What is Epi-LASIK?
Epi-LASIK is an advanced eye surgery technique with the purpose to reduce an individual’s dependency on contact lenses and eyeglasses. The uppermost layer of the cornea, or the epithelial layer, is removed. With excimer laser, the corneal surface is reshaped, correcting refractive errors.
Epi-LASIK in singapore corrects astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness. Epi-LASIK merges the attractive and necessary features of other types of corneal surface ablation procedures such as LASEK and PRK.
Who needs to have Epi-LASIK?
The following are the ones who might be advised to have Epi-LASIK eye surgery. If you find yourself in the following descriptions, you might want to consult an eye doctor for further questions.
- Those who have very thin corneas for LASIK
- Those athletes who may possibly experience eye trauma
- Those who have a physically active lifestyle
- Those who have corneal diseases
- Those with dry eyes to a certain degree
- Those who are concerned of having corneal flap
- Those who previously underwent eye surgery
What differentiates LASIK from Epi-LASIK?
The main difference between the two is the layer of the cornea to which the excimer laser is applied to. In LASIK, the excimer laser penetrates deep into the cornea’s permanent layers. On the other hand, in Epi-LASIK in Singapore, the excimer laser touches only the surface of the cornea’s permanent layers.
Will a patient need reading glasses after the surgery?
In general, patients who are 40 years and below can still read well after the surgery even without using reading glasses. In Lasik in Singapore those who are beyond 40 may be advised to use reading glasses for smaller print. Presbyopia, an age-related eye problem, is the natural weakening of the eyes, thus the eyes fail to focus on close objects. This condition naturally occurs early to mid-40s.
When can I go back to my active lifestyle or to engaging in sporting activities?
You can resume doing the activities you usually and normally do once your vision lets you. However, you should already avoid direct or intense sunlight, as well as dusty environments after the treatment.
How soon can I go back to driving after undergoing Epi-LASIK?
It can be possible for you to drive the next day after the Singapore surgery. However, your eye doctor will most probably require somebody else to drive you home after the surgery or until you feel comfortable and safe enough to drive by yourself.
Should I avoid ALL activities after the surgical operation?
No. You can bend over, pick up 30 pounds, and take a shower. However, you will be warned not to let water into the operative eye. For protection, you may be asked to put on an eye shield while sleeping to prevent you from unconsciously rubbing your eyes. This can last for a few weeks after the surgical Lasik in Singapore operation.
Why is it that I am told not to wear contact lenses before taking the preoperative exam?
Usually, doctors will recommend their patients to discontinue wearing contact lenses prior to preoperative exams. Just like your wristwatch can leave an imprint on your wrist after wearing it for hours, contact lenses can also cause a change on the shape of your corneas. If you get your eyes examined right after you remove your contact lenses, the eye tests may give inaccurate results, and thus negatively influencing your surgical outcome.