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About Me

About Me
CrystalPhuong.net is a Personal Style & Travel Blog based in Singapore, written by Crystal Phuong. The blog was nominated FOUR times in Top 10 Best Fashion Blogs in the annual Singapore Blog Award from 2012- 2015, voted as one of the Best Lifestyle Blogs in Singapore in 2013 by Hotelclub.com, and Best Travel Blogs in 2016 by Foodpanda.com. Crystal hopes to connect and inspire young women to lead a healthy and happy life. Be confident, be positive, and be kind.
Showing posts with label COLLABORATION. Show all posts
Showing posts with label COLLABORATION. Show all posts
MY SAFE SIGHT TRANSPRK LASIK EYE SURGERY

MY SAFE SIGHT TRANSPRK LASIK EYE SURGERY


Crystal Phuong- Lasik eye surgery journey

One week before Singapore went into lockdown due to Covid-19, I went to have my Lasik surgery done. It was on April 1st 2020. When I told my family that I would have my surgery done on April's Fool, everyone thought I made a joke. No pun intended. What a special day for surgery! Who would want to be the clinic or hospital right in the middle of the pandemic? I know, right? But here is the full story. 

I forgot when exactly I started wearing glasses. It was probably when the doctor told me I had astigmatism with myopia during my secondary school. I didn't have any problem wearing glasses during my teenage years. Until I turned 20 years old, I started dancing and competing, and it became a problem. No dancer wore glasses on the dance floor for safety reasons, and neither did I. As a result, the only person I could see was my dance partner (I didn't know about contact lens just yet). I only learned how to wear contact lenses when I was 26 years old, and I relied on contact lenses ever since. I was able to see the audience when I performed dancing or competing. But I had to apply eye drop every 30 minutes to avoid dryness. A few times, when I went out at night and forgot to bring the eye drop, my eyes were so dry by the end of the night that I had to take the contact lenses out so that I could blink. I'm not exaggerating. Because of this, I've wanted to do Lasik surgery for nearly ten years. If you follow my blog since 2012, you'll see "Getting Lasik eye-surgery done" on my New Year resolution list since 2013. 

Why didn't I do it when I was 26 years old? Well, I couldn't afford it then. It was more affordable to buy six boxes of contact lenses for $200++, which lasted for six months than to pay almost $5000-$7,000 for a 30-minute procedure. Another reason was I was skeptical. I was so afraid of the risk, side effects, and possible accident could happen. I could lose my eyesight forever. There are so many articles, comments, recommendations, blog posts on the internet. The more I read, the more I got confused. There are also so many types of Lasik surgery nowadays: LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis, PRK (photorefractive keratectomy), LASEK (laser epithelial keratomileusis), RLE (refractive lens exchange), EpiLasik, PRELEX. How would I know which one suits me? After months of researching, I decided to make an appointment with Dr. Tony Ho at Clearvision Eye Clinic & LASIK Centre. Lucky for you now, all you need to do is to read the detailed comparison that Dr. Ho wrote on his website to find out what option is most suitable for you. 


I knew Dr. Tony Ho and his clinic back in 2013 when I worked in an advertising company for the medical industry. But he had already operated his clinic since 2001 and performed thousands of surgery every year. Many local media channels featured his clinic and interviewed him for the work that he had done. If you want to know more about Dr. Tony Ho and the clinic, you can read more on his clinic website here. My point is, if I was to leave my eyesight into someone's hand, I wanted to have a reputable and experienced doctor. I made the first appointment with the clinic to have my eyes tested and confirm my eyes were suitable for Lasik surgery. Multiple tests and a few types of eye-drops later, clinic staff said I could consider Safe Sight TransPRK surgery and Corneal Cross-Linking as an additional treatment to strengthen my thin corner. She also shared with me the pricing for both procedures. I already saw the pricing published on the clinic website, so there wasn't any surprise at that point. The pricing transparency of the clinic made it so easy for me to make a decision. That's why I scheduled the surgery date on the spot. Besides, since the whole country went into lock down, I couldn't go out anyway. It felt like the right time to have the surgery and rest at home. 

