What is Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery has evolved significantly, offering various procedures tailored to individual eye health and vision goals. The most widely known of these are LASIK and SMILE.
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LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis)
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LASIK is the most well-known laser eye surgery worldwide. The procedure involves creating a thin flap on the cornea's surface, which is then lifted to allow a precise excimer laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. The flap is then repositioned, where it naturally re-adheres, leading to a quick visual recovery. LASIK is a highly effective option for a wide range of prescriptions.
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SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
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SMILE, known academically as Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction (KLEx), is a more advanced, minimally invasive laser surgery. Using a femtosecond laser, a small, disc-shaped piece of corneal tissue (called a lenticule) is created just beneath the corneal surface. This lenticule is then removed through a tiny, keyhole-sized incision. Because the procedure is flapless, it preserves more of the cornea’s structural integrity and often results in a faster recovery with potentially fewer side effects.
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Conditions Corrected by Laser Eye Surgery
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Myopia (Nearsightedness): Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
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Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Difficulty seeing near objects clearly.
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Astigmatism: Blurred vision at all distances due to an irregularly shaped cornea.
Laser Eye Surgery Procedures
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Procedure Duration & Anesthesia
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The laser portion of the surgery is very quick, often lasting only a few minutes per eye. The entire procedure, including preparation, typically takes less than an hour. Anesthetic eye drops are used to ensure the procedure is completely painless.
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Pain During Surgery
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Patients typically report feeling a sensation of pressure during the procedure but experience no pain. The anesthetic eye drops effectively numb the eye's surface, ensuring a comfortable experience.
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Post-Surgery Vision & Precautions
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You will likely experience a significant improvement in vision immediately. However, your sight will continue to stabilize over the first few days to weeks. You will be provided with specific post-operative care instructions, including the use of eye drops and precautions to protect your eyes during the healing period.
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Risks of Laser Eye Surgery
While laser eye surgery is a highly effective and safe procedure, it's important for patients to be aware of potential risks. Our experts will discuss these in detail during your consultation
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Detailed Potential Risks
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Infection: An extremely rare but serious complication.
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Dry Eye: A common side effect, often temporary, that can be managed with eye drops. Some patients may experience persistent dry eye due to corneal nerve damage during the procedure.
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Regression: The vision may gradually revert to its pre-surgery state over time.
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Under/Over-Correction: The initial correction may not be perfect, resulting in residual nearsightedness (under-correction) or farsightedness (over-correction). Both are possibilities, though rare with modern techniques.
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Ectasia: An extremely rare but serious complication where the cornea weakens and bulges forward, causing vision to become distorted.
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Corneal Flap Complications: (For LASIK) Rare issues can occur with the corneal flap, such as displacement or irregularities.
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Visual Disturbances: Symptoms like glare, halos, or starbursts around lights, especially at night, can occur and typically improve over time.
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Cost of Laser Eye Surgery in Japan
The cost of laser eye surgery in Japan varies based on the specific procedure and the clinic's technology. It is considered an elective procedure and is not covered by Japan's public health insurance.
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Estimated Costs (Both Eyes).
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LASIK: From 400,000 to 600,000 JPY per pair of eyes
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SMILE: Similar to LASIK, or higher
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(Approx: ~$2,700 - $4,100 USD / ¥19,600 - ¥29,400 CNY / ₱156,000 - ₱234,000 PHP / ₹236,000 - ₹354,000 INR / Rp44,000,000 - Rp66,000,000 IDR / ฿88,000 - ฿132,000 THB / ₺112,000 - ₺168,000 TRY)
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Note: The exchange rates above are approximate and subject to daily fluctuations. The final cost will be paid in Japanese Yen.
Advantages of Laser Eye Surgery in Japan
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SMILE: A Minimally Invasive Option
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SMILE surgery is a modern, flapless procedure that is a key advantage of Japanese eye care. It offers a fast recovery and is often preferred for its reduced risk of dry eye and other complications.
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Our Medical Concierge Services
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What to Expect from Our Services
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We are your dedicated partner throughout your laser eye surgery journey in Japan. Our physician-led team ensures every step is guided by expert medical understanding, from your initial consultation to destination choice.
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Service Flow
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Initial Review: Start by completing our secure inquiry form on this page. Tell us about your situation and what you seek from our expert doctors.
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Expert Match: Based on your condition and preferences, our physician-led team will precisely match you with ophthalmology experts from our exclusive network across Japan.
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Personalized Referrals: We'll propose suitable medical institutions for your treatment in Japan. Our goal is to connect you with the ideal specialist and facility, opening the door for you to experience professional Japanese ophthalmology.
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Service Fees
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Email Consultation for Expert Match and Personalized Referrals: Free of Charge
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