Refractive Surgery (LASIK)

2024/05/31

NUH LASIK Centre

A Seamless Vision Correction Journey

The NUH LASIK Centre specialises in high-quality refractive surgery, offering personalised procedures for various vision correction needs. Our experienced team of eye surgeons utilises advanced technologies and clinical expertise to deliver precise, desired visual outcomes.

About Us

The NUH LASIK Centre is dedicated to providing tailored, laser vision correction services for patients who desire optimum vision. Our team of highly trained ophthalmologists upholds the highest standards of safety, ethics and professionalism.

We recognise that laser eye surgery is a major decision. Our surgeons are dedicated to offering personalised care, guiding patients from initial assessment to treatment and follow-up.

Our Promise: YOUR VISION IS OUR PRIORITY

Safety

The Centre maintains a strong focus on patient safety, leveraging technology to enhance care quality. Our LASIK suite, designed with strict control over humidity, temperature and air quality, features a positive pressure airflow system with HEPA filters, ensuring an optimal environment for surgery.

Technology

Equipped with innovative laser technologies, including the MEL 80 excimer laser and femtosecond lasers, we provide various treatment options that are precise, fast, safe and comfortable.

Academic Medical Centre

As part of Singapore's first academic health system, our affiliation with leading clinical and scientific minds enables us to integrate strengths in clinical care, education and research for our patients' benefit.

What Is Refractive Surgery?

Refractive surgery, a term for laser surgery correcting vision problems such as

myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness) and astigmatism, reduces dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

Overview Of Treatments and Services

The NUH LASIK Centre assesses and treats patients aiming to lessen their reliance on glasses or contact lenses.

We offer Advanced Surface Abalation techniques such as Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) and Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK), as well as Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) such as All Laser LASIK (Femto LASIK) for the correction of myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness) and astigmatism.

We also offer ReLEx SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), a minimally invasive, bladeless technique with a fast recovery rate. Additionally, we perform phakic intraocular lens implants and advanced cataract surgery for those unsuitable for laser vision correction or with cataracts.

Our Services

Advanced Surface Ablation Procedures

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
PTK (Phototherapeutic Keratectomy)

Laser Assisted Techniques

All Laser LASIK (Femto LASIK)
Cornea Cross-linking
Topographical-guided LASIK
Wavefront/Tissue Saving LASIK
ReLEx SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)

Surgical Techniques

Implantable Contact Lenses
Advanced Cataract Surgery

We also provide:

Enhancement Services (Complimentary if required within 3 years post-surgery)
Cataract consultation for post-LASIK patients
LASIK consultation for patients who had done cataract surgery

Our Prices

Description	*Estimated price with GST (per eye)
Description	Associate Consultant	Consultant	Senior Consultant
PRK (Aspheric, Wavefront/Tissue Saving, Topographic)	$2797 to $3562	$2979 to $3927	$3039 to $4048
LASIK-Bladeless	$2797 to $3562	$2979 to $3927	$3039 to $4048
ReLex SMILE	$2797 to $3562	$2979 to $3927	$3039 to $4048
Pre-LASIK assessment (per visit)	$138
Standard medication	$35 to $135
Note: Price includes 3 post-LASIK, 2 refraction consultations and free enhancements for the first 3 years and excludes pre-LASIK assessment consultation. *All prices quoted are inclusive of GST (All figures have been rounded up). Prices are subject to change without prior notice and are accurate as of April 2023. Payment can be made by cash, NETS or credit card. Medisave claim is not applicable to all LASIK packages.

For more information on our LASIK procedures or appointment, please contact:

LASIK Centre
5 Lower Kent Ridge Road
Singapore 119074
NUH Medical Centre, Level 17
Tel: (+65) 6908 2222
Email: [email protected]

PRK

Overview

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK), an advanced surface ablation procedure, serves as an alternative to conventional LASIK. PRK is "flap-free" method, offering the same laser vision correction as LASIK but without the need for a corneal flap incision.

In PRK, the corneal epithelium, the outermost layer of cells, is removed. An excimer laser then reshapes the cornea to achieve the desired vision correction.

Are You A Suitable Candidate for PRK?

Consider PRK if you:

Have thin corneas
Are at a higher risk of eye trauma, due to either lifestyle or profession. This includes:

Regular participation in contact or extreme sports such as soccer, rugby and martial arts
Working in dynamic environments like the military

Have myopia or hyperopia less than -5.00 dioptres and astigmatism not exceeding -2.5D

General eligibility for laser vision correction includes:

Being at least 18 years old
Having a stable eye prescription for a minimum of one year
No existing eye conditions such as cataract or glaucoma
Not being pregnant or breastfeeding

The PRK Procedure

PRK Procedure - Step 1

Step 1: The procedure begins with anaesthetic eye drops to numb the eye, then an alcohol solution is used to dissolve the corneal epithelium, which is then removed with a special instrument.

PRK Procedure - Step 2

Step 2: The pre-programmed excimer laser then ablates the corneal tissue. This reshapes the curvature of the cornea to correct the refractive error.

PRK Procedure - Step 3

Step 3: A bandage contact lens is then used to cover the treated cornea to assist the healing process.