On April 1st, I woke up early, had my breakfast, and went to the clinic to have my Safe Sight TransPRK surgery. I sounded like I was going for a brunch, didn't I? But the reality was, I was so nervous yet excited at the same time. I was going to make my ten-year dream come true. How could I not be excited! 

When I arrived, the nurse did a few more tests on my eyes, applied a few anesthetic eye drops, and got me ready for the surgery. I decided to do Safe Sight TransPRK surgery and Corneal Cross-Linking (because I have thin corneal) on both eyes at once. Some patients did only one eye at a time so they could see after. I decided to do both because I didn't want to go through the same procedure twice. I'd rather endure the pain all at once. 

Crystal Phuong- Lasik eye surgery journey

Crystal Phuong- Lasik eye surgery journey

Back to the surgery, Safe Sight TransPRK surgery is an all-laser, one-step, no-touch, non-invasive vision correction procedure that does not require the eye surgeon to cut a corneal flap. The standard LASIK (cut, flap, and zap) process might have flap-related medical complications, which are my ultimate fear. Thankfully, with the new technology, no surgical devices are touching the eye at all. Clearvision Clinic uses the Schwind Amaris 1050RS excimer laser machine with a zero-latency eye tracker and the ability to track all 7-dimensions of eye movements. The procedure on both eyes was much faster than I expected. I thought I would be lying in the surgery bed for at least 30 minutes. It turned out I was there for 15 minutes or less. First, I was asked to keep looking at the blinking green eyes. Then, the Schwind Amaris 1050RS machine removes the epithelium cells of my eyes. After that, the laser machine shapes the cornea to correct the eye's refractive power. Doctor Ho placed a transparent, high-oxygen permeability content soft contact lens over the cornea to protect the treated surface while the epithelium cells regenerate. The Corneal Cross-Linking treatment took additional two minutes to complete. Before I got comfortable in the warm bed, the nurse helped sit me up, and Doctor Ho asked me to smile for a photo. The surgery was over, just like that. 


Crystal Phuong- Lasik eye surgery journey

Everything was smooth, fast, and simple. The only discomfort I had was having to keep my eyes wide open for a long time, but that was it. I was still able to see when I squinted my eyes. I even booked a taxi, came home by myself, and went straight to bed, hoping to get some rest.

The pain started kicking in once I laid in bed. The numbing eye drop wore off. My eyes were so sore and watery that I had to take a pain killer. Unfortunately, I couldn't sleep at all. I lived in complete darkness for the first two days. Now I knew why some people decided to have surgery on one eye at a time, especially when they were alone. I didn't think I needed someone to bring me food and drink post-surgery. I thought I could manage, but I clearly couldn't. Thankfully, some "angels" came to rescue the poor girl. I'm lucky that I have so many kind friends around. One friend helped me order food; others came to the house to check up on me and set my daily eye drop reminders. Speaking of eye drops, I've never had so many eye drops in my entire life. There were four eye drop types that I needed to apply hourly on the first two days, and every two hourly the following three days. It was overwhelming. But everything comes with a price. That's the effort you put to have perfect eyesight.  

Crystal Phuong- Lasik Eye Surgery

Crystal Phuong- Lasik Eye Surgery

Day 5, after surgery, I was able to walk around the house (with sunglasses on) and managed my routine. The eyes were less sore, but the vision was still blurry, and I couldn't see much. I went back to the clinic on day 5 to have the soft contact lens removed. 

Crystal Phuong- Lasik Eye Surgery

I barely looked at my phone, TV, or laptop and still wore sunglasses during the day to avoid direct sunlight. I was super diligent with my post-op care and followed the doctor's advice strictly. 
  • I did not rub or squeeze my eyes, especially for the 1st week. I used eye wipes to gently clean my eyes every morning and night. 
  • I didn't apply any makeup and eye gel or lotion for nearly three weeks. 
  • I didn't go swimming or do any vigorous sports activities until after four weeks post-surgery.
  • I wore UV protected glasses when I went out. I still wear sunglasses now whenever I'm out of the house on a sunny day. 
My eyes took longer than others to recover fully, so I had more reviews with Dr. Ho. I was a little nervous, and of course, impatient, but there was nothing I could do. Dr. Ho assured me that my eyes were healing beautifully, and that's all that matters. 

