If you are dreaming of perfect vision, you can always choose to go for laser eye correction such as LASIK surgery. As its name suggests, LASIK uses laser technology to reshape your cornea and help you regain your vision. This might come as a surprise to you but not everyone are suitable for LASIK surgery even if they wanted to go for it. So what are the criteria, let’s have a look!
What is the ideal age to have my LASIK surgery done?
You would have to be at least 18 years old to have LASIK surgery done in Singapore and that your eye prescription has stabilised. Most eye surgeons will want to ensure that your eye power has not changed for at least 12 months prior to surgery.
There is no maximum age for laser eye surgery done. In some cases, it can even be used to correct presbyopia (‘age-related near-sightedness’), which is common among people who are 40 years old and above. However, those who are above 60 years old would be subjected to additional eye checks to check for any signs of cataracts. If they are suffering from cataracts, you would have to go for a cataract removal (phacoemulsification) surgery instead.
If I am pregnant can I go for the surgery?
Congrats on your little bundle of joy! However if you are pregnant, you would have to put your LASIK plan on hold for the time being, at least 6 months after your baby is born. Do check with your LASIK doctor for the exact timeline!
I have a previous eye injury, am I still suitable?
You will need to pay heed with extreme caution if you are one who relies on your contact lenses to see clearly. Sleeping in with your contact lenses, over wearing your lenses or other bad contact lens habits can potentially lead to corneal infection and ulcer. If you have previous incidences of eye injury, you may be wondering if you are suitable for LASIK surgery. If your case isn’t severe and your cornea has healed nicely, you may just be able to go for the surgery. Do let your LASIK doctor know about your previous eye injury during the consultation.
How about if I am suffering from existing medical diseases?
There are diseases which may compromise the healing ability of the body, such as diabetes, lupus, HIV, just to name a few. But that doesn’t mean that you’re definitely not suitable! If your condition is mild and under control, you may even be able to correct your vision. Be sure to discuss your condition with your doctor!
What if I am not suitable for laser eye surgery?
If your prescription falls outside the treatment range for LASIK, then you may consider Implantable Contact Lenses(ICL). Though ICL tends to be more invasive, it can correct up to 1,800 degrees of myopia. Good news if you are highly myopic!
How do I determine if I am suitable for the surgery?
You can go for the eye evaluation first before making any decisions! The eye evaluation in Singapore is affordably priced, setting you back anywhere from $9 – $300. It should include a wide range of eye exams (including eye prescription, eye pressure, eye curvature measurements, etc), as well as a personal consultation with your eye surgeon. Based on your eye test results, he/ she will be the person who will determine your suitability. You should also discuss any possible risks with your doctor.
Check out this comprehensive article about LASIK in Singapore if you are interested to know more about complete LASIK information in Singapore!