern laser vision correction includes a variety of laser-based procedures designed to treat myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism (“san guang” in Mandarin Pinyin), hyperopia (farsightedness), and presbyopia (“lao hua” in Mandarin Pinyin).
To better understand modern laser vision correction, we can categorize them into two main types:
1. Corneal Flap-based Procedures (LASIK)
LASIK:
- Often described as a “cut, flap, and zap” procedure
- An external corneal flap is created using either a blade or a femtosecond laser
- The flap is lifted
- An excimer laser reshapes the cornea
- The corneal flap is then repositioned
ReLEx SMILE:
- An internal flap, known as a ‘lenticule,’ is created within the cornea using a femtosecond laser
- A small incision is made on the side of the cornea to remove the lenticule
- The front cornea collapses into the space created, reshaping the cornea and correcting the refractive error
Related article: ReLEX SMILE in Singapore: Side effects, Costs, Suitability, Risks
2. Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) Methods (PRK, LASEK, epiLASIK, and TransPRK)
- Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) methods like PRK, LASEK, epiLASIK, and TransPRK do not involve creating a corneal flap
- A single excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea from the front
- The difference among ASA procedures lies in how the surface corneal epithelium cells are removed before reshaping the cornea
- A high-oxygen permeability contact lens is placed over the treated area to aid healing
- The lens is removed 4-5 days later once the epithelium cells have regenerated
Myth #2: Laser vision correction leads to dry eyes
Eye specialists now have a better understanding of the causes of dry eyes following laser vision correction.
Read more: Best LASIK Clinics in Singapore
With modern techniques, the risk of dry eyes has been significantly reduced by altering the direction and depth of the corneal flap or by avoiding a corneal flap altogether.
In terms of dry eye risk, LASIK poses the highest risk, followed by ReLEX SMILE due to the creation of corneal flaps.
With Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) procedures, the risk of dry eyes is minimal since the corneal nerve endings remain intact as no flap is created.
Myth #3: Laser vision correction is painful
A common question I hear is: “Is the surgery painful?”
The straightforward answer is NO! Thanks to advancements in medical technology and anesthesia, laser vision correction procedures are safe, effective, and pain-free.
Modern procedures are performed using numbing eye drops. These drops are applied just before the surgery, ensuring you feel no pain during the procedure.
After the anesthesia wears off, you might experience slight discomfort, often described as a ‘scratchy’ or ‘watery’ feeling. However, this is temporary and generally not a significant issue for most patients.
Myth #4: Laser vision correction is risky and can cause blindness
Modern laser vision correction is a low-risk procedure.
For corneal flap-based procedures like LASIK, the primary risks are related to flap complications. In the hands of an experienced surgeon, the risk is typically less than 1%.
With ASA procedures, the main concern is corneal haze, but this risk has been greatly reduced with the use of anti-haze mitomycin eye drops during surgery. Avoiding sunlight exposure in the initial weeks post-surgery is also crucial.
Infection is a potential risk with any surgery, but the likelihood with modern laser vision correction is about one in five thousand eyes (and you only have two).
Myth #5: All eye procedures yield the same results
Currently, there are two main categories of laser vision correction procedures:
- Corneal flap-based procedures like LASIK
- Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) methods such as PRK, LASEK, Epi-LASIK, and TransPRK
- If you prefer to avoid the risks associated with corneal flaps, consider Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) methods, as they do not involve creating a flap.
- If dry eyes are a concern, ASA methods are preferable as they result in fewer damaged corneal nerve endings.
- For those engaged in active or contact sports, ASA is the recommended choice.
- Individuals with thin corneas or high myopia and astigmatism may benefit from ASA methods combined with corneal collagen cross-linking.
It’s important to note that after ASA procedures, you must avoid ultraviolet sunlight exposure for the first few weeks to prevent complications like corneal haze. Wearing dark sunglasses outdoors and limiting outdoor activities to early morning or late evening is essential.
Additionally, be prepared for some post-operative discomfort and blurry vision for the first few days. More medical leave may be needed for recovery, typically four to five days.
While you may feel comfortable enough to return to work after four to five days, full visual recovery to optimal vision may take longer compared to corneal flap-based procedures. It could take up to three months or more, depending on the severity of the refractive error corrected.
Do Your Research
I hope this article has provided you with a clearer understanding of laser vision correction and addressed any concerns you may have.
If you’re considering this journey towards clearer vision, it’s important to conduct your own research and seek recommendations from friends and family who have undergone the procedure.
Choose a clinic and surgeon you feel comfortable with and schedule an evaluation to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the surgery. Wishing you the best of luck and a lifetime of clear vision!