SINGAPORE : At least 7,000 people in Singapore underwent LASIK surgery last year to treat their short-sightedness, according to the Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC).

However, not everyone is suitable for LASIK and some doctors have even advised against it.

Doctors said an alternative to LASIK is a pair of special contact lenses which can be worn overnight.

42-year-old business executive "John" underwent an unsuccessful LASIK surgery in 2003 in Singapore.

He spent over US$3,500 on the procedure. But two weeks after surgery, John said his vision got worse. It became blurry and distorted till today.

"I know some people who have also suffered the side effects of LASIK. They got very depressed and some even considered suicide because of the sudden loss in vision," said John.

John now has to use both contact lenses as well as glasses at the same time. He feels strongly that consumers should carefully consider LASIK, and not be swayed by the decreasing cost of the procedure.

"I think before they go for LASIK, perhaps they should consider some technology which are reversible, as LASIK is not reversible. I do know that there are some contact lens nowadays, which can mould your cornea," said John.

That is known as Orthokeratology, which is widely seen as an alternative to LASIK.

Orthokeratology requires users to put on special lenses on their eyes just before bedtime. After eight hours of sleep, the lenses are removed and users will have good vision for at least the following 12 hours.

"(Orthokeratology) changes the shape of the cornea or the front part of your eye so you can see clearly all day without wearing glasses or contact lenses. It's been around for about the last 10 years and is really a good alternative to other refractive error corrections," said Dr Jeffery Walline, Research Fellow at Ohio State University, USA.

A pair of such lenses cost over a US$1,000. So far, optometrists said there are fewer side effects compared to LASIK surgery.

Orthokeratology is suitable for those who cannot opt for LASIK surgery or are simply looking for alternatives to the procedure. - CNA /ls