Eye Surgeons @ Novena 38 Irrawaddy Road
#09-28
Singapore 329563
Are You a Candidate for LASIK?
MBBS (S’pore), FRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (S’pore), FAMS (Ophth)
What Makes You Eligible for LASIK Surgery?
When evaluating whether LASIK is the right choice, an ophthalmologist will carefully assess several criteria to ensure the procedure is safe and likely to deliver effective results. You may be a good candidate for LASIK surgery if:
You Are Within the Ideal Age Range
Patients must be at least 21 years old to undergo LASIK, as the eyes need to be fully developed and prescriptions stable. The ideal candidates are often in their mid-20s to late 30s, when vision has generally stabilised and age-related changes are less of a concern.
From the age of 40 onwards, presbyopia—a natural decline in near focusing ability—often begins to appear. Since LASIK does not correct presbyopia, individuals in this age group may still need reading glasses for close tasks.
For patients over 60, cataracts become more common and need to be assessed before LASIK is considered. In some cases, cataract surgery may be a more suitable option.
You Have a Stable Vision Prescription
Your prescription should remain unchanged for at least 12 months before surgery. If your myopia is still progressing, LASIK may not provide lasting results. Unstable vision could lead to the need for additional corrections in the future. Regular eye exams can help determine if your vision has stabilised.
Your Prescription Falls Within LASIK Range
LASIK works best for the following prescription ranges:
- Myopia (Nearsightedness): Up to -10.00 Dioptres
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Up to +6.00 Dioptres
- Astigmatism: Up to 6.00 Dioptres
If you are not suitable for LASIK, there are other effective alternatives such as ReLEx SMILE, advanced surface ablation techniques (TransPRK, LASEK, EpiLASIK), or implantable contact lens (ICL) insertion.
You Are Not Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can temporarily alter your vision and corneal shape. It is best to wait at least six months after childbirth or breastfeeding before considering LASIK to ensure accurate results and stable vision.
You Have No Serious Eye Conditions
Certain eye diseases, like keratoconus (progressive corneal thinning) or glaucoma (optic nerve damage due to high eye pressure), can increase the risk of complications. A comprehensive eye exam will rule out these conditions before surgery.
You Are in Good General Health
Medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) can affect healing and increase the risk of complications. These must be discussed with your doctor during the initial consultation.
You Have Adequate Corneal Thickness
LASIK reshapes the cornea, so it needs to be thick enough to safely remove tissue during the procedure. Thin corneas may require alternative treatments to avoid risks like corneal ectasia (weakening and bulging of the cornea).
You Have the Appropriate Pupil Size
Excessively large pupils may increase the chances of experiencing glare, halos or starbursts in low-light conditions after surgery. Your ophthalmologist will measure your pupils to determine suitability.
You Have Realistic Expectations
While LASIK can dramatically improve vision, it may not eliminate the need for glasses. Some people may still need them for activities like night driving or reading. Clear communication with your doctor helps align expectations with achievable outcomes.
Find Out If You Qualify for LASIK
LASIK surgery offers a promising solution for those seeking to improve their vision and reduce dependence on corrective lenses. If you are considering LASIK as an option, the first step is to consult an eye specialist to determine your eligibility.
Dr Cordelia Chan is a trusted ophthalmologist who offers personalised assessments to help you make an informed decision about your vision correction options. A consultation will involve a thorough examination of your eyes, including tests to assess corneal thickness, pupil size and overall eye health. To schedule your LASIK suitability evaluation, contact us today.
Helpful Links:
- Read Dr Chan’s research publication, “Comparison of corneal sensitivity, tear function and corneal staining following laser in situ keratomileusis with two femtosecond laser platforms”: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3616690/
- Read the abstract of Dr Chan’s research publication, “Eighteen-year prospective audit of LASIK outcomes for myopia in 53,731 eyes”: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30355717/
MBBS (S’pore), FRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (S’pore), FAMS (Ophth)
Dr Cordelia Chan is an established ophthalmologist in Singapore, with decades of experience in cornea and refractive surgery. She cares for both adults and children, offering comprehensive expertise across a wide range of eye conditions. Dr Chan began her training in 1993 and spent 21 years at the Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC), where she was Head of the Refractive Surgery Service.
Among the first in Singapore to perform bladeless LASIK, she is recognised for her expertise and strong commitment to patient care and safety. Today, she combines advanced diagnostic technology with a personalised approach to deliver the best possible outcomes for her patients.
Contact No. : | +65 6690 4154 |
| Email : | novena@eyesurgeons.com.sg |