LASIK has been a popular eye procedure in Singapore amongst those who are short-sightedness since it was introduced in the 1990s. You can be spoilt for choice when it comes to eye clinics offering LASIK, and it’s is best to do your homework before deciding on an eye clinic of your choice to ensure the best possible surgical outcome.
What are things to take into consideration when choosing a LASIK clinic in Singapore?
First, surgical outcome. We have heard stories from people who need to return to glasses after LASIK. Do your due diligence and go for a clinic that clearly outlines the results that can be expected after LASIK.
Second, price. LASIK is just one of laser vision correction (LVC) procedures available in Singapore. The other 2 LVC procedures are Advanced Surface Ablation, and ReLEx SMILE.
Related: LASIK in Singapore – Everything You Need To Know About Suitability, Costs And Risks
Simply search online for clinics offering LASIK in Singapore and you can find out their prices. Below is a guide of the pricing for the various types of LVC procedures:
| Procedure | Cost |
| ASA | $3,599 – $4,000 |
| LASIK | $3,100 – $4,500 |
| ReLEx SMILE | $5,000 – $6,000 |
| Post-procedure medication (if not included in package) | $50 – $100 |
| CXL (add-on) | $1,199 – $4,041 |
Below are the 3 types of laser vision correction procedures with each differing in surgical techniques, comfort level and rate recovery:
Advanced surface ablation (ASA) is a ‘no-flap no incision’ procedure based on surface ablation. The visual correction is made directly on the cornea surface after the thin outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed. Visual recovery following ASA treatment generally takes longer and can be accompanied by some discomfort. ASA offers distinct advantages for patients with lower prescription and slightly thinner corneas. Procedures that fall under the category of ASA include PRK, epi-LASIK, LASEK and TransPRK.
Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a flap surgery. A thin 22mm flap is created with a rapid femtosecond laser. The flap is then gently folded back to expose the corneal surface for an excimer laser to reshape the cornea for vision correction. Visual recovery is quick and it is rare for patients to experience flap-related effects. LASIK is the more widely performed laser vision correction procedure since its introduction in the early 1990s. LASIK improves upon ASA in areas of discomfort and recovery time, but may come with a higher possibility of dry eye.
SMall Incision Lenticule Extraction (ReLEx® SMILE) is a minimally invasive procedure which combines the qualities of both PRK and LASIK – flapless and fast recovery. A flapless procedure where the corneal structure is left largely intact, SMILE is ideal for individuals who have active lifestyles/occupations with a risk of trauma to the head or eyes and/or for those predisposed to chronic dry eye. The single-step procedure takes 24 seconds and patients need not change their position unlike LASIK that requires 2 different lasers
Now that you have a better understanding of the different LVC procedures and their pricing, the next thing to consider is your choice of clinic.
When deciding where you should go to for your surgery, keep in mind the following considerations:
- The ability of the surgeon to listen to your needs and provide an unbiased consultation.
- Transparency in the pricing with neither hidden costs nor hard-selling/upselling.
- The credentials and experience of the eye surgeon and eye centre.
- The percentage of patients who require an enhancement after surgery.
- The laser technology adopted by the eye centre.
- The availability of the full spectrum of treatment choices to enable a customised approach
- The level of service provided by the eye centre.
Ultimately, you should choose the eye surgeon/centre you feel the most comfortable with.
Your sight is precious, and you should do all you can to ensure a positive outcome for your health and well-being.
