Laser Refractive Surgery

Our Patients’ Laser Refractive Surgery Journey

SmartSurfACE is an innovative eye laser surgery method that works without touching the eye. It combines the benefits of touch-free TransPRK surface treatment with innovative SmartPulse technology. This touch-free laser vision correction is non-invasive, safe, gentle and stressless.

It’s an easy way to enter the world of better vision.

SmartSurfACE is suitable for all eye laser surgery candidates. It is especially ideal for active and athletic people who do contact sports, water sports or air sports. It is also suitable for professions where sharp vision is needed, such as pilots and policemen. SmartSurfACE can be used for hyperopia and myopia treatment as well as astigmatism treatment.

After a comprehensive evaluation and consultation with your ophthalmologist, the most suitable method of treatment will be determined.

The treatment itself takes less than a minute.
SmartSurfACE provides more biomechanical preservation and cornea stability, because unlike with conventional refractive surgery methods the treatment takes place directly on the cornea surface. It also has very little effect on tear film production.

Garden Route Eye Clinic has its own dedicated Excimer Laser theatre for performing these procedures at the George Surgical Centre. We use the Schwind Amaris 1050RS.

Frequently asked questions regarding the treatment

Who can benefit from this procedure?

  • Near-sightedness, far-sightedness as well as astigmatism can be treated with the laser procedure, although it is most commonly used to treat near-sightedness (with or without astigmatism) in patients younger than 50 years of age.
  • Patients older than 50 might still be candidates for other types of corrective surgery and are still encouraged to have the initial consultation.
  • If you are a contact lens wearer it is very important not to wear your contacts for 1 week before the appointment (if you wear soft contact lenses), and 4 weeks if you wear hard lenses.
  • You should not be pregnant or breast feeding, and should not plan on becoming pregnant during this time.

Why is the initial consultation important?

  • During the initial consultation, which is 1.5 – 2 hours, our staff will conduct various tests and scans to determine if you are a suitable candidate. These include a comprehensive eye test by an optometrist.
  • An ophthalmologist will then examine your eyes for any other pathology and confirm whether the procedure can be performed safely.
  • During this consultation your eyes will be dilated, and a driver will be required. This lasts for about 24 hours.

Will my medical aid cover the costs of Laser Refractive Surgery?

  • Please note that, because it is seen as a cosmetic procedure, medical aids are very reluctant to cover the surgery and will only cover the initial consultation.

Is the procedure painful?

  • The procedure itself is painless.
  • Contact lenses will be placed on your eyes which will help with the healing process and discomfort.
  • Mild to moderate discomfort can be expected the first couple of days.

What else can I expect after surgery?

  • The protective contact lens will remain on your eye(s) for 4-5 days after the procedure.
  • Eye shields (which you will receive at the facility) needs to be worn at night until the contact lenses are removed.
  • Sleep will accelerate the healing process.
  • Prescribed eye drops will need to be used it for 2-3 months.
  • You can expect and plan to be booked off from work for 1 week.

COMPASSIONATE CARE

At Garden Route Eye Clinic,
we believe in integrity and compassionate care.