Dry eyes Tears play a crucial role in keeping our eyes moist, ensuring clear vision by letting light effectively pass through the eye's lens, and supplying oxygen to nourish the eye. They also help fend off infections and keep foreign substances at bay.   Now, when it comes to dry eyes, it's a pretty common issue that can stem from abnormal tear production or tears evaporating too quickly. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, that feeling like there's something foreign in your eye, redness, pain, blurry vision that gets better with blinking, or even feeling like your eyes are tired and heavy. What causes dry eyes can vary—getting older, being a woman (yeah, we're more prone to it), certain allergy medications, spending loads of time on screens, being in places with dust and smoke, gusty winds, and bright lights, they can all have a hand in it.   But hey, the good news is there are ways to tackle dry eyes:   Keep away from things that can make it worse, like strong winds and dust, by popping on some sunglasses and protecting those peepers. Remember to take breaks or blink more often, especially when you're glued to screens for a while. You've got these cool eye drops called artificial tears. There's a type for daytime (more watery) and nighttime (a bit thicker). Which one to use depends on how serious your dry eye situation is. Sometimes your doc might suggest special eye drops that encourage your eyes to make more tears. Give your eyes a treat with warm, clean cloths over your closed eyelids to help them feel better. If the dry eye struggle is real and isn't improving, it's wise to chat with an eye doctor.   All in all, dry eyes can be a bother, but there are solutions out there. It's important to take good care of your eyes, especially when it's all dry outside. If you suspect you've got dry eyes, having a chat with an eye care expert is a smart move.      

An intraocular lens (IOL) is an artificial lens implanted to replace the natural lens after cataract surgery or to correct refractive errors. IOLs restore clear vision and can also correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Types of Intraocular Lenses Monofocal IOL Provides clear vision at a single distance, usually for far vision. Simple, reliable, and cost-effective, but near or intermediate vision may require glasses. Multifocal IOL Provides clear vision at multiple distances (near, intermediate, far), reducing dependency on glasses. Subtypes include: Bifocal IOL: Two focal points (e.g., near + far or intermediate + far). Trifocal IOL: Three focal points (near, intermediate, far) for daily activities. Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF): One extended focal point for improved distance and intermediate vision. Some patients may notice glare or halos, especially at night. Toric IOL Designed specifically for astigmatism correction. Can be monofocal or multifocal depending on patient needs. Requires precise measurements for optimal placement. Preparing for IOL Surgery Proper preparation improves outcomes and reduces complications: Eye exam and health evaluation to assess surgical risk. Measurement of corneal curvature and eye length to calculate lens power. Discuss and choose the appropriate IOL type with your surgeon. Trial assessment of stress and ability to remain still during surgery. Remove contact lenses 3–7 days prior to surgery. Wear comfortable, easy-to-change clothing and avoid makeup, creams, or jewelry. Arrange for a caregiver to assist before and after surgery. Bring sunglasses for post-surgery eye protection. Surgical Procedure Local anesthesia (eye drops or injection) is used; general anesthesia if necessary. A small incision (~3 mm) is made at the cornea-sclera junction. Ultrasound may be used to break up a hardened cataract. The natural lens is removed while keeping the lens capsule intact. The folded IOL is inserted through the incision and positioned in the lens capsule. No stitches are required due to the small incision. Post-Surgery Care Proper care ensures faster recovery and reduces complications: Use prescribed eye drops and medications as directed. Avoid heavy eye use, liftings, or bending for the first month. Clean around the eyes with sterile materials; avoid rubbing. Wear sunglasses during the day and an eye shield at night for one month. Avoid swimming, direct water, or dust exposure. Gradually resume normal vision use; report pain, swelling, blurred or double vision immediately. Recovery and Possible Side Effects Vision improves gradually within days and stabilizes around one month. Common minor side effects include blurred vision, dry eyes, or swollen image points, usually resolving within weeks. Long-term complications are rare but may include lens capsule clouding, infection, lens dislocation, increased eye pressure, or retinal issues. Capsule clouding can be treated with laser therapy for rapid vision improvement. Cost and Insurance Coverage Average cataract surgery with IOL implantation: approximately 59,000 THB and above. Standard IOLs are usually covered by health insurance, but premium lenses (Multifocal or Toric) may require additional payment. Check with your insurance provider. Summary Intraocular lenses replace the natural lens affected by cataracts or refractive errors, restoring clear vision. Types include monofocal, multifocal, and Toric IOLs, each suited for different vision needs. Proper pre-surgery preparation and post-surgery care ensure faster recovery and optimal outcomes.Bangkok Eye Hospital provides advanced IOL services with expert ophthalmologists to restore confident vision. FAQ How long do IOLs last? IOLs are permanent and do not deteriorate over time. Replacement is generally unnecessary. Can I watch TV after surgery? Yes, but take breaks to avoid eye strain. Can I have IOLs if I have cataracts and astigmatism? Yes, Toric IOLs correct both cataracts and astigmatism, reducing dependence on corrective glasses.