The Epi-LASIK Procedure

Epi-LASIK, a newer variant of PRK, utilises a mechanical, blunt tissue separator instead of alcohol solution, reducing potential alcohol-related reactions and facilitating faster healing. The same laser as in LASIK and PRK is employed. After reshaping the cornea, the thin layer of cells is repositioned. Epi-LASIK is especially beneficial for those with thin corneas requiring significant vision correction.

Advantages of PRK

Reduced risk of cornea flap complications

Unlike conventional LASIK, PRK eliminates the creation of a cornea flap, thus reducing risks like cornea flap dislodgement, wrinkles or infection. It is particularly suitable for individuals with very active lifestyles or those in professions with a higher risk of eye injury.

Maintains corneal structural integrity

PRK involves less corneal tissue removal, making it a suitable choice for individuals with high myopia or thin corneas. This reduces the risk of postoperative corneal ectasia, a rare condition where a thinned cornea bulges forward, distorting vision.

Comparable long-term outcomes to LASIK

Concerns Regarding PRK

It may involve more discomfort and a longer recovery period compared to conventional LASIK.
Optimal visual acuity may take several weeks to be attained.

LASIK (All Laser, Femto LASIK)

Overview

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, or LASIK, is a laser eye surgery technique used to correct myopia, astigmatism and hyperopia. The procedure involves reshaping the cornea's curvature with a high-precision laser, thereby improving the eye's refractive state and visual acuity.

In LASIK, a thin flap of corneal tissue is created using either:

1) A microkeratome, a specialised bladed instrument, or

2) A femtosecond laser keratome, also known as "bladeless LASIK", "all laser LASIK" or "femto LASIK", which is considered to offer greater safety and superior flap quality compared to the microkeratome.

After creating the flap, it is gently lifted, allowing an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. The flap is then carefully repositioned to its original place.

Are You A Suitable Candidate for LASIK?

General eligibility for LASIK includes:

Being at least 18 years old
Having a stable eye prescription for a minimum of one year
No existing eye conditions such as cataract or glaucoma
Not being pregnant or breastfeeding
Having low to high myopia of up to -1500 degrees, astigmatism of up to -600 degrees, or low to moderate hyperopia

Blade LASIK Procedure

Blade LASIK Procedure - Step 1

Step 1: After numbing of the eye, a mechanical blade – Microkeratome creates a LASIK flap on the cornea of desired thickness. This flap is then manually lifted revealing the Stroma.

Blade LASIK Procedure - Step 2

Step 2: The Excimer laser ablates the pre calculated corneal tissue on the Stroma that in turn reshapes the cornea

Blade LASIK Procedure - Step 3

Step 3: The LASIK flap is carefully repositioned over the treatment area by the surgeon, who then may or may not use a bandage contact lens.

View video

Bladeless LASIK / All Laser LASIK / Femto LASIK Procedure

Femto LASIK

Step 1: In Femto LASIK, a high precision Femtosecond laser is used to create a corneal flap of desired thickness, instead of a mechanical blade or microkeratome.

The rest of the steps are same as blade LASIK above

Advantages of LASIK

LASIK is associated with minimal discomfort during and after surgery, with a lower risk of haze or blurring compared to PRK.
Most patients experience rapid visual recovery within a day of the surgery.
LASIK is known for its high success rate and positive long-term visual outcomes.

Concerns Regarding LASIK

Some patients may experience dry eyes temporarily after surgery, which can be effectively managed with eye drops or punctal occluders to improve tear volume.
While there are mild risks assosciated with corneal flaps creation, choosing an experienced surgeon can significantly minimise these risks. Individuals with highly active lifestyles or those in professions with a higher risk of eye injury may opt for PRK or Epi-LASIK, which do not involve creating a corneal flap.

ReLEx SMILE

Single-Step, Bladeless, Flapless and Minimally-Invasive Procedure

ReLEx SMILE (Refractive Lenticule Extraction, Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) represents the latest advancement in laser vision correction for myopia and astigmatism. This innovative procedure merges the benefits of PRK and LASIK. Utilising a high-precision femtosecond laser, it involves creating a lenticule (a small piece of corneal tissue) within the cornea, which is then extracted through a small keyhole incision. This single-step process effectively reshapes the cornea to correct vision.

Advantages of ReLEx SMILE

The procedure maintains corneal integrity, especially beneficial for patients with thin corneas, as the upper layers remain intact.
Unlike LASIK, ReLEx SMILE does not require creating a cornea flap, thus avoiding complications such as dislodgement and infection. It is particularly suitable for individuals with an active lifestyle.
Designed for greater comfort, ReLEx SMILE offers a fast and relatively pain-free experience. Post-surgery, most patients report minimal discomfort and a reduced risk of dry eyes.

Are You a Suitable Candidate for ReLEx SMILE?

General eligibility for ReLEx SMILE includes:

Being at least 18 years old
Having a stable eye prescription for a minimum of one year
No existing eye conditions such as cataract or glaucoma
Not being pregnant or breastfeeding
Having low to high myopia of up to -1500 degrees or astigmatism

The ReLEX SMILE Procedure

ReLEX SMILE Procedure - Step 1

Step 1: Once the eye is numbed with anaesthetic eye drops, a high precision femtosecond laser carves a pre-calculated corneal tissue lenticule.

