Atlas Eye Specialist Centre
👨⚕️ Doctor
🏥 Services Offered
- LASIK
- ReLEx SMILE
- Cataract Surgery
- Implantable Contact Lens
While glasses and contact lenses can temporarily improve your vision, nothing compares to the long-term benefits of vision-correcting surgeries like LASIK. However, the high cost of LASIK procedures can be a significant barrier for many.
Don’t worry—this article will guide you through the essential information you need to make an informed decision about your LASIK procedure. We’ll cover:
- The cost of LASIK
- Different types of procedures
- Payment options available
- Helpful tips to achieve your desired vision!
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What are the different types of LASIK procedures, and how much do they cost in Singapore?
Below is an overview outlining the main vision correction procedures, how they work, and their respective costs.
Vision Correction Procedures
LASIK (Laser-Assisted Stromal In-situ Keratomileusis)
- A laser creates a flap on the cornea’s surface.
- A second laser corrects the refractive error.
- The flap is repositioned.
Cost range: $3500 – $5000
Atlas Eye’s LASIK surgery fees starts from just $3,535 for two eyes.
Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA):
EpiLASIK (Epithelial LASIK)
TransPRK (Transepithelial PRK)
ASA is a no-flap, no-incision, surface-based procedure. It involves:
- Removing the thin layer of cells on the cornea’s surface.
- Using a laser to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors.
- Placing a protective contact lens over the eye until the surface cells regenerate, which takes a few days.
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Cost range: $3600 – $4500
ReLEX SMILE (Refractive Lenticule Extraction, Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
ReLEX SMILE is a minimally invasive procedure. It involves:
- Creating a small incision (instead of a flap) on the eye’s surface using a laser.
- Removing the refractive lenticule through the micro-incision.
The cornea’s curvature changes as it collapses into the empty space.
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Cost range: $4500 – $6000
Note that the cost for LASIK performed on one eye will not be half the price of both eyes. This is because the same amount of consumables is used regardless of whether one or both eyes are treated.
For more details on LASIK procedures, check out this comprehensive guide: The ultimate guide to wavefront-guided LASIK and LASIK Xtra in Singapore
Comparing LASIK Costs in Private vs. Public Eye Health Institutions in Singapore
Public health institutions offering vision correction services include the Singapore National Eye Centre and the National University Hospital.
The cost of LASIK procedures is similar between private and public institutions.
What factors contribute to the cost differences in LASIK procedures in Singapore?
The high cost of LASIK can be daunting, but most patients find it worthwhile. Several factors influence the pricing, often due to how clinics package their services to make them more appealing.
Here are four key factors that affect LASIK surgery costs:
- Pre-operative eye evaluation services
- Post-operative consultation services
- Cost of post-operative LASIK medication
- Type of technology used for LASIK
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Pre-operative Eye Evaluation
Before undergoing LASIK or any vision correction procedure, you must go through a standardized evaluation process. This includes tests to determine if your eyes are suitable for LASIK and to recommend the best procedure for you.
Tests include:
- Measuring corneal dimensions
- Assessing visual acuity
The evaluation typically takes 2 to 3 hours and forms the bulk of your time at the clinic. Based on the results, the doctor will decide if you’re a suitable candidate for LASIK.
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The cost of pre-operative evaluations can range from $5 – $300. Be cautious of clinics offering cheap evaluations, as they may exclude the doctor’s consultation fee. Similarly, some clinics may offer low surgery prices but charge high fees for pre-operative tests.
Always clarify prices before committing to a clinic!
Post-operative Consultation
The LASIK procedure itself takes less than 30 minutes for both eyes. After a quick post-surgery check, your doctor will prescribe medication, and you can go home.
However, you’ll need follow-up appointments over the next 3 to 6 months. The number of visits varies by patient. Some clinics include these follow-ups in the surgery cost as part of a package.
Post-operative reviews typically cost between $50 – $200 per visit.
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Cost of Post-operative LASIK Medication
Post-operative medication usually includes eye drops, such as antibiotics and steroids. Some patients may also receive oral medication, like sleeping pills, to help with sleep while wearing eye protection.
Generally, these medications are included in the surgery package. However, some clinics may charge extra for eye drops, which can cost between $10 – $30.
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Type of Technology Used for LASIK
The technology used for LASIK can also affect the price. Clinics using advanced machines may charge more. For example, some clinics uses the Schwind Amaris machine for TransPRK, which delivers excellent results.
Remember, the most expensive procedure isn’t always the best. It’s about finding the right procedure for your eyes and lifestyle. Choose a doctor you trust and feel comfortable with.
How long will my LASIK results last?
LASIK provides permanent vision correction for most people.
However, in rare cases, the effects may last only about 10 years. This is because, while the cornea is reshaped for better vision, the eyes continue to age. As you grow older, you may experience decreased visual acuity or develop conditions like cataracts.
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What if I need LASIK enhancement or follow-up treatments?
Many clinics cover the cost of additional LASIK treatments, while others may charge for them separately. You have to clarify with your eye clinic how much they charge for enhancement treatments. Some clinics charge around $600 per eye for returning patients.
Always check with your clinic before proceeding!
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Financing Your LASIK Treatment in Singapore
Most clinics offer similar payment methods, but it’s important to clarify what you’re paying for.
Insurance and Medisave
Since LASIK and other vision correction procedures are considered elective (non-essential), they cannot be paid for using insurance or Medisave.
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Installment Plans
You can pay for LASIK in full or opt for installment plans. Many clinics offer 0% interest installment plans over 6 to 12 months.
Payment methods include cash, NETS, debit, or credit cards. Note that NETS typically has a daily withdrawal limit of $2,000.
Related article: TransPRK Surgery in Singapore
Are there any subsidies or discounts for LASIK treatments in Singapore?
According to MOH guidelines, doctors cannot offer discounts for medical procedures to prevent unnecessary treatments.
LASIK vs. Contact Lenses vs. Spectacles
Still unsure? Consider your lifestyle and whether LASIK can enhance it.
Here’s a comparison of the benefits of LASIK versus other vision correction methods.
- Cost over 10 years
- LASIK: $3500 – $5000
- Contact lenses: ~$5040
- Glasses: ~$1200
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- Convenience
- LASIK: no daily maintenance; instant clarity
- Contact lenses: high upkeep; risk of infections
- Glasses: Low maintenance; occasional discomfort especially when exercising
- Safety
- LASIK: low risk with modern technology
- Contact lenses: Higher infection risk
- Glasses: Safest option
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How to Choose Your LASIK Doctor
The key is to find a doctor you trust. If you’re considering LASIK, look for an ophthalmologist with experience and expertise in refractive surgery.
Some doctors have additional training in LASIK or Advanced Surface Ablation techniques, while others may have completed fellowships in refractive surgery. These doctors are well-equipped to perform the procedure safely.
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Here are some tips:
- Clarify the clinic’s pricing structure and watch out for hidden costs.
- Avoid “bait and switch” tactics where advertised prices may only apply to patients with lower refractive errors.
LASIK can be life-changing, so take the time to research and find a doctor you trust completely.
Patient experiences often reflect the quality of care you can expect. One recent patient shared their experience with ReLEX SMILE at Atlas Eye: