SILK Surgery: Diagnosis & Treatment

Who Is The Right Candidate For SILK Surgery?

SILK Surgery is a revolutionary procedure for correcting refractive errors, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Your ophthalmologist will evaluate your eligibility based on several factors, such as:

• Extent of Refractive Error: SILK Surgery is best suited for individuals with moderate to high degrees of myopia or astigmatism.
• Age: The procedure is typically recommended for adults over 18 whose eyes have stopped growing and whose prescription has remained stable for at least one year.
• General Eye Health: A detailed assessment will be carried out to ensure that there are no additional eye conditions or diseases that could impede the procedure or recovery.
• Corneal Thickness: As the surgery involves the reshaping of the cornea, having a cornea of sufficient thickness is crucial.

What Are The Benefits Of SILK Surgery?

SILK Surgery, a state-of-the-art laser vision correction procedure, offers an array of benefits over traditional procedures like Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) and Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE). Let’s delve into these advantages:

• Reduced Risk of Complications: SILK Surgery is a flapless, minimally invasive approach that significantly decreases the risk of complications associated with other laser vision correction techniques.
• Rapid Recovery: Most patients can resume their regular within 24 hours post-surgery.
• Superior Visual Outcomes: The potential for achieving 20/20 vision or better is higher compared to other procedures.
• Reduced Side Effects: Patients undergoing SILK Surgery experience fewer instances of dry eyes, halos, and glare than those who opt for LASIK or SMILE.
• Effective Astigmatism Correction: SILK Surgery can correct higher levels of astigmatism, up to 6 diopters.

How To Prepare For SILK Surgery?

Prior preparation can significantly impact the success of your SILK surgery. Here are some steps you should take:

1. Discontinue Contact Lens Use: It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding contact lens wear before surgery. Typically, you’ll need to stop wearing contact lenses for a specified period before your procedure. This allows your corneas to return to their natural shape, providing more accurate measurements for the surgery.
2. Adjust Medications: Inform your surgeon about any medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medications may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped before surgery to reduce the risk of complications or interactions with anaesthesia or post-operative medications.
3. Stay Makeup-Free: On the day of your surgery, it’s essential to avoid wearing eye makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow. Makeup particles can increase the risk of infection during and after the procedure. Your surgeon will likely provide specific instructions on when you should stop using eye makeup before surgery.
4. Follow Directions: Your surgeon will provide you with detailed pre-operative instructions tailored to your individual needs. These instructions may include guidelines on eating and drinking before surgery, what to wear, and any other preparations you need to make. It’s essential to follow these directions closely to ensure a smooth and successful surgical experience.

Recovery Tips and Precautions To Follow After SILK Surgery?

A satisfactory recovery from SILK surgery hinges on careful adherence to post-operative instructions. Here are some tips to aid your recovery process:

• Avoid Touching Your Eyes: Resist rubbing or touching your eyes. In case of irritation, use soft tissue to dab at tears gently.
• Rest Your Eyes: Keep your eyes closed as much as possible on the day of the procedure; this aids recovery.
• Use Prescribed Eye Drops: Use the eye drops as directed by your doctor to ward off infection and promote healing.
• Limit Strenuous Activities: For a few weeks post-surgery, avoid activities that might strain the eyes or risk injury.
• Gradual Resumption of Normal Activities: Under the guidance of your doctor, resume your normal activities, such as screens, driving, and sports.

Potential Risks Or Complications Associated With SILK Surgery

Though SILK surgery is largely safe with excellent outcomes, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks involved. Some of these include:

• Infections: Post-operative infections, though rare, can occur and should be reported to your doctor immediately.
• Inflammation: Any inflammation should be promptly noted and brought to the attention of your doctor.
• Visual disturbances: Occurrences such as halos or glare should be mentioned to your doctor at the earliest.

It’s vital to communicate with your doctor regarding any discomfort or issues you might experience after the surgery.

What Is The Cost Of SILK Surgery In India?

SILK Surgery, a type of laser vision correction procedure, varies in cost across India, depending on several factors. Here are a few aspects that can significantly influence the total cost:

1. Type of Hospital or Clinic: The choice of healthcare facility where you undergo SILK surgery can significantly impact the cost. Different hospitals or clinics have varying pricing structures based on factors such as reputation, amenities, and level of care provided. High-end hospitals or specialised eye clinics may charge more for their services compared to smaller, community-based facilities.
2. Location of The Clinic: The clinic’s geographical location also plays a significant role in determining the cost of SILK surgery. In metropolitan cities where the cost of living and operational expenses are higher, healthcare facilities tend to charge higher fees to cover these overhead costs. Conversely, clinics located in smaller towns or rural areas may offer more affordable pricing due to lower overhead expenses.
3. Technology and Equipment: The level of technology and equipment available at the eye care centre can influence the cost of SILK surgery. Clinics equipped with the latest advancements in ophthalmic technology and state-of-the-art surgical equipment may charge higher fees to cover the investment and maintenance costs associated with these resources. Additionally, surgeons who specialise in using advanced techniques or technology may command higher fees for their expertise.
4. Surgeon’s Expertise and Reputation: The experience and reputation of the surgeon performing the SILK surgery can also impact the cost. Highly skilled and renowned surgeons with a track record of successful outcomes may charge higher fees for their services. Patients often place value on the expertise and reputation of the surgeon when making decisions about their eye care, which can influence pricing.
5. Additional Services and Amenities: Some clinics may offer additional services or amenities as part of their SILK surgery package, such as post-operative care, follow-up appointments, or access to diagnostic testing. These extras can contribute to the overall cost but may also enhance the patient experience and satisfaction.

Is SILK Surgery Covered Under Insurance?

In most cases, SILK Surgery isn’t covered by standard health insurance due to its classification as an elective, non-essential procedure. However, exceptions do exist where partial or full coverage may be provided. For instance, if you have a high degree of refractive error (myopia or astigmatism) of 7.5 diopters or more.

The insurance coverage might also include hospital room charges, expenses related to ophthalmology treatment, and teleconsultations with specialists. However, it’s crucial to note that pre-existing eye conditions or diseases are usually excluded from coverage for SILK Surgery.

Bear in mind that teleconsultation with specialists might be covered, but in-person outpatient (OPD) consultations often aren’t. Therefore, it’s vital to thoroughly peruse your insurance policy to understand how much of your SILK surgery expenses could be covered.