Mark "Mac" Manicad is Ready for More

Published on: November 26, 2021

Back in September, Mark Manicad made a big decision – to undergo PRK surgery.

With an eye grade of 475, the actor-model known for his role as Police Captain Edwin Salonga in FPJ Ang Probinsyano booked a LASIK screening with Dr. Emerson Cruz and was qualified for PRK.

Photorefractive Keratectomy or PRK is a type of refractive surgery done to correct refractive errors, which are more commonly known as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. According to Asian Eye Cornea and Refractive/LASIK Surgeon Dr. Emerson Cruz, PRK is an alternative to LASIK. “LASIK is the more popular method, but PRK is also quick and painless. The end goal for both surgeries is to help improve the patient’s vision without having to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses.”

Often recommended to patients who have chronic dry eyes, thin corneas and high eye grade, PRK is done differently from LASIK and has longer healing time. He explained, “In LASIK, we use laser to create a corneal flap before we use another laser to reshape the cornea. We then return the flap to its original position. But in PRK, we scrape off the surface layer of the cornea using an alcohol-based solution; we then apply laser to reshape the cornea. A temporary bandage contact lens is then placed to protect the cornea while it’s healing.”

“You may feel discomfort the first few days after the PRK surgery,” Dr. Cruz added. “Over-the-counter medicines can help relieve it, and eye lubricants are needed to keep your eyes moist. The complete healing process may take one to three months.”

Days after his surgery, Manicad expressed his satisfaction with his treatment through an Instagram post:

Wala pang 1 week malinaw na mata ko sa PRK [LASIK] surgery. Guys, alam ko lahat tayo natatakot dahil sa movie na Final Destination hehe, MOVIE LANG YUN hehe pero trust me walang kahit konti na sakit, masakit pa ang facial. If kwentahin nyo un gastos natin sa contact lens at sa eyeglasses plus un hussle pa mas makaka mura pa tayo sa Lasik surgery, pero syempre dun tayo pagawa sa magaling at trusted, hindi un basta mura papagawa na, mata yan na pwede ikasira ng vision natin forever kung mas iisipin natin ang mura at kung saan saan mag papagawa. Book your appointment na sa @asianeyeinstitute ng Lasik screening if pasado kayo magpa Lasik para mas maliwanag at maaliwalas ang lahat. Thank you soooooo much Doc Emer Cruz of @asianeyeinstitute and Ms. @aphylicia ❤️ #byeEyeglasses #byeContactlens

He also shared how he felt safe during his clinic visits, “Maya’t-maya sila nagspray ng alcohol sa mga upuan, table at mga machine at lahat sila naka double mask at required ang rt-pcr test sa surgery kaya super safe sa kanila.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Cruz said that while vision-correcting surgeries like PRK has qualifications, patients don’t have to worry so much. “We have a wide range of options available like LASIK, PRK, TransPRK, Supracor and Implantable Contact Lenses. They just need to undergo LASIK screening, so we can see which treatment is best for their eye condition and lifestyle.”

Today, Manicad enjoys long motorcycle rides and out-of-town trips to de-stress and hassle-free tapings and shoots without his contact lenses. One of the main reasons he wanted to get his vision corrected was that he felt it would help him hone his craft. For actors, their eyes need to express emotion and long taping hours can mean eye discomfort when he wears contact lenses. Now he can focus on his acting, without worrying about dry or irritated eyes affecting his focus. Mac is now working on a new project. He is both nervous and excited about his new role, and we can’t wait to see him show more of his range as an actor.

Asian Eye offers the most comprehensive refractive options to fit your needs. Book a screening today at 50% off, or bring a friend and you can avail of the LASIK Buddy Screening E-GC. Get two LASIK screenings for only Php3,900. Plus, enjoy as much as 30% off on your LASIK/refractive surgery. Call us at 8-898-2020 or 0918-898-2020 to set an appointment, or check out our ongoing promos and discounts.

Asian Eye’s Dr. Robert Ang Wins Gold Medal at Cataract Olympics

At the recent American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Annual Meeting on April 8, 2024, Dr. Robert Ang of Asian Eye was awarded a prestigious Gold medal in the Cataract Olympics for his video presentation titled “Cataract Technology Hurdles.”

Held in Boston, Massachusetts, USA from April 05 to 08, 2024, the annual meeting featured the participation of outstanding ophthalmologists and eye care professionals from across the globe. The Cataract Olympics symposium provided a platform for teams from leading organizations such as ASCRS, APACRS, ESCRS, and LASCRS to showcase their expertise and compete in various cataract categories making Dr. Ang’s achievement even more remarkable.

Dr. Ang’s award-winning video focused on the critical aspect of astigmatism correction during cataract surgery and offered valuable insights into using Toric (astigmatism) IOLs. His impressive win coincides with Cataract Awareness Month this June, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cataracts and educating the public about available treatment options.

