LASIK/EPI-LASIK Treatment Singapore

SMILE Pro /LASIK / EPI-LASIK Treatment in Singapore

Achieve Clear Vision with Advanced Laser Eye Surgery

If you’re considering LASIK in Singapore, you may also have come across SMILE Pro /EPI-LASIK as alternative treatments. They are highly effective laser eye surgeries designed to correct refractive vision issues such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Understanding their differences can help you choose the best option for your vision needs.

What is LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a widely performed laser vision correction procedure. It reshapes the cornea to improve how light is focused on the retina, resulting in clearer vision.

Benefits of LASIK:

Fast Vision Improvement – Many patients notice clearer vision within a few hours.
Quick Recovery – Most people can return to normal activities within a day or two.
Minimal Discomfort – The procedure is virtually painless, with only mild irritation post-surgery.
Proven Effectiveness – LASIK has a high success rate in reducing dependency on glasses and contact lenses.

Considerations for LASIK:

Some patients may experience temporary dry eyes or visual disturbances (e.g., halos or glare).
Not suitable for individuals with thin corneas or certain pre-existing eye conditions.

What is EPI-LASIK?

EPI-LASIK (Epithelial Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a surface-based laser vision correction technique. It is recommended for patients who may not be suitable for LASIK due to corneal thickness or other eye health considerations.

Benefits of EPI-LASIK:

Ideal for Thinner Corneas – A great option for those who are not LASIK candidates.
Less Risk of Flap Complications – Since it does not involve creating a corneal flap, it may be safer for some patients.

Considerations for EPI-LASIK:

Longer Recovery Time – Vision improvement can take several days to weeks.
More Post-Surgery Discomfort – Some patients experience mild discomfort during the healing process.
Temporary Hazy Vision – This is common in the initial healing phase but improves over time.

Choosing Between LASIK and EPI-LASIK

The choice between LASIK and EPI-LASIK depends on various factors, including:

Corneal Thickness: EPI-LASIK may be better for those with thinner corneas.
Patient Preference: Some may prefer the flap-less approach of EPI-LASIK.
Eye Health: Pre-existing conditions may influence the decision.

Both procedures have high success rates, but the choice between them depends on individual factors such as corneal thickness, lifestyle, and specific vision correction needs.

Consulting with an ophthalmologist can help determine the best option for a given patient.

SMILE Pro: The Latest Advancement in Vision Correction

What is SMILE Pro

This is the latest form of refractive surgery to treat nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Laser is used to create a small disc of corneal tissue (lenticule) which is removed through a small opening without creating a flap. The procedure is quicker and less invasive than LASIK and EPI-LASIK It causes less dry eyes and recovery is faster than traditional LASIK.

SMILE Pro represents the cutting edge of refractive surgery. It utilizes the Visumax 800’s advanced Femtosecond Laser to create a tiny, lens-shaped piece of tissue (called a lenticule) within the cornea. This process is remarkably fast, taking only 8-10 seconds per eye – three times quicker than the original ReLEx SMILE procedure. The ophthalmologist then removes this lenticule through a small 2-4 millimeter incision. By reshaping the cornea, the light entering the eye focuses correctly on the retina, restoring clear vision and potentially eliminating the need for glasses or contacts. SMILE Pro offers a more liberating lifestyle, removing vision-related limitations and opening up new career possibilities.

Why Choose SMILE Pro over Other LASIK Procedures?

Traditional LASIK surgery involves creating a corneal flap, either with a blade (Blade LASIK) or a laser (Femtosecond/Bladeless LASIK). Blade LASIK carries potential risks, including incomplete or uneven flaps, altered corneal curvature, and increased infection risk.

SMILE Pro distinguishes itself by correcting vision without creating a corneal flap. This flapless approach offers several advantages:

Maintains Corneal Strength and Shape: Preserves the structural integrity of the cornea.
Maintains Corneal Thickness: Reduces the risk of complications associated with thinner corneas.
Preserves Natural Corneal Curvature: Contributes to optimal visual outcomes.
Reduced Infection Risk: Minimizes the risk associated with creating and lifting a corneal flap.

SMILE Pro is widely recognized within the ophthalmology community for its precision and safety.

SMILE PRO	LASIK
A small incision is made into the cornea, and a layer of tissue is removed and pulled out.	A circular flap is created in the cornea, and the tissue is then disintegrated with a laser.
RECOVERY:
Faster recovery time and less discomfort than LASIK.	Slightly longer recovery time.
SAFETY:
Less risk of complications like dry eye and flap complications.	A proven track record of safety and efficacy.
SUITABILITY:
Ideal for people with an active lifestyle who want to minimize risks associated with a corneal flap.	Addresses a wide range of vision problems.
AVAILABILITY:
May not be available at all clinics or for all prescriptions.	Widely available.

Is SMILE Pro laser eye surgery better than Lasik?
The right surgery depends on your individual needs, eye health, and lifestyle. A qualified surgeon can help you determine which procedure is best for you.