Eye floaters—tiny strands or dark spots that appear in your vision—are usually caused by vitreous degeneration. They are not dangerous but can be bothersome. Floaters occur when the vitreous gel deteriorates, causing collagen fibers to clump together into small strands or specks that cast moving shadows in your vision, especially when looking at bright backgrounds. Most floaters do not require treatment and tend to become less noticeable over time. However, if they significantly affect your vision or are accompanied by serious symptoms, they can be treated with laser therapy, cryotherapy, or vitrectomy. Eye floaters, often described as small dark specks or thread-like shapes drifting across your vision, are very common. They occur when tiny fragments of tissue float within the vitreous gel inside the eye. Although floaters are usually harmless, some cases may indicate underlying eye conditions that require proper evaluation and treatment. To ensure safety and prevent complications, let’s explore their causes, symptoms, and recommended care.   What Are Eye Floaters or Vitreous Degeneration? Vitreous degeneration commonly occurs with age, especially in middle-aged and older adults. The vitreous, once a clear gel, gradually liquefies and forms tiny fibrous clumps that appear as floaters—dark spots, strands, or cobweb-like shapes—particularly noticeable against bright backgrounds. Some people may also experience Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD), a condition where the vitreous pulls away from the retina. This may cause flashes of light similar to lightning. If symptoms worsen or are accompanied by retinal problems, an eye doctor should evaluate the condition promptly.   Causes of Eye Floaters Floaters or vitreous deterioration can result from several factors beyond aging, including lifestyle habits and eye health conditions: Aging – The most common cause. Vitreous fibers shrink and clump as we get older. Nearsightedness (Myopia) – People with high myopia may develop vitreous degeneration earlier and at twice the rate of those with normal vision. Diabetes – Diabetes can damage retinal blood vessels, causing new vessels to grow into the vitreous, which may rupture and bleed. Eye surgery – Cataract or glaucoma surgery may alter the vitreous structure, leading to clumping. Vitreous hemorrhage – Trauma or injury can cause bleeding in the vitreous, appearing as dark spots. Inflammation – Infections, autoimmune disorders, or certain cancers may trigger inflammation in the vitreous or retina.   Symptoms of Vitreous Degeneration Many people first notice floaters drifting across their field of vision. Common symptoms include: Seeing dark spots, strands, or cobweb-like shapes that move with eye movement Floaters appearing more prominently in bright environments Flashes of light, similar to camera flashes or lightning, caused by vitreous traction on the retina   Who Is More Likely to Develop Eye Floaters? Although floaters are generally harmless, certain groups are more prone to developing them: Adults aged 50 years or older Individuals with high myopia (more than -6.00) People who frequently strain their eyes Those with a history of eye injury or eye surgery   When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention Floaters are usually benign, but sometimes they indicate more serious issues such as retinal tears or retinal detachment. Visit an ophthalmologist immediately if you notice: Frequent or sudden flashes of light A rapid increase in floaters A curtain-like shadow or dark area blocking part of your vision   Diagnosis Eye doctors begin with a medical history and symptom review, then examine the front of the eye using a slit-lamp microscope. Eye-dilating drops are used to examine the vitreous and retina in detail to assess visual clarity and retinal health.   