If you’ve been thinking about laser vision correction but haven’t quite taken the plunge, you likely have a list of questions. You’re not alone. These are the questions ophthalmologists across Singapore hear most often from patients considering their options.
1. Am I a suitable candidate?
Candidacy depends on several factors: your prescription (type and degree), the thickness and shape of your cornea, your age, whether your prescription has been stable, overall eye health, and certain systemic conditions. There’s no way to know for certain without a comprehensive pre-operative assessment. That said, the majority of healthy adults with glasses or contact lenses are suitable candidates for at least one type of procedure.
2. Does the procedure hurt?
Anaesthetic eye drops are used before the procedure, so most patients report feeling pressure but not pain during the treatment. There may be some mild discomfort, sensitivity to light, or a gritty sensation in the hours after the procedure. For SMILE Pro specifically, many patients report less post-operative discomfort compared to LASIK, due to the absence of a corneal flap.
3. How long does the procedure take?
The laser treatment itself is very brief, often under a minute per eye for SMILE Pro. Total time in the procedure room (including preparation, positioning, and the treatment) is typically 15 to 30 minutes. You’ll need someone to drive you home afterwards.
4. What if my vision regresses over time?
Some patients experience mild regression, a partial return of myopia, over the years following treatment. This is more likely in patients with higher prescriptions. Enhancement procedures are available for suitable patients. It’s worth discussing long-term expectations and the possibility of retreatment with your surgeon during your consultation.
5. What are the risks?
Like any medical procedure, laser vision correction carries some risks. These include dry eye (more common with LASIK than SMILE Pro), glare and halos (particularly at night, usually temporary), undercorrection or overcorrection, and in rare cases, infection or more significant complications. Your ophthalmologist will go through these in detail during your consultation, along with the specific risk profile for your eyes.
6. Is it covered by insurance or Medisave in Singapore?
As of current guidelines, laser vision correction procedures such as LASIK and SMILE Pro are generally considered elective procedures and are not claimable under Medisave or standard health insurance policies in Singapore. Some integrated shield plans may offer riders for specific conditions — it’s worth checking directly with your insurer. Clinic staff can advise on payment options and financing plans.
7. What should I do next if I’m interested?
The best next step is to book a comprehensive consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist in Singapore. This assessment typically takes around one to two hours and includes a range of tests to determine your suitability and identify the most appropriate procedure for your specific eyes. Many clinics offer initial consultations that give you all the information you need to make a considered decision — without any pressure to proceed.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Procedure suitability must be determined by a qualified ophthalmologist following comprehensive assessment.
