Seidi Voogre: “It is amazing to see things so clearly after ten years!”

Seidi underwent laser surgery at Silmalaser in April.

The code Seidi25 will give you a free pre-operative examination for laser surgery.

Read more about how the process went for Seidi and the biggest changes in her life since the laser surgery.

Why did you decide to have laser surgery?

My quality of life began to suffer. I couldn’t do my usual activities without glasses: playing darts, going to the shops, going to the gym, cycling.

How did glasses or contact lenses affect your daily life?

I was probably the worst glasses-wearer in the word because I was in denial probably until I finally decided to have the surgery. I didn’t take my glasses with me on purpose because “I can see”, when in reality I couldn’t see anything. Many people probably didn’t even know I had glasses. The glasses didn’t go with my outfit, make-up or whatever excuse I could find not to wear them. I also didn’t like the feeling of having frames around me. Of course, working as a teacher, driving a car and watching TV required glasses, so I did put them on for these activities. As soon as I did not critically need them, I took them off.

How did you find the experience at Silmalaser?

The preliminary examination was very thorough and informative. My pupils were comically large afterwards. I still had a lot of anxiety before the surgery, but in reality it was quick and painless. This “vacuum” was not painful for me, even though that was what I feared the most. The first hour after the surgery was the most unpleasant. My eyes and nose were watering. I went to bed for two hours and after that my vision was already completely clear. I couldn’t believe I could see so well and actually cried several times that day when I looked out the window because it made me so emotional. It is amazing to see things so clearly after ten years.

Do you have any acquaintances who have undergone this procedure? What was their experience like?

So many people I know have had the same surgery and the phrase I always hear from them is “best decision of my life”. I too can now say it was the “best decision of my life”.

What were you most afraid of before the laser procedure and what do you recommend for those who have similar fears?

For some reason, I was afraid it would hurt and I would want to close my eyes. For anyone with similar fears, I can say that there was absolutely no pain, and it was not possible to close my eyes, but I also did not feel the need to. Today’s technology and the staff at Silmalaser are simply so wonderful that there is nothing to fear.

How did you feel after the procedure, when your vision had recovered and you could see the world around you without glasses?

I was very emotional. I cried several times that day and the following days. I went to some of my favourite places and saw them with my own healthy eyes for the very first time. 

What has been the biggest change in your life thanks to the procedure?

I can’t decide on which change was the biggest. Everything in my life got much better. Already when I wake up in the morning, I feel the joy of seeing clearly.

How was your recovery from the surgery?

Recovery was very quick and easy. I used anti-inflammatory eyedrops and artificial tears for a week. Since then, I’ve been using artificial tears a couple of times a day. My eyes are not dry and there are no problems. 

What do you recommend for those who are thinking about having the procedure?

Just do it! If you’re fit for the surgery, there’s nothing more to think about.