When considering LASIK surgery, the first step is to step in for the LASIK evaluation. At Lang Eye Centre, eye tests are conducted by trained and certified optometrists. Our LASIK surgeon will share the results during the consultation and determine your suitability for refractive surgery in Singapore.
At our Mount Elizabeth Novena eye clinic, the evaluation is an elaborate process and informative experience, helping you understand your eye condition and surgical options so you can make informed decisions. This article will bring you through what to expect during a LASIK consultation in Singapore at Lang Eye Centre.
Purpose of a LASIK Evaluation
A LASIK evaluation in Singapore serves several essential purposes:
- Assess the anatomy and general health of the eyes
- Ascertain the most suitable refractive surgery option (LASIK, epi-LASIK, ReLEx SMIL or implantable contact lens if laser vision correction is not suitable)
- Identify eye issues that may contraindicate LASIK surgery (e.g., irregularly shaped or thin corneas)
- Have your questions and concerns answered by the LASIK surgeon
Types of eye tests performed
Your LASIK evaluation will include a comprehensive list of diagnostic tests using up-to-date equipment at our Mount Elizabeth Eye Clinic. Below is a list of what is tested:
Visual acuity test
An eye exam to check how well you can see, by identifying the smallest letters you can read on a Snellen chart placed 6 metres away.
Tonometry test
A test to measure the pressure within your eyes by directing a gentle puff of air onto them. It helps detect signs of glaucoma.
Manifest refraction
An eye test to determine your spectacle prescription by testing different lenses in front of the eyes.
Corneal thickness measurement
Conducted using the Zyoptix Diagnostic Workstation (ZDW), this test measures the thickness of your cornea to see if your eyes are suitable for LASIK.
Corneal shape analysis
Also using the ZDW, this test looks at the shape and curvature of the cornea to identify issues like keratoconus (corneal bulging).
iDESIGN analysis
Provides an accurate 3D map of your cornea, measuring refractive errors such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism for a tailored LASIK treatment plan.
Pupil dilation
Eyedrops are used to enlarge the pupils, allowing the LASIK surgeon to thoroughly examine the retina and optic nerve. After dilation, vision will be blurry for 4 to 6 hours. If you are short-sighted, remove your glasses and hold reading material close. Distance vision typically remains unaffected.
Counselling session
While waiting for your pupils to fully dilate, our counsellor will explain your eye condition, the surgery process, types of laser procedures available, potential benefits and risks, expected outcomes, and recovery process.
Cyclo refraction
Once your pupils are dilated and the eye muscles are relaxed, your prescription is measured again using different lenses to ensure accurate results. Short-sighted individuals may need to remove glasses and hold objects close to read for the next 4 to 6 hours.
LASIK surgeon consultation
After completing all tests, the LASIK surgeon will review results and suggest the most suitable LASIK options based on your eye health, profession, and lifestyle. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and address any concerns.
Questions you may be asked by the eye doctor
During your consultation, expect your eye care specialist or eye surgeon in Singapore to ask the following questions to better understand your surgical objectives and needs:
- Do you use glasses or are you a contact lens user?
- What is your occupation?
- Are you pregnant (females)?
- What are your visual goals post-LASIK surgery?
The above will help your LASIK surgeon recommend a customised procedure – be it LASIK, epi-LASIK or ReLEx SMILE surgery in Singapore to suit your lifestyle needs.
How do evaluation results determine suitability?
All the test results derived from the LASIK evaluation help the eye surgeon make his/her medical decision/judgement. Here is how:
- Corneal thickness that is too thin may require surface-based laser treatment like epi-LASIK and not LASIK surgery.
- Irregularities in corneal shape may point to a higher incidence of post-op complications.
- Level of eye prescription: Very high prescriptions, especially above -9.00, may benefit from implantable contact lens surgery and not any form of laser vision correction.
- Eye health: Conditions like glaucoma or cataracts may disqualify you.
Our experienced eye surgeons located at Mount Elizabeth Novena in Singapore will bring you through the test results and recommend the most suitable surgical option based on safety and efficacy.
What happens after your evaluation is complete
When the eye care specialist confirms your suitability, the next steps are:
- Surgery scheduling: At our LASIK clinic at Mount Elizabeth Novena, you are able to schedule surgery within days or weeks from evaluation day in most cases.
- Associated fees: You will be given a detailed breakdown of all associated fees relating to LASIK eye surgery in Singapore, including medication and post-op review fees.
- Pre-surgery advice: A complete list of do’s and don’ts will be provided, and they include laying off contact lenses prior to surgery, no makeup and no surgery on surgery day.
Conclusion
If you are ready to take the next leap of faith towards clear vision without the hassle of visual aids, contact Lang Eye Centre at [email protected] or +65 6684 1000 to schedule your LASIK evaluation. We look forward to partnering with you in this journey towards visual freedom.
