A few months ago, I started researching lens implant surgery (also known as refractive lens exchange or RLE) because my eyesight had been getting progressively worse. I had been wearing glasses for years, and while I didn’t mind them too much, I noticed my prescription kept increasing. The idea of finally being free from glasses or contact lenses intrigued me, but I wasn’t sure if I was the right candidate for lens implant surgery.
My Struggles with Glasses and Contacts
For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a high prescription — both near-sighted and with a little bit of astigmatism. Over the years, I’ve tried everything from wearing contact lenses to getting more frequent eye checkups. But with age, I noticed that not only was my vision becoming blurrier, but I was also starting to struggle with presbyopia (the inability to focus on close objects as I got older). Reading books, checking my phone, and working on the computer all became increasingly challenging.
I didn’t want to be tied to glasses forever, and I was curious about whether lens implant surgery could finally offer a long-term solution.
Finding the Right Clinic: SNU Eye Clinic
After researching several clinics in Seoul, I stumbled upon SNU Eye Clinic in Gangnam. It had rave reviews from both locals and expats. The name of Dr. Chung Eui Sang kept coming up — he was highly recommended for his expertise in refractive surgeries, including lens implant surgery. I decided to check it out.
I scheduled an initial consultation with Dr. Chung, and from the moment I walked into the clinic, I felt reassured. The staff was friendly, the clinic was state-of-the-art, and the doctor’s reputation was evident.
The Ideal Candidate for Lens Implant Surgery
During my consultation with Dr. Chung, I asked him exactly who the ideal candidate for lens implant surgery is. Here’s what he explained:
1. People with High Refractive Errors If your glasses prescription is particularly high (whether you’re nearsighted or farsighted), you might be a good candidate. In my case, I had been wearing thick lenses for years, and Dr. Chung explained that the lens implant could correct my vision permanently, freeing me from glasses or contacts.
2. Those with Presbyopia If you’re like me and starting to experience the difficulties of presbyopia, lens implants could be the perfect solution. It’s especially beneficial for individuals over 40 who struggle with reading up close. Dr. Chung explained that the procedure could restore near, intermediate, and far vision without the need for reading glasses.
3. Candidates Who Can’t Have LASIK While LASIK is a great option for many, it’s not suitable for everyone, especially if you have issues like thin corneas or dry eye. For people like me who are ineligible for LASIK, lens implants can be a great alternative.
4. People Looking for Long-Term Solutions If you’re looking for a permanent fix (instead of continually updating glasses or changing contact lens prescriptions), lens implants might be the right choice. The surgery involves removing the natural lens in your eye and replacing it with a customized artificial lens. This lens is tailored to your needs and can offer permanent results.
5. Those with Cataracts Although I didn’t have cataracts at the time, lens implant surgery is also the go-to procedure for those suffering from cataracts. It’s a dual-purpose surgery that corrects vision and removes cataracts simultaneously.
My Experience with Lens Implant Surgery at SNU Eye Clinic
After discussing everything with Dr. Chung and undergoing a series of thorough eye tests, I felt confident that I was a good candidate for the procedure. The surgery was done under local anesthesia, so I was awake but relaxed throughout the process. Dr. Chung explained every step clearly, making sure I was comfortable and informed.
The recovery was much smoother than I had anticipated. Within just a few days, I noticed clearer vision — and the best part? I didn’t need to reach for my glasses anymore.
Why I Recommend SNU Eye Clinic
If you’re considering lens implant surgery, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic. The clinic offers:
- Advanced technology: From diagnostics to surgery, SNU Eye Clinic uses the latest tools to ensure accuracy and safety.
- Personalized care: Dr. Chung doesn’t just perform the surgery; he takes the time to thoroughly explain your options and what’s best for you.
- Experienced staff: The team is supportive, and their English-speaking staff is there to guide you through the entire process (perfect for expats).
For more details about lens implant surgery and to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chung, you can visit their website here. Dr. Chung’s profile can be found here.
In short, if you’ve been considering lens implant surgery, SNU Eye Clinic is a place you can trust for personalized care and excellent results. It truly changed my life, and I feel more confident than ever without my glasses!