For centuries, people have relied on glasses and, more recently, contact lenses to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. But with the rise of vision correction surgery, millions of patients around the world now enjoy clear sight without needing corrective eyewear.
In Nigeria, particularly Lagos, demand for vision correction procedures such as LASIK, PRK, and phakic intraocular lens implantation has surged. Patients seek independence from glasses, while doctors emphasise that modern techniques are safe, precise, and effective when performed on carefully selected candidates.
But surgery isn’t for everyone—and it’s not without risks. This article will walk you through what vision correction surgery involves, the different types, benefits, risks, recovery expectations, and how to decide if it’s right for you.
What Is Vision Correction Surgery?
Vision correction surgery (also called refractive surgery) refers to a group of surgical procedures that correct refractive errors by reshaping the cornea or implanting corrective lenses inside the eye.
Main Types of Vision Correction Surgery
- Laser-Based Surgeries
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): A corneal flap is created, and the underlying cornea is reshaped with an excimer laser.
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): The surface layer of the cornea is removed, then reshaped with a laser—no flap involved.
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): A femtosecond laser removes a small corneal disc through a keyhole incision.
- Lens-Based Surgeries
- Phakic Intraocular Lenses (ICL): Artificial lenses are implanted inside the eye without removing the natural lens.
- Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): Similar to cataract surgery; the natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens.
Who Is a Candidate for Vision Correction Surgery?
Doctors evaluate several factors before recommending surgery:
- Age: At least 18 (preferably 21+) with stable vision for one year.
- Refractive Error Range: LASIK is typically best for -1.00 to -12.00 myopia; ICLs suit higher prescriptions.
- Corneal Health: Adequate thickness, no keratoconus or corneal dystrophies.
- General Eye Health: No untreated glaucoma, severe dry eyes, or retinal disease.
- Systemic Health: Diabetes, autoimmune disease, or pregnancy may delay candidacy.
Benefits of Vision Correction Surgery
- Reduced Dependence on Glasses/Contacts: Many patients achieve 20/20 or near-20/20 vision.
- Fast Recovery: LASIK patients often see clearly within 24–48 hours.
- Precision: Modern lasers operate at sub-micron levels, minimizing errors.
- Lifestyle Freedom: Easier for athletes, swimmers, or professionals who find glasses cumbersome.
- Durability: Most results are long-lasting; only natural age-related changes (like presbyopia) may require glasses later.
Risks and Complications
Though highly successful, surgery carries potential risks:
- Dry Eyes: Common after LASIK; usually temporary but may require long-term drops.
- Glare and Halos: Especially at night; often improve with time.
- Under- or Over-correction: Some patients may still need low-prescription glasses.
- Flap Complications (LASIK): Rare but possible if trauma occurs post-surgery.
- Ectasia: Rare corneal weakening if performed on unsuitable candidates.
- Infection: Extremely rare with modern sterile techniques.
Bottom line: Risks are low when patients are carefully screened and surgery is performed by experienced surgeons.
The Procedures: What to Expect
1. LASIK
- Duration: 10–15 minutes per eye.
- Anaesthesia: Numbing eye drops.
- Recovery: Vision improves within 1–2 days; full stabilisation in 3–6 months.
2. PRK
- Duration: 10 minutes per eye.
- Recovery: Slower than LASIK; takes 1–2 weeks for surface healing and several months for stabilization.
- Best for: Patients with thinner corneas or high risk of trauma (e.g., military, contact sports).
3. SMILE
- Duration: 15 minutes per eye.
- Recovery: Faster than PRK, slower than LASIK.
- Best for: Moderate myopia, patients at risk of dry eye.
4. Phakic ICL
- Duration: 20–30 minutes.
- Recovery: Few days.
- Best for: Very high prescriptions, thin corneas, or patients unsuitable for LASIK.
Life After Vision Correction Surgery
- First 24 Hours: Blurry vision, tearing, light sensitivity.
- First Week: Avoid eye rubbing, swimming, and dusty environments.
- First Month: Regular follow-up visits, continue prescribed drops.
- Long-Term: Annual eye exams are recommended to monitor stability.
Alternatives to Surgery
- Glasses: Safest, non-invasive, but less convenient.
- Contact Lenses: More natural vision but require hygiene and carry infection risks.
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Special overnight lenses that reshape cornea temporarily.
Patient Stories
- Ngozi, 27: Chose LASIK for her high myopia. Within 48 hours, she was back at work without glasses.
- Emeka, 35: Rejected for LASIK due to thin corneas, but received phakic ICLs and now drives without glasses.
- Mrs. Adebayo, 52: Opted for Refractive Lens Exchange due to early cataracts and presbyopia, gaining clear vision at all distances.
Cost of Vision Correction Surgery in Lagos (₦)
- LASIK/PRK: ₦600,000 – ₦1,200,000 (per eye, depending on clinic and technology).
- SMILE: ₦900,000 – ₦1,500,000.
- Phakic ICL: ₦1,200,000 – ₦2,500,000 (includes cost of imported lenses).
- RLE: ₦1,000,000 – ₦2,000,000.
HMOs in Lagos (e.g., Hygeia, AXA Mansard, Avon, Leadway, Reliance HMO) often cover consultation and diagnostics, but not always refractive surgeries, since they’re considered elective. Always confirm before booking.
Bottom Line: Is Vision Correction Surgery Right for You?
Vision correction surgery can be life-changing, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. The best approach is to:
- Book a comprehensive exam at a trusted clinic (like Vision Planet Eye Clinic in Lagos) to determine eligibility.
- Discuss all options—LASIK, PRK, SMILE, or ICL—with a refractive specialist.
- Weigh the benefits, risks, and long-term costs compared to glasses or contacts.
With modern technology, experienced surgeons, and proper aftercare, millions have safely regained clear vision through these procedures. The key is individualised assessment and realistic expectations.