Eight months after my eye Lasik surgery, I can finally share my personal story with you. I took the below 2 photos after my eyes were completely healed. Same Crystal, different eyes sight. Writing this blog post without the help of contactless and glasses makes me feel incredibly grateful. I'm so thankful for the smooth & successful surgery at Clearvision Eye Clinic & LASIK Centre. Special thanks to Dr. Ho & his team for their excellent work. I'm thankful for the friends who were there when I needed help the most. It was a dream come true to say goodbye to contactless and prescription glasses finally. 

Officially crossed this off my bucket list. 

Crystal Phuong- Lasik Eye Surgery

Crystal Phuong- Lasik Eye Surgery

Thank you so much for reading! 

Disclaimer: Although this blog post is partially sponsored by Clearvision Eye Clinic & LASIK Centre, all opinions are my own. 

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WITH LOVE FROM MY KHE

WITH LOVE FROM MY KHE


Crystal Phuong- Travel Blog- My Khe Beach, Da Nang

As I am writing this blog post, I'm actually craving for some vitamin-sea at the moment. I miss the crystal-clear beach with mild waves and a stunning mountain view of My Khe Beach Da Nang. No wonder it was named as "one of the most attractive beaches on the planet" by Forbes magazine. 

I knew about Da Nang before, but I never made an effort to visit. Perhaps, it's the thought "It's in Vietnam. It's at home. I can go there anytime" that stopped me from going. But when I was standing on that fine sand beach, I started questioning myself: "What have I been doing? I traveled to many countries to see their beautiful beaches, not knowing that I have a breathtaking one in my motherland."

We get so busy with our everyday life that we often neglect things around us. Once in a while, a trip to the beach helps to clear my mind and reminds me of what I have been missing. 

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blog- My Khe Beach, Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blog- My Khe Beach, Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blog- My Khe Beach, Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blog- My Khe Beach, Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blog- My Khe Beach, Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blog- My Khe Beach, Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blog- My Khe Beach, Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blog- My Khe Beach, Da Nang

Thank you so much for reading! 

::Outfit::
Privacy Please maxi dress- (Thanks to REVOLVE)
Tom Ford sunglasses- Other choices here

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DAY DREAMING IN DA NANG

DAY DREAMING IN DA NANG


Crystal Phuong- Travel Blogger- Day Dreaming in Da Nang

After many years, I finally visited Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam well-known for its sandy beaches and rich history. As a first-timer, I didn't know what to expect, but as far as I was told by the non-Vietnamese travelers, this place would take your heart away. So I packed my back, booked a flight, reserved a hotel and started counting down to the trip. 

After a two-hour flight from Singapore, I was here. What greeted me was this stunning mountain range and an endless ocean view. The seagulls came in the picture as a bonus. Just walking around the Pham Van Dong Park, watching the seagulls while listening to the sound of waves was so relaxing. I thought I was daydreaming. 

If you plan to visit Da Nang, I highly recommend you to put this place on your to-visit list. 

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blogger- Day Dreaming in Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blogger- Day Dreaming in Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blogger- Day Dreaming in Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blogger- Day Dreaming in Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blogger- Day Dreaming in Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blogger- Day Dreaming in Da Nang

Crystal Phuong- Travel Blogger- Day Dreaming in Da Nang

Thank you so much for reading! 

::Shop my outfit here::
Privacy Please maxi dress- Thanks to Revolve 
Miu Miu slingback pumps- Similar here
Valentino handbag- More affordable choices here
Tom Ford sunglasses- Similar here




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FALL FOR KIMORA LEE SIMMONS

FALL FOR KIMORA LEE SIMMONS


Crystal Phuong x Kimora Lee Simmons: Bomber jacket 4

When I was much younger, I always reminded myself to be strong, be independent, and be ambitious. Living abroad alone taught me many valuable lessons. It put me through many survival tests that I had never imagined. Being bullied, cheated, and taken for granted. I had "tasted" them all. I told myself not to cry because crying only showed the weaknesses. I chose to wear a biker leather jacket over a dress to suit my strong personality. I aways looked like I was ready for a battle. 

