LASIK Eye Surgery in Singapore
Goodbye, Glasses!
Glasses and contact lenses are only able to provide temporary vision correction. Some find them inconvenient when playing sports, travelling, or during daily activities.
On the other hand, LASIK is able to grant 24/7 visual freedom, allowing you to see clearly from the moment you wake up.
What is LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of laser eye surgery designed to correct common vision problems such as:
The procedure reshapes the cornea—the clear front part of the eye—so that light entering the eye is properly focused onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision.
Benefits of LASIK include:
Potential for long-lasting vision correction
Relatively quick recovery time
Noticeable improvement in vision within a day or two
Reduces reliance on glasses or contact lenses
Is LASIK Eye Surgery Suitable For Me?
LASIK is suitable for the majority of people who:
Are over 18 years of age
Have a stable eye prescription
Is LASIK Safe?
LASIK is an FDA-approved procedure that has been performed worldwide for over two decades. It is known to be safe, predictable, and accurate in correcting common vision problems.
Serious complications are rare, and modern technology has made the procedure even safer over the years. However, as with any surgery, it is important to undergo a thorough assessment with an eye specialist to determine if you are a suitable candidate.
How Much Does LASIK Eye Surgery Cost in Singapore?
Factors That May Influence Cost
- Type of LASIK Procedure – Conventional LASIK, bladeless LASIK, or customised treatments (such as wavefront-guided procedures) differ in cost as they use different technologies.
- Degree of Refractive Error – Higher levels of myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism may require more tailored treatment.
- Diagnostic and Laser Technology – Imaging tests and laser platforms are part of ensuring safety and accuracy.
- Post-Operative Care – Follow-up visits are not included. Enhancement (if required) may involve additional fees.
Insurance and Medisave
LASIK is considered a cosmetic procedure and is generally not covered under Medisave or standard insurance policies. In limited cases—such as when there is a significant refractive imbalance between the eyes, or when patients are unable to tolerate glasses or contact lenses—exceptions may apply. Eligibility can be assessed during consultation.
Why Choose APEC for LASIK Surgery?
At Asia Pacific Eye Centre, we provide different types of laser vision correction procedures. The most suitable option depends on your eye health, prescription, and lifestyle needs.
- Involves creating a thin flap on the corneal surface, followed by reshaping with an excimer laser
- Widely used to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism
- Uses femtosecond laser technology with wavefront-guided mapping for a customised treatment plan
- Can address subtle optical imperfections that standard LASIK does not treat
- Recognised for its reliability in high-performance settings such as aviation and space
- A minimally invasive procedure performed through a small corneal incision (about 2–3 mm)
- Removes a lenticule (a small piece of tissue) within the cornea to reshape it
- May reduce dry eye symptoms and is often suitable for higher prescriptions or patients seeking a flapless option
Possible Risks and Side Effects
As with any surgery, LASIK has potential risks. These are rare and will be discussed in detail during your pre-LASIK assessment.
Common side effects (usually temporary):
- Dry eyes
- Glare or halos, especially at night
- Fluctuating vision in the early healing stage
Less common but more serious complications:
- Corneal infection
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
At APEC, we make sure to do a thorough consultation, understanding your lifestyle and medical needs, so that any risks to your health can be avoided or minimised.
The LASIK Eye Surgery Process at APEC
| PROCEDURES |
PRICE FROM (excl. GST) |
PRICE FROM (incl. GST) |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-LASIK Eye Screening | $197 | $215 |
| Pre-SMILE Pro Eye Screening | $197 | $215 |
| Standard LASIK (per eye) | $1,400 | $1,526 |
| ILASIK Wavefront Customized (per eye) | $1,688 | $1,840 |
| ReLEx SMILE Pro (per eye) | $2,600 | $2,834 |
The Pre-LASIK Assessment can be done any day from Monday to Saturday.