Treatment for Eye Floaters In most cases, floaters fade or become less bothersome over time. However, if they affect vision or are associated with retinal problems, treatment options include: Laser Treatment Laser therapy breaks up or moves vitreous clumps away from the line of sight. It may help in cases where floaters are clearly defined and not too close to the retina.However, research shows that the benefits may not always outweigh the risks, so it is not suitable for everyone. Cryotherapy Cryotherapy uses extreme cold to seal retinal tears and prevent retinal detachment, which sometimes accompanies floaters in certain patients. Vitrectomy Recommended only for severe floaters or when accompanied by retinal tears or detachment. The surgeon removes the deteriorated vitreous and replaces it with saline or other solutions. The body naturally regenerates vitreous gel over time.   Prevention Tips While floaters cannot be completely prevented, proper eye care can reduce risks: Avoid rubbing your eyes forcefully and protect them from impact Avoid prolonged eye use in dim environments Avoid sleeping with bright lights on Get annual eye examinations, especially for older adults Wear protective eyewear when working in construction, factories, or with hazardous materials   Summary Eye floaters occur when deteriorated fibers or tissue in the vitreous cast shadows on the retina. Common with aging or eye trauma, floaters are typically harmless but may sometimes signal retinal issues.Bangkok Eye Hospital offers comprehensive vitreous and retinal examinations by expert ophthalmologists to diagnose issues accurately and provide proper care. If you notice unusual symptoms, schedule an appointment promptly for peace of mind and long-term eye health.   Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Can eye floaters go away on their own? Floaters rarely disappear completely, but most people adapt over time, making them less noticeable. They generally do not affect vision or overall eye health. How long do floaters last? Floaters may persist for months or even years, but the discomfort usually decreases as your brain adapts. Can I use artificial tears if I have floaters or vitreous degeneration? Yes. Artificial tears can relieve dryness or discomfort, although they do not eliminate floaters themselves.

  LASIK Update 2025: Is 8-Second Eye Surgery Finally Here? Are you still relying on glasses or contact lenses in 2025? If you've been waiting for the perfect time for vision correction, that time is now. The world of LASIK has evolved far beyond the procedures you might have heard about. Forget the old fears of blades and long recoveries. The latest 2025 update in laser vision correction focuses on speed, precision, and "no-flap" technology. And yes, you read that right. 8-second surgery is no longer science fiction. What's Wrong With Old LASIK? For years, vision correction has been amazing, but it came with trade-offs. Traditional LASIK: Uses a microkeratome blade to create a "flap" in the cornea, which is lifted so a laser can reshape the tissue underneath. FemtoLASIK: This was a big step up, offering a "bladeless" option by using a femtosecond laser (instead of a blade) to create the flap. It provided more precision and safety. The keyword in both? "Flap." While effective, creating a flap carries minor risks and requires a longer healing period. But the 2025 update changes the entire game. The 2025 Breakthrough: SMILE Pro — Vision Correction in 8 Seconds This is the update you’ve been waiting for. The "latest innovation in bladeless LASIK" is SMILE Pro. Unlike previous methods, SMILE Pro is a "no-flap" procedure. It revolutionizes vision correction by minimizing trauma to the eye. How SMILE Pro Works: Unbelievable Speed: It uses the cutting-edge Carl ZEISS VisuMax 800 laser, which corrects your vision in just 8 seconds per eye. This is 3 times faster than previous procedures, reducing stress and anxiety. No Flap, Tiny Incision: Instead of creating a large flap, the laser creates a tiny "lenticule" (a small piece of tissue) inside the cornea. Gentle Removal: The surgeon removes this lenticule through a microscopic incision of only 2-4 mm. Incredible Benefits: Because there's no flap, the cornea's strength is maintained. This means a faster recovery, a lower risk of post-op dry eyes, and fewer complications. It's the perfect choice for active individuals, athletes, or anyone worried about flap-related wounds. SMILE Pro is the new gold standard for correcting nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism, offering safe, precise, and fast-healing results. The AI-Powered Future: NanoRelex® But the 2025 update