This video competition not only showcases the expertise and skills of specialists like Dr. Ang but also provides a platform for sharing knowledge and exchanging ideas with doctors worldwide regarding new technologies and surgical techniques. By leveraging the power of visual media, these educational resources help advance the field of cataract surgery and benefit patients globally.

Cataracts are an age-related eye condition, where the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Sometimes, it feels like looking at a fogged-up glass. If not treated, it can lead to blindness. Fortunately, surgery can be done to remove it. The ophthalmologist will remove the lens with cataract and replace it with an IOL. There are different kinds of IOLs available, all designed to improve vision.

Asian Eye takes great pride in the exceptional skills and expertise of their esteemed medical team, exemplified by the contributions of Dr. Robert Ang. Dedicated to providing patients with the highest standard of care, patients can have peace of mind when it comes to cataract surgery and other vision-related procedures at Asian Eye.

For more information about Dr. Robert Ang and the advanced ophthalmological services offered at Asian Eye, please visit www.asianeyeinstitute.com.

Cataract Awareness Month: Reclaim Your Freedom, Restore Your Sight

June is Cataract Awareness Month, and as a leading eye center in the Philippines, Asian Eye aims to celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of cataract screenings and drive more individuals to seek timely treatment for cataracts. Cataracts are a common concern among older Filipinos and one of the major causes of visual impairment. According to the Philippine Eye Research Institute, there are 1.18 million people suffering from cataracts, with roughly 400,000 needing surgery.

Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which can lead to symptoms such as blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to glare. It can lead to blindness if left untreated, so it’s essential to have them removed when they begin to interfere with your daily activities, such as driving, watching TV, or cooking.

Cataract surgery is a common procedure that involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens. Laser cataract surgery offers several advantages over traditional surgery, and Asian Eye is proud to offer patients with cutting-edge solutions for their eye care needs.

Asian Eye utilizes VICTUS Femtolaser technology from the renowned German brand Bausch + Lomb. This advanced technology is able to break up and remove the cloudy lens using significantly less energy, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues and promoting quicker healing.

Regular visits to your eye doctor are paramount, as they can advise you on the timing of the surgery and explain the benefits and risks involved. If you have an elderly loved one who complains of cloudy or blurry vision, consider giving them the gift of sight with the following Cataract Screening and Surgery deals:

40% off for one (1) cataract screening

50% off for two (2) or more cataract screenings

20% off on cataract surgery

*if scheduled within one (1) week after the screening or deposit is given within (2) weeks

It’s important to make informed decisions with a trusted eye care specialist and to book an appointment with Asian Eye to take proactive steps towards better vision and eye health.

Asian Eye Institute is located at Phinma Plaza, Rockwell Center, Makati with satellite offices located in TriNoma, Quezon City, and Mall of Asia, Pasay City. For inquiries and appointments, you may call 8898- 2020 or send an email to [email protected].

Dr. Robert Ang Recognized as one of the Top 100 in “The Power List 2024” by The Ophthalmologist

Dr. Robert Edward Ang, a distinguished specialist in Cataract, Glaucoma, and Cornea and Refractive Surgery (LASIK) at the Asian Eye Institute, has been honored once again by The Ophthalmologist Magazine in its prestigious 2024 Power List as one of the top 100 most influential eye care professionals in the world. Dr. Ang, notably the only Filipino listed, reaffirms his status with this second recognition. The first time he was listed in the top 100 was in 2018, highlighting his sustained contributions and leadership in the global ophthalmology community.

About Dr. Robert Edward Ang

As the Director of the Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service at the Asian Eye Institute, Dr. Ang is celebrated for his expertise in LASIK surgery and his pioneering research on technologies that enhance the diagnosis and treatment of various eye conditions. As the Director for Research and Training, his collaborative work with leading pharmaceutical and medical device companies has led to innovations in cataract intraocular lenses, presbyopic laser treatments, and minimally invasive glaucoma devices.

His accolades include multiple Best Paper of Session Awards from the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), the Certified Educator Award from the Asia Pacific Association of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (APACRS), the Presidential Recognition Award from the International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS), the Geminiano de Ocampo Outstanding Researcher in Ophthalmology Award from the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) and the Senior Achievement Award from the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO).

Dr. Ang’s consistent recognition on such a significant global platform not only underscores his dedication and skill but also serves as an inspiration to current and aspiring ophthalmologists worldwide. His achievements continue to showcase the excellence and innovation present in Philippine medical practices.

Explore and Connect

Dr. Robert Ang has ongoing research projects on cataract, glaucoma, refractive lenses and laser eye surgery. To learn more about Dr. Ang’s impactful work and explore if, as a patient, you would like to be part of the pioneering research and eye care services at the Asian Eye Institute, please visit our website at asianeyeinstitute.com. For appointments, please refer to the contact details below:

ROCKWELL (Main Clinic)

8th, 9th, and 10th Floors, PHINMA Plaza

Rockwell Center, Makati City

LANDLINE (02) 8-898-2020

MOBILE 0918-898-2020

EMAIL [email protected]

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