For contact lens wearers, please lay off your lenses at least for 5 days (soft lenses) to 2 weeks (hard lenses) before the assessment. This is to ensure accuracy of your eye test results and surgery. During the pre-LASIK assessment, you will undergo a series of eye tests to determine your suitability for the procedure. The doctor will discuss the different treatment options with you based on your eye condition and your preferences.
If you are found to be suitable for LASIK, the next step is to arrange a date for the surgery. Surgery slots are available every Wednesday morning and Friday morning.
When you first arrive on the day of surgery, you will be prepped – a nurse will clean your eyes, apply numbing eye drops, and you will change into a surgical gown. Next, it’s time for the big moment. Not to worry, a LASIK surgery only takes 15-20 minutes, you’ll be done in no time!
After LASIK, you will be brought to the recovery room to rest for 20-30 minutes. Once you are rested, it’s time to head home. It is best to have someone to accompany you. For the first 6 hours after LASIK, your eyes may have a “sandy” feeling and your vision will be blurry – this is perfectly normal. As more time passes, your vision will gradually get clearer. In most cases, you’ll be able to resume daily activities on the very next day!
You are strongly advised to come for 1-day, 1-week, 1-month and 3-6 months follow-up visits. This is so that the doctor can monitor your recovery process and ensure that everything goes smoothly. Once you have been given the “clear” by your surgeon, you’re good to go. Enjoy your newfound clear vision, be free to do the things that you love!
Our LASIK Eye Specialists
Dr. Lee Hung Ming
Senior Consultant & Eye Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), M.Med (Ophth)
FRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (Ophth)
A highly-respected eye specialist in Singapore with 20+ years of experience, Dr. Lee has performed 20,000+ cataract and LASIK procedures. He received the ACE Award for surgical training excellence in the Asia-Pacific region.
Dr. Tan Yar Li
Senior Consultant & Eye Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), M.Med (Ophth)
MRCSEd (Ophth), FAMS (Ophth)
Dr. Tan was one of the first few eye surgeons in Singapore to perform Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery. She’s a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist with extensive experience in glaucoma, cataract, and refractive surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does LASIK surgery take?
The laser procedure itself takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
When can I go back to work after the LASIK surgery?
Most patients can return to work the next day.
How long will the results of eye LASIK surgery last?
For most patients, LASIK results are permanent.
What eye conditions can LASIK correct?
LASIK is commonly used to correct myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), and astigmatism. It works by reshaping the cornea to allow light to focus properly on the retina.
Can I get LASIK if I have a high degree of myopia or astigmatism?
In many cases, LASIK can correct higher prescriptions, but suitability depends on factors such as corneal thickness, eye health, and stability of your prescription. During your pre-LASIK assessment, detailed tests will determine if LASIK, iLASIK, or alternatives like ReLEx SMILE Pro are appropriate.
What preparations are required before a LASIK consultation or assessment?
- Stop wearing soft contact lenses for at least five days (rigid gas permeable lenses may require two to three weeks).
- Avoid eye makeup on the day of the assessment.
- Bring your glasses or prescription details.
How long does the pre-LASIK assessment take?
- Typically, a full assessment takes about 1.5 hours to 2 hours. This includes vision tests, corneal scans, and consultations with the eye specialist.
When can I expect my vision to stabilise?
- Most patients notice clearer vision within 24–48 hours after surgery. Vision usually stabilises within one to two months, depending on individual healing response.
What activities should I avoid after LASIK?
- Swimming, hot tubs, and water sports for at least one month.
- Strenuous exercise or contact sports for one week.
- Rubbing or pressing on the eyes during the initial healing period.
Will my eyes be permanently weakened after the procedure?
No. LASIK reshapes the cornea but does not generally weaken the eye when performed on suitable candidates. We will ensure that enough corneal thickness remains to maintain long-term stability.
Will I still need glasses or contact lenses after LASIK?
Most patients achieve good vision without corrective eyewear. However, reading glasses may still be needed later in life due to presbyopia (age-related near vision changes).
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