A Brighter Future with Eyehub
Considering laser vision correction? Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer chats to a local eye specialist with years of international expertise to bust some common myths and explain what you can expect from the process…
When it comes to something as precious as your sight, it’s important to find a trusted expert. Highly qualified and deeply passionate, ophthalmologist Dr Sonia Moorthy trained with global leaders in London, Singapore, Sydney and beyond before establishing her world-class EyeHub clinic in Buderim in 2022.
With state-of-the-art technology, personalised care and the latest techniques, EyeHub is a clear choice for those looking to enhance their vision and their lifestyle. We chatted to Dr Sonia to debunk some common misconceptions when it comes to laser vision correction – so you can feel informed, empowered and ready to see the world in a whole new way.
Myth #1: It’s painful and requires extended downtime
The idea of painful procedures and long recovery times can often be a barrier, but according to Dr Sonia, modern laser vision correction is swift and pain-free, taking just a few minutes per eye – making it a fantastic choice.
“With numbing drops applied, you’ll feel only a slight pressure, so there’s no need to worry about pain,” she said. “After the procedure, you may experience some temporary blurriness and, very occasionally, a mild gritty sensation however most patients experience clear vision and minimal downtime, returning to everyday activities – including driving and the gym – the next day.
“Quick recoveries are especially true with flapless techniques like Smile, which uses a less-than-1mm incision and tends to produce fewer dry eye symptoms. And advanced surgical techniques such as Lasik, Presbyond and Smile Pro offer quick healing – typically within 24 hours.
“For all procedures, we provide protective eyewear, medicated drops and personalised aftercare instructions to ensure a comfortable recovery for up to 12 months after the procedure.”
Myth #2: It’s risky
One of the most common myths about laser vision correction is that it’s risky. But while all surgeries carry some level of risk, this type of eye surgery has a proven safety record as an elective procedure.
“Over the past three decades, millions of surgeries have refined both technology and technique,” Dr Sonia reassures. “Complications are exceedingly rare, and severe visual loss is virtually unheard of when performed by a trained surgeon.
“Many patients choose laser surgery because contact lens use carries risks, including infection or corneal ulcers.”
She said that Smile (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) had become particularly popular, with more than 10 million procedures completed worldwide.
“It allows for the delicate removal of corneal tissue (a lenticule) through a small incision, preserving more of the corneal structure and potentially alleviating issues such as dry eyes.
“Compared to traditional Lasik, long-term studies show Smile outcomes are equal to – or better than – Lasik.”
Dr Sonia said that another popular treatment, Presbyond Laser Blended Vision was a sophisticated solution for age-related near vision loss known as presbyopia.
“In Australia alone, around 690,000 people are affected by this condition and Presbyond is a real game-changer,” she said. “Unlike conventional monovision, which sets one eye for distance and the other for near, Presbyond customises vision across both eyes using micro-anisometropia and tailored laser profiles.
It’s been available in Europe and Asia since 2009, in Australia since 2020 and has only recently became available in Queensland, providing local access to this advanced treatment.
“Studies and clinical experience show Presbyond to be both safe and effective, delivering excellent distance and near vision with high patient satisfaction,” Dr Sonia says.
Myth #3: Laser vision correction only suits mild nearsightedness or younger people
Another misconception is that laser surgery only suits mild prescriptions or younger patients – but according to Dr Sonia, that’s not the case.
“Modern lasers can correct a wide range of prescriptions, from significant nearsightedness to farsightedness and astigmatism,” she says. “Smile and Smile Pro treats myopia with or without astigmatism through a minimally invasive incision. Lasik treats a broad range of refractive errors, while Presbyond offers advanced correction for presbyopia.
“Candidates must be at least 40 years old, but there’s no strict upper age limit – individuals in their 60s or even older can be suitable.”
Before recommending any procedure, a skilled surgeon will assess your corneal thickness, pupil size, tear film quality, prescription stability and overall eye health.
“They’ll also discuss your lifestyle and vision goals to create the best personalised plan for you – and may recommend one method over another, or advise against surgery if you have underlying eye conditions such as keratoconus, severe dry eye or uncontrolled diabetes,” Dr Sonia says.
Myth #4: The results won’t last
Worried about longevity?
“Don’t be,” says Dr Sonia. “Once your cornea is reshaped, it maintains that form for life. Most people enjoy decades of clear vision post-surgery without needing glasses or contacts.
“However, the natural ageing of the eye’s crystalline lens can still lead to presbyopia or cataracts, which affect everyone – whether or not they’ve had laser surgery.
“These age-related changes may require reading glasses or lens replacement surgery later in life.
“It’s also important to understand that while the initial correction is permanent, your vision may still evolve over time, and it’s possible you may need a touch-up procedure in the future.”
In conclusion, Dr Sonia says that laser vision correction can be life-changing for people aged 20 to 60 by freeing them from glasses and contacts and supporting an active lifestyle.
“It’s safe, effective and permanent for suitable candidates – with more than 10 million Smile procedures and countless Presbyond treatments reinforcing its global success,” she added.
“Whether you choose Lasik for its fast recovery, Smile/Smile Pro for its flapless precision, or Presbyond for presbyopia, you’ll be taking a clear step toward visual independence.”
If you’re ready to explore your options, schedule a consultation with Dr Sonia and the expert team at EyeHub who’ll assess your eyes, answer your questions and provide a tailored plan to help you reach your vision goals.
Here’s to a brighter future!
