Siim Koppel: “My eyesight was clear and sharp already four hours after the surgery.”

What kind of work do you do? What are your hobbies?

I work as a draftsman and designer for a company that sells and designs water treatment equipment. Ever since I was a child, water has had a special meaning in my life. I have actually spent most of my life on the dance floor, as I danced competitively for 18 years. Nowadays, it’s more of a hobby. I give ballroom dancing classes and really enjoy it. In addition, I go to the gym three to four times a week. Exercise has become a natural part of my life; it gives me both physical and mental balance. 

Why did you decide to have laser surgery at Silmalaser?

To be honest, I did quite a lot of research on different clinics in both Estonia and Latvia. Going abroad didn’t feel right for me. For me, the most important thing was the doctors: who they are, what their background is, and what they specialise in on a daily basis. The experience and specialisation of the doctors at Silmalaser seemed to me the most trustworthy. In addition, the clinic has been operating for a long time and left me with a solid and reliable impression.

How long were you considering laser surgery and why did you choose Silmalaser?

I’ve been thinking about it for the last couple of years, but something always came up; it wasn’t the right time, or I had other things to do. One day, I just thought I’d book a consultation, without any expectations. I’ll just go for a check-up and see what happens. A few days later, I was already in surgery. It all happened very quickly and naturally.

What was your biggest fear before the surgery? What would you recommend for those who have a similar fear?

I wasn’t scared of the surgery itself; I was more worried about recovery. I’d heard different stories. Some said the recovery was difficult, others that it was very easy. It made me wonder how it would go for me. In fact, I didn’t need to worry. The surgery was painless and much quicker than I thought. And recovery? My eyesight was clear and sharp already four hours after the surgery. I would definitely advise others not to overthink it. Everything is actually much easier and more pleasant than we imagine.

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

The experience was just incredible. Just a few hours after the surgery, I went for a walk outside with sunglasses on. I deliberately started looking far away to check. Could I really see? And I could! Car number plates, smaller text on road signs, leaves on distant trees… details I couldn’t make out before with my glasses. It was honestly surprising and a real childlike thrill.

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

The biggest change has been in training. At the gym, my glasses kept falling off my nose, getting sweaty and greasy, and eventually the lenses got cloudy. I was training with dirty lenses. Now that worry is gone. In addition, there are many small everyday things that have become easier. For example, watching TV in the evening, my glasses used to get in the way, especially when I tried to lie on my side or get comfortable. The frames were constantly in my way, pressing against the pillow, and it was uncomfortable. Now all of that is gone, and I can just be free and enjoy a sharp, clear image.

What would you recommend for those considering the surgery?

To start with, it’s definitely worth going for a consultation. This step will ease most of your fears because you can meet the doctor yourself, ask your questions, and get tests done. If you just search for information online or watch YouTube videos, you’ll just end up thinking about it endlessly, but going to a consultation gets things moving. And even if you don’t decide to have the surgery right away, at least you will know the condition of your eyes.

What has been the most surprising thing for you since undergoing laser surgery?

What surprised me the most was how quickly everything happened and how quickly I recovered. On Monday, I had no idea that by the end of the week I would be without glasses. I had a consultation on Tuesday, had the surgery on Thursday, and that very evening, I saw the world with a whole new perspective. The pace and simplicity were really unexpected for me.