NEWS

Even with the increased popularity of eye LASIK in Singapore, it still doesn’t change the fact that most of the time, LASIK is an elective surgical procedure with no pressing medical.

The decision to go for LASIK surgery is a very personal one. Think carefully through all factors influencing your decision. Consider your lifestyle, vision needs, satisfaction or dis-satisfaction with spectacles and contact lens wear in making your decision. Anyone contemplating LASIK surgery must weigh the benefits against their own risk tolerance for potential complications. Understand your expectations from the surgery. And ask yourself: “Are they realistic?”

Additionally, those with high myopia should be aware that the complication rate is higher. LASIK does not interfere with the normal aging eye disorders such as presbyopia and cataract. In fact, those over the age of 35 years often find that while LASIK surgery has been successful in restoring clear distance vision, it may unmask the need to wear reading glasses.

The following are reasons are often the top factors for a patient to decide to go for the LASIK Surgery:

1. To achieve freedom from glasses and contact lenses; that is to be able to wake up and see the alarm clock, put on make-up, shave, and other daily tasks without having to reach for the glasses. Also, no more foggy or lost glasses. No more sore and red eyes from wearing contact lenses.
2. To save time and money – it is estimated that a typical contact lens wearer would spend 20 minutes a day wearing, removing, cleaning and maintaining them. This translates to 7,300 minutes per year in contact lens care alone, not including time spent on fittings, buying replacement lenses and check-ups.
3. Occupational reasons – spectacles and contact lens wear may not be appropriate or allowed in certain jobs.
4. To be able to enjoy many sports such as swimming, scuba diving, skiing, football, etc. Better without the hassle and inconvenience of wearing glasses and contacts.
5. To feel more confident and increase self-esteem. This is especially relevant for those with high myopia who may often feel “visually handicapped”.
6. To alleviate spectacles wear intolerance. – Unable to wear contacts due to contact lens wear intolerance or medical complications such as allergic conjunctivitis, GPC, corneal ulcers, cornea inflammation and dry eyes.
7. For personal security reasons – to be able to see clearly during emergencies such as fire, floods, accidents or while travelling.

After carefully evaluating your personal situation, don’t forget that being willing is just the first step, you need a thorough discussion with your doctor to fully understand the risks associated and manage your expectations before you make the final decision. Be aware of the medical leaves that you must take right after the surgery and the activities that you shouldn’t be doing for the first couple of weeks to couple of months after the surgery before you make the appointment.

You will need about 2 days of medical leave immediately following the surgery, avoid any activity that may risk getting dust or any objects into your eyes, or direct contact with your eyes; additionally, avoid contact sports, hot tub, or swimming pool for about 2 months after the surgery.