I Did TransPRK in JB: Safe or Sus? (Cost, Pain & Real Review!)
Hello Zesties! 🍋
I’ve been wanting to fix my eyesight for a super long time. Recently, I went for TransPRK in Johor Bahru. (I do have a excel sheet for SG clinics)
If you're wondering if it’s safe, how much it costs, and whether it’s worth the trip, here is my completely honest experience.
👀 The Clinic: Wait, is it safe?
I chose OasisEye Specialists at Setia Indah (it’s only about 10 minutes away from Mount Austin).
If you are worried about standard of care, OasisEye is actually one of Malaysia's leading, doctor-led eye care networks. My procedure was fully done by a consultant surgeon. The clinic itself is incredibly clean and professional.
💰 The Damage: Singapore vs JB Price tag
Here is exactly what I paid:
Eye Assessment: RM100 (Note: This was a weekday rate. Weekends cost RM200).
TransPRK Procedure: RM3,600 (Promo price! The usual price is RM4,500).
What's included: The procedure itself, your first round of medications, and your first two follow-up reviews.
Compared to Singapore prices, apart from our very qualified doctors. (No hate I’m just broke) TransPRK is all about precise computer calculations. The laser does the work; the doctor isn’t cutting anything or touching your eye manually. To me, the tech is the same and generally all consultants can calculate.
The same procedure would set you back 4000-6000SGD
⚡ The Procedure: What actually happens?
They lead you into a room with the laser machine (fun fact: it’s the exact same machine used in SG clinics). They apply numbing drops, and then it's go-time:
1. The doctor uses a medical tool to keep your eye open and asks you to stare directly into the laser light.
2. As the laser works, the green light starts to dissipate. The doctor then pours a cooling liquid into your eye and pops in a protective bandage contact lens.
3. Switch sides, repeat for the next eye, and you're done!
🛑 The Pain Factor (Be Warned!)
During surgery: Absolute zero. You don’t feel a thing thanks to the numbing drops.
After surgery: YES. Very much yes.
I majorly underestimated the recovery and decided not to take any painkillers. Big mistake.
For the first couple of days, it felt like I wanted to rip my eyes out. Cookies didn't even work!
Update: I am currently on Day 3 post-surgery, and the pain has finally subsided. I'm completely fine without painkillers now, but please don't be a hero—take the meds they give you!
📝 Important Logistics: MCs & Insurance
Can you use a Malaysia MC in Singapore?
This depends entirely on your company's HR policy. To play it safe, I went to a clinic in Singapore afterward. They were kind enough to do a quick reassessment and issue me a local 5-day MC.
The Fine Print: Just like in Singapore, you will have to sign a waiver stating you can't sue if complications arise. Also, keep in mind that most standard insurance policies do not cover elective vision correction.
💊 My Top Recovery Advice
1️⃣If you decide to go for it, start taking Omega-3 (1000mg) and Vitamin C (1000mg) daily! There is solid scientific backing showing that patients who take these supplements recover significantly faster from surface ablation procedures like TransPRK.
2️⃣If you’re considering any clinics at all - take a look at the MCC and consider clocking some miles.
3️⃣prepare audiobooks/podcast beforehand. You have like 30 mins after surgery before the pain comes in so get everything before your surgery
4️⃣ if you do decide on the same clinic that I did - stock up on eye drops (I used hylo gel and evolve as I didn’t like the eyedrops they gave - Artelac Splash)
Final Verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Having gone through the TransPRK procedure at OasisEye Specialists in Johor Bahru myself, I’d like to share a few additional takeaways from my personal experience that could help anyone considering this treatment. Firstly, choosing a clinic with advanced equipment and skilled surgeons is crucial. OasisEye Specialists impressed me with their state-of-the-art laser technology—which, as I mentioned, is the same as used in top Singapore clinics—and a clean, professional environment. This equipment usage inspired me to feel confident about the precision and safety of the procedure. During recovery, I realized that managing the pain was much tougher than anticipated. From what I’ve learned, wearing protective bandage contact lenses for the initial days is vital as they shield the sensitive corneal surface while it heals. The cooling liquid applied post-laser also adds comfort immediately after surgery. One thing I found indispensable was stocking up on high-quality lubricating eye drops. While the clinic provided Artelac Splash drops, I personally preferred alternatives like Hylo Gel and Evolve drops for better comfort and faster relief. This helped reduce dryness—a common post-surgery symptom that can add to discomfort. For those planning the trip, consider that local Medical Certificates (MCs) may not always be accepted by employers in Singapore, so preparing for a follow-up consultation locally, as I did, can smooth administrative requirements. Regarding supplements, I strongly support taking Omega-3 and Vitamin C daily starting before the surgery, as these nutrients aid corneal healing and reduce inflammation effectively. Finally, preparing mentally and physically with audiobooks or podcasts to listen to during the procedure was a great distraction technique. Since the procedure itself is quick but the following hours can be uncomfortable, having a calming activity or entertainment ready can make a significant difference. Overall, going through TransPRK at OasisEye was a worthwhile investment in my eyesight, especially considering the cost benefits compared to Singapore. If you manage the pain carefully and follow post-op advice diligently, this laser correction can truly restore your vision safely and efficiently.
