PRESCRIPTION glasses and contact lenses are widely used but they do have their limitations in terms of power, durability and practicality. In addition, they can be a hindrance for activities such as hiking, scuba diving, sports and travelling. Hence, laser eye treatment is the option for people who want more flexibility in their lifestyles.
Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, ophthalmologist specialising in cornea, external eye disease and laser vision correction Dr Umi Kalthum Md Noh shares about laser eye treatments in Malaysia and elaborates on the differences of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery, and small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) procedure.
“Most patients today are rarely apprehensive about the procedure, and those who are interested have actually been considering it for at least a few years.
“I feel that the internet has played a big role in that. There are so many videos and anecdotes available for patients to find out more about the procedure before seeking consultation from a specialist.”
Both LASIK and PRK are safe and effective surgeries that change how an eye reflects light by reshaping the cornea. The PRK procedure involves the removal of the outer corneal layer first which will regrow over time. With LASIK, a small flap is made to allow the surgeon to make corrections to the inner cornea before being placed back in its original position.
A SMILE procedure minimises changes to the outer corneal layer to maintain corneal integrity. Lasers are used to sculpt a disc-shaped piece of cornea, known as a lenticule, right under the eye’s surface. A small incision is then made to give surgeons access to this disc to reshape the cornea accordingly.
'It is essential for patients to seek a medical professional to clear any doubts before committing to surgery, as each person will have individual considerations and circumstances that could affect the outcome of laser eye treatment,’ says Dr Umi.
As there are always considerations for any procedure, Dr Umi encourages those considering eye surgeries to always consult a specialist first to better understand the options available to them.
“It is essential for patients to seek a medical professional to clear any doubts before committing to surgery, as each person will have individual considerations and circumstances that could affect the outcome of laser eye treatment.”
Understanding the treatment better
One of the main benefits of undergoing laser vision correction is its long-lasting and stable corrective effects. While there is a misconception that treatment grants complete immunity to minor power changes and age-related risk of developing cataracts, Dr Umi reassures that these changes tend to be minor and are manageable through follow-up medical enhancement.
“In most cases, the patient's eye power won't jump so high unless they already have a pre-existing ocular condition. It is possible but uncommon that a patient will require further enhancement after visual correction.”
Patients may worry about the symptoms of glare and light sensitivities post-surgery. However, Dr Umi explains that such issues are temporary and will naturally resolve within a month once the patients’ visual system has had time to readjust.
From there, patients are free to resume their active lifestyles and enjoy near-perfect vision.
Improved eye care
While patients would be eager to undergo laser vision correction, Dr Umi highlights the seriousness of remaining diligent throughout screening checks, surgical procedure and recovery period, on the part of both patient and surgeon.
“The key is in the selection criteria for each patient. There are a few factors to look out for such as infections, as well as corneal stability so that the procedure won’t result in an abnormal shape. There is also the risk of pre-existing medical and eye conditions which could affect the final result.”
From consultation until surgery, patients must undergo multiple screening and consultation sessions to ensure that all parameters are in order to ensure the patient’s safety.
Patients are also prescribed antibiotics and eye protection (sunglasses and eye shield) following the surgery in order to reduce eyestrain and risk of infection.
Due to advancements in science, the field of laser eye surgery has progressed greatly over the last several decades, allowing surgeons to perform more precise operations and greatly improving the safety of the patient.
Through laser vision corrections, individuals across Malaysia partake in everyday activities such as sports, reading and late night drives without the hassle of carrying spectacles and putting on uncomfortable contact lenses. It is clear that these procedures have enabled many patients to experience the wonderful sights that life offers to the fullest with their renewed vision.
For more information, contact 03-7491 6466 or WhatsApp 019 229 8672.