doesn't stop there. Bangkok Eye Hospital's Laser Vision LASIK Center also introduces NanoRelex®, the "latest LASIK technology from Switzerland." This is precision vision correction, enhanced with Artificial Intelligence (AI). (Source: bangkokeyehospital.com) AI-Powered Precision: NanoRelex® uses low-energy "nanojoules" and an advanced eye-tracking system for unparalleled precision. Real-Time Safety: It features an intraoperative OCT scan, allowing the surgeon to monitor the procedure in real-time, ensuring it's operating on the correct layer of the cornea safely. Minimally Invasive: Like SMILE Pro, this is a "no-flap" procedure with a tiny 2-3 mm incision. It's described as an "extremely precise" and "safest option" for correcting nearsightedness and astigmatism, offering a quick recovery.  Are You a Candidate for 2025 LASIK? These new technologies are life-changing, but you must be a good candidate. According to Bangkok Eye Hospital, you should: Be 18 years or older. Have had a stable vision prescription for at least one year. Have sufficient corneal thickness. Have no severe eye diseases (like glaucoma or cataracts) or uncontrolled medical conditions.   Don't Wait: 2025 Promotions Are Here! Ready to see the world in high definition? Bangkok Eye Hospital's Laser Vision Center is offering special 2025 promotions for these advanced technologies, but only until November 30, 2025. You can even get a pre-LASIK Eye Evaluation for a promotional price (and it's free if you have the surgery on the same day). The future of vision is here. Stop waiting and find out if 8-second, AI-powered LASIK is right for you.

SMILE Pro is the latest laser vision correction surgery that doesn’t require a flap, minimizing eye trauma and enabling faster recovery. It’s ideal for people with heavy physical activity or intensive visual use. SMILE Pro uses a high-speed laser to create a tiny lenticule inside the cornea, which is then removed through a small 2–4 mm incision without opening a flap. This reduces impact on the eye and allows for rapid healing. It’s suitable for those looking to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, especially active individuals, heavy visual users, or those concerned about traditional LASIK flap wounds. For people seeking a permanent solution for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, SMILE Pro is a popular choice. The advanced laser technology ensures precision, minimal incisions, fast recovery, and reduced risk of complications—perfect for modern patients who want safe and effective long-term results. What is SMILE Pro? SMILE Pro® is the latest advancement from ReLEx SMILE technology, offering superior speed, precision, and comfort. It uses the Carl ZEISS VisuMax 800 laser, which corrects vision in just 8 seconds per eye, reducing anxiety during the procedure and enhancing patient relaxation.   How SMILE Pro Works SMILE Pro revolutionizes traditional LASIK by eliminating the need for a corneal flap. The high-speed laser creates a lenticule inside the cornea according to the required prescription. The surgeon then removes the lenticule through a small 2 mm incision, permanently reshaping the cornea and improving vision clarity.   Who is SMILE Pro For? SMILE Pro is ideal for people with myopia or astigmatism seeking fast, safe results, including: Those who want to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses due to daily activities or work demands. Active individuals or heavy visual users concerned about flap complications, as no flap is created. Patients aged 18 or older with stable vision for at least one year. Individuals without contraindications such as glaucoma, retinal disorders, or autoimmune eye diseases. Not recommended during pregnancy due to hormonal changes affecting vision stability. Patients over 40 may still need reading glasses due to presbyopia.   Where to Get SMILE Pro SMILE Pro is offered at Laser Vision, Bangkok Eye Hospital, providing: The latest VisuMax 800 technology for precise, fast laser correction. Expert ophthalmologists specializing in laser vision correction. Comprehensive care from pre-op assessment to post-op follow-up.   