Are you considering LASIK to correct your myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness) or astigmatism, but unsure if you’re suitable for the procedure? Perhaps you’re concerned about the possible side effects or risks. Not to worry!

Clinical Associate Professor Mohamad Rosman, Head & Senior Consultant from the Refractive Surgery Department at Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC), a member of the SingHealth group, gives detailed answers to your questions.

Question by condor

Hi, I'​m 48 this year and my long-sightedness has increased over the past 4 years from 100 to 200 deg now. For lasik treatment, may I know how long approximately will the sight last till I need to fix reading glasses again? Thank you.

Answered by Clin Assoc Prof Mohamad Rosman, Head & Senior Consultant, Refractive Surgery Department, Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

You are currently presbyopic and need reading glasses. The main aim of LASIK is to correct distance vision and LASIK unable to correct presbyopia fully. As such, you will still need reading glasses even if you go for LASIK.

Question by wendeline92​​​

Hi Dr Tay, would like to ask 1. what are the criteria for LASIK to be performed? 2. Can pre-diabetic patient have the surgery? 3. What is the cost? 4. Is there any subsidised cost? 5. Where can i seek treatment? 6. How long does lasik last? 7. About how long does it take for eyes to recover and adjust after LASIK? What kinds of adjustments at work or home might I need to make during this time?

Answered by Clin Assoc Prof Mohamad Rosman, Head & Senior Consultant, Refractive Surgery Department, Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

  1. You have to be at least 21 years old with a stable spectacle degree and have no cornea problems.
  2. Diabetic patients can undergo LASIK if their diabetes is well-controlled.
  3. The cost of LASIK is approximately $1500 per eye, but you may want to contact the SNEC Laser Vision Centre to determine the exact cost.
  4. LASIK is considered as a form of cosmetic surgery and therefore is not subsidised.
  5. You can seek treatment at the SNEC Laser Vision Centre.
  6. LASIK is meant to be a permanent treatment for myopia and astigmatism. However, in some individuals, some myopia or astigmatism may recur over time. The timing will vary among individuals. These individuals may require a repeat treatment.
  7. Most people are able to resume normal activities the following day after LASIK. However, full visual recovery may take up to 1 week to 1 month after surgery.
  8. You should not swim for 2 weeks or participate in contact sports for 1 month after LASIK. Otherwise, you should be able to perform most normal activities.

Question by shanng04

Would like to know if people with pre-existing medical condition is allowed for Lasik procedure at all? Platelet condition in this case.

Answered by Clin Assoc Prof Mohamad Rosman, Head & Senior Consultant, Refractive Surgery Department, Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

Platelet disorders are not an absolute contraindication for LASIK. You should be able to undergo LASIK if there are no other issues.

Question by agaexs​​

I was told if my eye sight degenerated after lasik. I will not be able to wear contact lenses again. Is that true?

Also, how long is the recovery and the rate of deterioration? Does existing medical condition affect suitability of Lasik as an eye-corrective option?

Appreciate your response.

Thank you.

Answered by Clin Assoc Prof Mohamad Rosman, Head & Senior Consultant, Refractive Surgery Department, Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

If you have undergone LASIK, there is a risk that you may not be able to wear contact lenses. This is because the contact lens may not sit nicely on your cornea due to the difference in shape after LASIK. However, some individuals are still able to wear contact lens after LASIK.

Most people are able to resume normal activities the following day after LASIK. However, full visual recovery may take up to 1 week to 1 month after surgery.

LASIK is meant to be a permanent treatment for myopia and astigmatism. However, in some individuals, some myopia or astigmatism may recur over time. The timing will vary among individuals. These individuals may require a repeat treatment.

This depends on your existing medical condition. Most common medical conditions are not contraindications to LASIK. It is best you consult a LASIK surgeon to determine your suitability for LASIK.

Question by hs

  1. After lasik is done, when long-sightedness sets in, glasses may be needed.
  2. If lasik was done before pregnancy, will the eyes still have good vision, post-pregnancy? Thanks!

Answered by Clin Assoc Prof Mohamad Rosman, Head & Senior Consultant, Refractive Surgery Department, Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

Yes. If you develop presbyopia after LASIK, you will still require reading glasses.

Yes. In general, pregnancy should not affect your vision.

Ref: L20