Are you tired of wearing glasses or contact lenses? If you’re considering LASIK or SMILE eye surgery to correct your vision, you’re not alone. These popular laser eye surgeries have helped millions achieve clearer vision, but understanding the details—from procedures to costs—is crucial before making a decision. Here’s everything you need to know about LASIK and SMILE in Hong Kong.
What Are LASIK and SMILE?
Both LASIK and SMILE are laser eye surgeries designed to correct refractive errors like myopia (short-sightedness), astigmatism, and hyperopia (long-sightedness).
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis):
Approved in 1998, LASIK reshapes the cornea using a laser to improve vision. It’s a quick, painless procedure that takes about 20 minutes.SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction):
A newer, minimally invasive procedure approved in 2016, SMILE uses a laser to create a small lens-shaped disc (lenticule) inside the cornea, which is then removed through a tiny incision. The procedure takes just 5 minutes.
Who Is Eligible for LASIK or SMILE?
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for these surgeries. Here’s what you need to qualify:
- Stable Vision: Your eyeglass prescription should remain unchanged for at least 1 year.
- Age: You must be over 18 years old, with the ideal age being over 21.
- No Active Eye Conditions: Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, or severe dry eyes may disqualify you.
- Not Pregnant or Nursing: Hormonal changes during pregnancy or breastfeeding can affect vision stability.
- No Keratoconus: This condition causes thinning of the cornea and is a contraindication for surgery.
SMILE may be a better option if you have thin corneas or lead an active lifestyle, as it doesn’t involve creating a corneal flap like LASIK does.
The Procedures: What to Expect
LASIK:
- Your eye is numbed with anesthetic drops.
- A thin flap is created in the cornea using a laser or mechanical tool.
- The flap is lifted, and a laser reshapes the cornea to correct vision.
- The flap is repositioned, and no stitches are needed.
SMILE:
- Your eye is numbed with anesthetic drops.
- A laser creates a lenticule inside the cornea.
- The lenticule is removed through a small incision, which heals naturally.
Both procedures are painless, though some patients may experience mild discomfort afterward.
Recovery and Results
- LASIK: Vision improvement is immediate, with most patients returning to normal activities within 1-2 days. Full recovery takes 3-6 months.
- SMILE: Vision improvement may take slightly longer, but most patients achieve 20/40 vision or better within 6 months.
Both surgeries offer permanent results, though some patients may still need glasses as they age.
Possible Risks and Side Effects
While rare, potential side effects include:
- Dry eyes: More common with LASIK.
- Visual disturbances: Such as glare, halos, or sensitivity to light.
- Undercorrection or overcorrection: May require a second procedure.
- Eye infections or vision loss: Extremely rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases.
Costs of LASIK and SMILE in Hong Kong
Both surgeries are only available in the private healthcare sector. Here’s a breakdown of costs (as of July 2024):
| Provider | Pre-Op Exam Fees | SMILE (Both Eyes) | LASIK (Both Eyes) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Teresa’s Hospital | HK$800 | – | HK$19,800 | 5 post-op exams included |
| St. Paul’s Hospital | HK$800 | – | HK$21,000 | 5 post-op exams included |
| HKSH Refractive Surgery Centre | HK$990 | HK$22,000 | HK$22,000 | 5 post-op exams included |
| CMER SMILE Laser Center | HK$100 | HK$29,000 | HK$22,000 | Includes enhancement within 2 years |
| Clarity SMILE LASIK Centre | HK$100 (SMILE) | HK$27,800 | HK$19,800 | Includes enhancement within 1 year |
| Hong Kong Laser Eye Centre | HK$100 | HK$29,800 | HK$21,000 | 5 post-op exams included |
Insurance Coverage for LASIK and SMILE
Most insurance providers consider LASIK and SMILE elective procedures and do not cover the costs. However, Navigator Insurance Broker works with select providers that offer coverage up to HKD 10,530 for refractive eye surgery.
If you’re considering LASIK or SMILE, it’s worth exploring your insurance options to offset the costs. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you find the right coverage.
Why Choose Navigator Insurance Broker?
Navigator Insurance Broker provides unbiased advice and access to a wide range of insurance options tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for coverage for elective procedures like LASIK or comprehensive health insurance, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