ReLEX SMILE Procedure - Step 2

Step 2: This lenticule is manually extracted using a 2-4 mm small incision (hence no flap on the cornea is created).

ReLEX SMILE Procedure - Step 3

Step 3: Once the lenticule is extracted, the cornea achieves the desired shape and refractive error is corrected.

Comparison between ReLEx, Femto LASIK and PRK / LASEK

PRESBYOND

PRESBYOND® Laser Blended Vision - Optimising Visual Clarity for All Distances in Presbyopia

Presbyopia

Overview

PRESBYOND offers an innovative solution for treating presbyopia, an age-related eye condition characterised by the progressive loss of the ability to focus clearly on close objects., typically noticeable after the age of forty. Unlike traditional refractive surgeries such as LASIK, which do not address both distance and near vision concurrently, PRESBYOND effectively overcomes this limitation.

The procedure combines the precision of corneal refractive surgery with an enhanced depth of field, resulting in improved visual acuity. Utilising naturally occurring spherical aberrations, PRESBYOND represents a superior alternative to conventional monovision, specifically tailored for the growing number of presbyopic patients.

What Are The Benefits of PRESBYOND Laser Blended Vision?

PRESBYOND differes from conventional monovision methods by customising treatment based on preoperative wavefront data and the functional age of each eye, ensuring an increased depth of field.

The customised treatment plan enables patients to achieve sharp vision for at distances—near, intermediate and far.

Most patients experience the ability to read without glasses on the same day of the surgery.

PRESBYOND Procedure

PRESBYOND Procedure - Step 1

Step 1: A Femtosecond laser creates a corneal flap.

PRESBYOND Procedure - Step 2

Step 2: Patient is relocated from the Femtosecond laser to Excimer laser.

PRESBYOND Procedure - Step 3

Step 3: Flap is elevated. The Excimer laser corrects the vision.

PRESBYOND Procedure - Step 4

Step 4: The flap is carefully repositioned over the treatment area.

Are You A Suitable Candidate?

Consider PRESBYOND if you:

Are 44 years and above and rely on presbyopic glasses for near work.
Are eligble for refractive surgery and are highly motivated.
Have myopia up to -8.00 D (SE) and hyperopia up to +5.00 D (SE).

Note: Patients with very low myopia (< 2.00D) are typically advised against this procedure.

Finding the right option for Presbyopia

Where Can I Find out More Information?

To explore if the PRESBYOND option is right for you, schedule and appointment at the NUH LASIK Centre.

Watch this video to learn more about PRESBYOND Laser Blended Vision:

Watch this video to learn more about how to care for your eyes after PRESBYOND Laser Blended Vision Surgery

Which Procedure Is The Best For Me?

There is no “one-size-fits-all” vision correction treatment

Each individual's eyes are unique, requiring a vision correction procedure that is professionally tailored to their specific needs, considering factors such as age, occupation and lifestyle. Eye surgeons at the NUH LASIK Centre recognise this and offer a diverse range of laser eye surgery options. During your consultation, they will conduct a thorough assessment of your vision and discuss the benefits and risks of each surgical option, enabling you can make an informed decision.

Laser vision correction (LASIK and PRK) is generally suitable for most people. However, the following are circumstances where some options are more suitable or preferred than others.

Contact Sports and Challenging Working Environments

Patients engaged in contact sports like soccer, rugby or martial arts, or working in dynamic environments like the military, might find advanced surface ablation techniques such as PRK or EpiLASIK more suitable to avoid the risk of LASIK flap complications.
ReLEx Smile is also be a viable option, as it involves no flap creation and uses only a femtosecond laser for the correction of myopia and astigmatism.

Dry Eye

Patients with significant dry eye may benefit from techniques that result in less post-operative dryness, such as:

Advanced Surface Ablation technique such as PRK
All-laser LASIK
ReLEx SMILE
Phakic Lens Implants (e.g. Implantable Contact Lens)

Thin Cornea

Suitable treatments for patients with thin corneas include:

Advanced Surface Ablation technique such as PRK
Tissue-saving or Topographical-guided LASIK or PRK
ReLEx SMILE
Phakic Lens Implants (e.g. Implantable Contact Lens)

Irregular Corneas and Increased Higher Order Aberrations

For patients with irregular corneas or a significant higher order aberrations, or those with sub-optimal outcomes from previous LASIK procedures (e.g. off-centre ablations), options include Topographical- or Wavefront-guided LASIK., In severe cases, multiple treatments may be necessary.

Hyperopia

LASIK is generally preferred over an advanced surface ablation techniques such as PRK for hyperopia due to more predictable results. Phakic Lens Implants (e.g. Implantable Contact Lens) are another option for hyperopic patients with thin corneas or dry eyes.

Presbyopia

PRESBYOND Laser Blended Vision offers an advanced method for treating presbyopia and may be the treatment of choice for such patients.

Doctors