YOU MAY NEVER NEED READING GLASSES

In Lasik, any corneal tissue that is removed is discarded.  But in Refractive Lenticule Extraction (Relex), lens-shaped pieces are cut out and removed either through a flap (as in Lasik) or a keyhole incision.  Researchers here are currently studying if the removed pieces can be stored and later used to correct presbyopia, an age-related condition where you lose the ability to focus on near objects.  Their findings will be out later this year, says Professor Donald Tan, medical director of the Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC).

IT IS SAFER AND FASTER

Unlike Lasik, where two lasers are used, Relex requires just one.  Because it is also faster than Lasik (it takes just 30 seconds), it’s less risky and more comfortable to undergo.  The suction on the eyes during the procedure is gentler, too.  And if you opt for the keyhole incision, post-surgery pain will be reduced as the surface cuts on your eyes are smaller.

YOU GET BETTER RESULTS

So far, all Relex patients have reported near-perfect post-treatment vision, compared to 85.8 per cent of Lasik cases.  Those with high myopia (between 500 and 1,000 degrees) have also reported more accurate eyesight than those who have undergone Lasik.

Relex costs between $2,300 and $2,800 per eye and Bladeless Lasik costs between $1,195 and $1,535 per eye.  Prices include post-operative care and exclude GST. 

Relex is only available in SNEC.  For more information, call the SNEC at 6322 8891.

OTHER OPTIONS

If you’re unsuitable for Lasik or Relex, your doctor may suggest these procedures.

Epikeratome Laser-Assisted Keratomileusis (Epi-Lasik) and Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

These types of surgery are for those with very thin corneas.  In Epi-Lasik, the flap cut out is much thinner than the one in Lasik, and in PRK, there’s no flap involved.

Epi-Lasik costs $1,800 per eye and PRK costs $975 per eye.  Prices include post-operative care and exclude GST.

Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)

Lasik and Relex cannot treat very high myopia.  So ICL, where corrective lenses are inserted into the eyes, is ideal for those with short-sightedness of 1,600 degrees or more.

ICL costs between $4,450 and $5,090 per eye.  The price excludes both post-operative care and GST.