Pre-Procedure Preparation Remove soft contact lenses at least 3 days before and rigid lenses 7 days prior. Avoid eye makeup and sprays or perfumes. Wear front-button clothing and shower/hair wash before surgery. Bring a companion for post-op transportation.   Summary SMILE Pro is an advanced laser vision correction technology using high-speed lasers and tiny incisions for fast recovery and reduced risks. Ideal for myopia and astigmatism patients seeking accurate, safe results. Bangkok Eye Hospital offers expert care, modern equipment, and a price of approximately 90,000 THB per eye. Pre-op assessment is required for best outcomes.   FAQ About SMILE Pro Difference from ReLEx SMILE SMILE Pro is faster (8–10 seconds vs. 25–27 seconds), reducing surgery time and eye impact.   Is it painful? Local anesthetic drops are used; patients feel only slight pressure. Minor irritation may last 3–4 hours.   Can vision regress? SMILE Pro provides permanent correction, but natural age-related changes or eye conditions may alter vision slightly. Regression due to surgery error is rare.

There are several popular types of LASIK, such as PRK, which removes the corneal surface to reshape the cornea; LASIK, which uses a microkeratome blade to create a corneal flap; Femto LASIK, which uses a laser instead of a blade; and ReLEx SMILE, which involves a smaller incision and faster recovery. LASIK is suitable for people with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, who have a strong and sufficiently thick cornea, and no chronic or severe eye diseases. It is ideal for those who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses in daily life. Choosing the most appropriate LASIK technique depends on your vision condition, corneal structure, and lifestyle. It’s best to consult an experienced ophthalmologist for a personalized evaluation and treatment recommendation. What Are the Different Types of LASIK? Vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism can significantly affect one’s quality of life. LASIK has become a popular and effective solution for permanent vision correction.Today, there are various LASIK technologies — each with its unique principles, advantages, limitations, and costs.This article explores how many types of LASIK there are, comparing each method’s pros and cons and helping you choose the best technique for your eye condition, budget, and lifestyle.   Main Types of LASIK Surgery LASIK technologies have evolved continuously to meet different vision correction needs. Each type works differently and has its own benefits and precautions:   1. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) The earliest LASIK method. The surgeon removes the outer corneal surface before reshaping the cornea with a laser. The surface gradually regenerates.Pros: No risk of flap displacement; suitable for thin corneas or people with high-impact activities.Cons: Longer recovery (3–5 days of discomfort or blurred vision).   2. TransPRK An advanced form of PRK using Excimer laser to remove the epithelium and reshape the cornea in one step — without touching the eye directly.Pros: No flap creation; ideal for thin corneas.Cons: Similar recovery time to PRK; may cause temporary discomfort.   3. Standard LASIK Traditional LASIK using a microkeratome blade to create a corneal flap, then reshaping with a laser.Pros: Fast recovery, minimal pain.Cons: Possible flap displacement if the eye is hit within 1–3 months.   4. FemtoLASIK (Femtosecond LASIK) An upgraded version of standard LASIK using a Femtosecond laser instead of a blade to create the flap.Pros: More precise, safer, smoother flap surface, faster healing.Cons: Still carries minor flap displacement risk.   5. ReLEx SMILE Uses a Femtosecond laser to create a small tissue lenticule, which is removed through a 2–4 mm incision — no flap creation.Pros: Tiny incision, faster recovery, lower dry-eye risk, better corneal stability.Cons: Suitable only for myopia and astigmatism (not presbyopia).   6. SMILE Pro® The most advanced and comfortable LASIK technology today, using high-speed laser correction — only 8 seconds per eye.Pros: Fast, accurate, less anxiety during the procedure.Cons: Applicable for myopia and astigmatism only.   7. NanoLASIK An enhanced all-laser LASIK using low-energy femtosecond laser and AI-assisted scanning for higher precision.Pros: Painless, accurate, safe, effective for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.   