LASIK Eye Surgery - Types, Cost, Factors, and More

For those looking for a more lasting solution, LASIK eye surgery offers a life-changing opportunity. It is a safe and advanced procedure that uses laser technology to correct vision problems effectively. 

This article will explore the LASIK eye surgery cost in the UAE along with other essential details to know before considering this transformative procedure.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for any queries or concerns.

Types of LASIK Eye Surgery in the UAE

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular and effective solution for vision correction. It is widely available in the UAE — advanced technologies and experienced ophthalmologists have positioned the country as a hub for high-quality LASIK procedures. 

Here's an overview of the types of LASIK surgeries available in the UAE and their distinctive features — 

1. Traditional LASIK (Conventional LASIK)

• Description: The most common form of LASIK, where a microkeratome or femtosecond laser creates a thin corneal flap

The cornea is reshaped using an excimer laser to correct refractive errors

• Advantages: Quick recovery, minimal discomfort, and high effectiveness for moderate vision correction
• Suitability: Best for individuals with moderate myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism

1. Custom LASIK (Wavefront-Guided LASIK)

• Description: A more advanced procedure that uses wavefront technology to form a detailed map of the eye’s unique imperfections — it is used for personalised treatment
• Advantages: Superior visual clarity, reduced risks of glare and halos, and correction of higher-order aberrations
• Suitability: Recommended for patients seeking highly precise results

1. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

• Description: In PRK, the corneal epithelium is removed — the excimer laser reshapes the underlying cornea without creating a flap
• Advantages: Lower risk of flap complications and equally effective as LASIK in vision correction
• Suitability: Ideal for individuals with thinner corneas or those prone to trauma

1. Femto LASIK

• Description: Uses a femtosecond laser to create a highly precise corneal flap, followed by corneal reshaping with an excimer laser
• Advantages: Enhanced precision, reduced complications and faster healing compared to traditional LASIK
• Suitability: Ideal for patients looking for advanced laser correction options

1. SMILE LASIK (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)

• Description: A minimally invasive procedure where a femtosecond laser creates a lenticule (a small piece of tissue) within the cornea, which is then extracted through a small incision
• Advantages: Less invasive, no need for a corneal flap, reduced risk of dry eyes, and faster recovery
• Suitability: Best for correcting myopia and astigmatism

1. Contoura Vision LASIK

• Description: This advanced form of LASIK maps over 22,000 points on the cornea, providing exceptional precision and personalised treatment
• Advantages: Reduces corneal irregularities, provides sharper vision, and improves overall outcomes
• Suitability: Ideal for individuals looking for top-tier precision in vision correction

What is Included in LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK eye surgery in the UAE generally encompasses the following elements — 

1. Pre-Surgery Consultation and Evaluation

• Comprehensive Eye Examination: Includes tests for corneal thickness, pupil size, refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism) and eye health to confirm suitability for LASIK
• Corneal Mapping: Advanced imaging techniques, such as corneal topography and wavefront analysis, are used to create a detailed map of the cornea
• Personalised Treatment Plan: Based on the results, a tailored plan is prepared, considering the patient’s unique vision needs

1. The Surgical Procedure

• Corneal Flap Creation: A femtosecond laser or microkeratome is used to create a thin flap on the cornea
• Laser Reshaping: An excimer laser reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors — this step is guided by the detailed corneal map for precision
• Flap Repositioning: The flap is carefully placed back without stitches, allowing it to naturally adhere during recovery

1. Post-Surgery Care and Follow-Up

• Immediate Monitoring: After the surgery, the patient’s eyes are monitored for any immediate issues, while protective shields are provided to prevent accidental touching
• Medication: Includes prescription eye drops to prevent infection, reduce inflammation, and alleviate dryness
• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups are scheduled to track the healing process and for optimal vision correction

1. Additional Inclusions

• Patient Support: Access to pre and post-operative counseling, including detailed instructions on care and recovery
• Warranty or Enhancement Packages: Some clinics in the UAE offer free enhancements or adjustments if required within a specific period post-surgery
• Comfortable Facilities: Most of the leading UAE clinics provide state-of-the-art facilities for a stress-free experience during the procedure

Average Cost of LASIK Eye Surgery in the UAE

The cost of LASIK eye surgery in the UAE depends on the type of procedure, clinic reputation, and the technology used. 

Here is a general overview — 

Factors Influencing LASIK Eye Surgery Costs

1. Type of Procedure: Advanced options like SMILE and Femto LASIK are more expensive due to the use of cutting-edge technology
2. Clinic Reputation: High-end clinics with experienced surgeons often charge more
3. Technology Used: The precision of the equipment, such as femtosecond lasers and wavefront technology, can impact costs
4. Location: Prices can vary slightly between Emirates like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah
5. Inclusions: Costs might also get impacted due to consultation, follow-up appointments, and any enhancements

Does Health Insurance Cover LASIK Eye Surgery in the UAE?

Health Insurance UAE typically does not cover LASIK eye surgery. 

The LASIK eye procedure is often categorised as elective or cosmetic surgery, making it ineligible for coverage under most standard insurance policies. However, an exception may be considered.

Why is LASIK Not Covered by Insurance?

1. Elective Nature: LASIK is generally performed to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. While these conditions can be managed with glasses or contact lenses, LASIK is seen as a lifestyle-enhancing procedure rather than a medically necessary one.
2. Cosmetic Classification: Many insurers in the UAE classify LASIK as a cosmetic surgery since it improves vision but does not treat a medical condition or disease.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Severe Vision Impairment: If LASIK is deemed necessary due to severe medical conditions or complications that significantly impact daily life, some policies might provide coverage.

What to Do if You're Considering LASIK

Check with Your Provider: Review your insurance policy or contact your insurer to understand if any part of the LASIK procedure is covered.

How to Maintain Good Eye Health?

Taking care of your eyes is essential for overall well-being. Here are some easy yet effective tips to maintain good eye health— 

1. Eat a Healthy Diet: Include foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Some examples include leafy greens, fish, carrots, and citrus fruits. Also, stay hydrated to keep your eyes moist.
2. Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection. You can also use polarized lenses to reduce glare.
3. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: When using screens for extended periods, take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away. This reduces eye strain and fatigue.
4. Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and damage to the optic nerve. Quitting smoking promotes better eye health.
5. Protect Your Eyes at Work: Use protective eyewear if you’re exposed to hazardous materials or activities. Additionally, ensure good lighting and ergonomic screen positioning to reduce strain.
6. Keep Your Eyes Clean: Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent irritation and infection. Another tip is to wash your hands frequently — this reduces the risk of transferring bacteria to your eyes.
7. Get Regular Eye Check-Ups: Visit an eye specialist at least once a year to monitor your eye health and detect any issues early. This is especially important for people over 40 or with a family history of eye diseases.
8. Avoid Prolonged Screen Time: Limit screen usage and blink frequently to keep your eyes lubricated. You can adjust brightness and use anti-glare screens for better comfort.
9. Sleep Well: Adequate rest ensures your eyes are refreshed and less prone to dryness and strain.

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