Refractive Surgery (LASIK, SMILE, PRK) Treatment | Cost & Recovery

OVERVIEW

The primary goal of refractive surgery is to permanently correct refractive errors by precisely altering the eye's focusing power. Techniques such as LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) use sophisticated laser technology to reshape the cornea, improving vision. DivinHeal connects patients with top ophthalmic surgeons and accredited hospitals, ensuring access to cutting-edge procedures for optimal visual outcomes.

PROCEDURE

Refractive surgery typically involves several key steps: 1. Pre-operative Assessment: A comprehensive eye exam is performed to measure corneal thickness, pupil size, eye pressure, and detect any underlying eye conditions. This determines suitability and the best procedure (LASIK, SMILE, or PRK). 2. Anesthetic Eye Drops: Numbing eye drops are administered to ensure comfort during the procedure. 3. Eye Stabilization: An eyelid holder is used to keep the eye open, and a suction ring is applied to stabilize the eye and prevent movement during the laser application. 4. Corneal Reshaping (Procedure Specific): LASIK: A femtosecond laser creates a thin corneal flap. The flap is gently lifted, and an excimer laser precisely reshapes the underlying corneal tissue. The flap is then carefully repositioned. SMILE: A femtosecond laser creates a small, lenticule-shaped piece of tissue inside the cornea. A tiny incision (2-4mm) is made, and the surgeon extracts the lenticule, thereby reshaping the cornea. * PRK: The outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed. An excimer laser then reshapes the corneal surface directly. 5. Post-Procedure Care: For PRK, a bandage contact lens is placed to aid healing. For all procedures, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are applied. Patients are typically discharged the same day with specific instructions for post-operative care.

BENEFITS

Freedom from Glasses/Contact Lenses: Significantly reduces or eliminates the need for daily corrective eyewear.
Improved Quality of Life: Enhances convenience for sports, travel, and daily activities.
Rapid Visual Improvement: Many patients experience clearer vision within 24-48 hours.
Long-lasting Results: The corneal reshaping is permanent, providing stable vision for many years.
High Success Rates: Modern refractive surgeries boast very high success rates, with most patients achieving 20/20 or 20/25 vision.
Enhanced Self-Confidence: Eliminates aesthetic concerns related to wearing glasses.

RECOVERY

Recovery Time and Tips for Refractive Surgery

Recovery after refractive surgery is generally swift, though it varies slightly by procedure:

LASIK: Visual recovery is typically very fast, with significant improvement within 24-48 hours. Mild irritation, dryness, or light sensitivity may occur for a few days. Full stabilization can take a few weeks.
SMILE: Patients often experience rapid visual recovery similar to LASIK. Dry eye symptoms are generally less common.
PRK: Visual recovery is slower, as the epithelial layer needs to regrow, which can take 3-5 days. Blurred vision and discomfort are common during this initial phase. Full vision clarity may take several weeks to months.

General Recovery Tips:

Follow Eye Drop Schedule: Diligently use prescribed antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and lubricating eye drops.
Avoid Eye Rubbing: This is crucial to prevent complications, especially for LASIK flaps.
Rest and Protect Your Eyes: Avoid strenuous activities, swimming, hot tubs, and dusty environments for a few weeks. Wear sunglasses outdoors.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Essential for monitoring healing and ensuring optimal results.
Limit Screen Time: Initially, give your eyes a break from prolonged computer or phone use.

DivinHeal's care coordinators will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout your recovery, ensuring a smooth transition to your new, clear vision.

WHAT WE TREAT

Refractive surgery effectively treats:

Myopia (Nearsightedness): Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Difficulty seeing near objects clearly.
Astigmatism: Blurred vision at all distances due to an irregularly shaped cornea.
Presbyopia (Age-related farsightedness): Though primarily treated with multifocal IOLs, some laser procedures can offer partial correction.

PREPARATION

Proper preparation is vital for a successful refractive surgery outcome: 1. Stop Contact Lens Use: Discontinue wearing soft contact lenses for at least 1-2 weeks, and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses for 3-4 weeks (or longer as advised by your surgeon) prior to your initial consultation and the procedure. This allows your cornea to return to its natural shape. 2. Comprehensive Eye Exam: Undergo a thorough pre-operative eye examination to confirm your suitability, measure your refractive error accurately, and assess corneal health. 3. Discuss Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. 4. Arrange Transportation: You will not be able to drive immediately after the procedure, so arrange for someone to take you home. 5. Avoid Eye Makeup: Refrain from using eye makeup, lotions, or perfumes on the day of the surgery to prevent potential infections. 6. Understand Risks & Benefits: Have a detailed discussion with your surgeon about the potential risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of the procedure.

RISKS

While refractive surgery is generally safe, potential risks and side effects, though rare, can include: 1. Dry Eyes: A common temporary side effect, often managed with lubricating eye drops. 2. Glare, Halos, Starbursts: Especially at night, these visual disturbances can occur, usually diminishing over time. 3. Under-correction or Over-correction: Resulting in residual refractive error, potentially requiring glasses, contact lenses, or a retreatment (enhancement) procedure. 4. Flap Complications (LASIK only): Rare issues such as irregular flaps, dislodged flaps, or epithelial ingrowth. 5. Infection or Inflammation: Very rare, but serious complications that can affect vision. 6. Corneal Ectasia: A very rare weakening and bulging of the cornea, especially in individuals with pre-existing corneal weakness. 7. Regression: A gradual return of some of the refractive error over time.

JOURNEY

Your journey to clear vision with DivinHeal begins with a comprehensive pre-operative eye examination to determine suitability for refractive surgery. Once a procedure like LASIK, SMILE, or PRK is recommended, DivinHeal assists with seamless travel, accommodation, and hospital admission. The procedure itself is typically quick, followed by a short post-operative observation period. Recovery involves a few days of rest and prescribed eye drops, with vision progressively stabilizing over weeks. DivinHeal provides continuous support from initial consultation through the entire recovery phase, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

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