8. NanoReLEx® Uses next-gen femtosecond laser with AI + real-time OCT scanning, creating and removing corneal tissue via a small incision (~2 mm).Pros: Extremely precise, safest option, quick recovery.Cons: Suitable for myopia and astigmatism only.   9. NV LASIK Designed for presbyopia correction, using blended vision — one eye is corrected for distance, the other slightly nearsighted for near focus.Pros: Reduces dependency on reading glasses.Cons: Requires a short adaptation period.   10. Nano NV LASIK An advanced form of FemtoLASIK using ultra-fast femtosecond laser (nanojoule energy) for smooth corneal separation and rapid recovery.Pros: Enhances both near and distance vision for presbyopia; minimal discomfort.Cons: May slightly reduce contrast sensitivity.   Comparison Table: Types of LASIK Type Principle Advantages Precautions PRK Removes surface layer before reshaping cornea No flap, suitable for thin corneas Slower recovery, discomfort TransPRK Laser removes surface and reshapes in one step Touch-free, no flap Slower recovery Standard LASIK Blade creates flap, laser reshapes Fast recovery Flap may shift with impact FemtoLASIK Laser creates flap, no blade High precision, safer Minor flap risks ReLEx SMILE Laser creates small lenticule, removed via tiny incision Small incision, quick recovery Limited to myopia/astigmatism SMILE Pro® Fast femtosecond laser (8 sec/eye) Quick, comfortable Myopia/astigmatism only NanoLASIK Low-energy laser, AI precision Safe, accurate Slight risk if impacted early NanoReLEx® AI-assisted femtosecond laser, OCT scan Highly precise, safest Myopia/astigmatism only NV LASIK Blended vision correction See near & far Needs short adjustment Nano NV LASIK Nano-energy laser for presbyopia Fast recovery, smooth May reduce image sharpness   Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK? LASIK is effective but not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates should: Be 18 years or older Have stable vision for at least 1 year Have sufficient corneal thickness Have no severe eye diseases (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts) Have no uncontrolled medical conditions (e.g., diabetes)   Pre-LASIK Preparation Stop wearing contact lenses before surgery Wash your face and hair thoroughly Avoid makeup and wear front-button clothing Do not use perfume or deodorant sprays Avoid alcohol the day before Inform your doctor of all medications Do not drive on the day of surgery — have someone accompany you   Post-LASIK Care and Precautions Do not rub your eyes Avoid getting water in your eyes Do not swim or dive until cleared by your doctor Avoid eye makeup for at least 2 weeks Use prescribed eye drops strictly Wear protective eye shields while sleeping for 1 week Rest your eyes regularly when using screens   How Much Does LASIK Cost? Costs vary by technology. A comprehensive eye evaluation at Bangkok Eye Hospital can help determine the most suitable technique and estimate the total cost, including aftercare and insurance options.   Conclusion How many types of LASIK are there?There are several — such as PRK, LASIK, Femto LASIK, and ReLEx SMILE, each differing in technology, incision size, and recovery time.Choosing the right LASIK method requires professional evaluation to ensure safety, accuracy, and long-term results.Bangkok Eye Hospital offers modern technology and specialized eye care to help you achieve clearer vision confidently.   FAQs About LASIK Types 1. Can I undergo another LASIK procedure with a different technique?Yes, but it depends on your corneal condition and previous method. For example, if you previously had LASIK with a flap, your surgeon may reopen it for enhancement. PRK retreatment is also possible for certain cases.   2. Does the LASIK type affect recovery time?Yes. PRK typically takes several days to a week for recovery, while LASIK, Femto LASIK, and ReLEx SMILE allow clear vision within 1–3 days.   3. Which LASIK technique is best for me?It depends on your vision type, corneal thickness, lifestyle, and budget. Consulting a specialized ophthalmologist is essential for finding the most suitable and effective option.