As I grow older, I've learned that being strong is never about winning. It's about learning a lesson from my failures and mistakes and never give up. I learned how to be positive in the most negative situation. I'm grateful for everything I have in life. I remind myself to always treat people with respect and kindness. By focusing on improving myself instead of worrying about how people think of me, I become a much happier person. 

My definition of a "strong woman" has changed since then. 

A strong woman to me is someone who can play multiple roles in her life and be good at what she does. She knows what she wants and how to achieve her goals. She is passionate and compassionate. She radiates happiness and positivity everywhere she goes. Every time I discover a brand that caters to confident and strong women. I'm instantly connected. Kimora Lee Simmons is one of those brands. Like I mentioned in the first blog post, KLS, designed by Kimora Lee Simmons herself, is a fashion brand for the women who go places. KLS clothes not only unleash the beauty and confidence in any woman but also help her to look polished at any event throughout the day. This bomber jacket from KLS Fall Winter 2016 is an example. I put it on and I was head over heels in love with it. I can't find any reason why you shouldn't give it a try. 

Crystal Phuong x Kimora Lee Simmons: Bomber jacket 2

Crystal Phuong x Kimora Lee Simmons: Bomber jacket

Crystal Phuong x Kimora Lee Simmons: Bomber jacket 3

Crystal Phuong x Kimora Lee Simmons: Bomber jacket 5


Crystal Phuong x Kimora Lee Simmons: Bomber jacket 6

Crystal Phuong x Kimora Lee Simmons: Bomber jacket 7

Crystal Phuong x Kimora Lee Simmons: Bomber jacket 8

Crystal Phuong x Kimora Lee Simmons: Bomber jacket 9

Thank you so much for reading! 


::Outfit::
Zara flare pants- Similar here
Carolina Herrera bracelet
Nasty Gal chiffon top (old)- Similar here
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LET YOUR VEST DO THE TALKING

LET YOUR VEST DO THE TALKING


Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016


I was in New York last Fall to attend some fashion shows during New York Fashion Week. There were many great shows this season. Among all, the Kimora Lee Simmons Spring Summer 2017 was definitely one of my favorites. Kimora Lee Simmons is well-known as a famous fashion model. Guess what? She is also the beautiful face behind her successful fashion brand, KLS.

Kimora Lee Simmons is a woman on the go. She splits her time being a mom of four kids, being a designer, and being a CEO of her fashion empire. Simmons channels a strong and confident woman through her designs. That's why I felt connected with her clothes the moment I first saw them. Not only are they beautiful, but are also super versatile. They take a woman from day to night, yet still make her look polished and pulled-together.

This Anderson vest from the Fall Winter 2016 collection is an example. You can wear it as a dress or a sleeveless coat over a turtleneck sweater and white leg pants like I styled it here. I wish words can describe exactly how I felt when I put on a beautiful long vest that fit me like a glove. It made me feel confident, classy, and strong.

If you have never had that experience with clothes. Then I'll suggest you should try out some of KLS pieces. I'm pretty sure their clothes will make you feel beautiful inside and out. Thank me later if you want.

Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016

Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016


Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016

Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016

Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016

Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016

Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016

Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016

Crystal Phuong- Kimora Lee Simmons Fall Winter 2016

Thank you so much for reading! 

::Outfit:
Anderson long vest- Thanks to Kimora Lee Simmons
Carolina Herrera bracelet- Similar here
Uniqlo turtleneck sweater- Similar here
Zara white leg pants- Similar here
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IT'S THAT SPARKLING TIME OF THE YEAR

IT'S THAT SPARKLING TIME OF THE YEAR


Crystal Phuong- Merry Christmas 2016

It's that sparkling time of the year when the streets are filled with bright neon lights and colorful ornaments, I'll start thinking of something special for you. Last year was a white Christmas card. This year, I created a simple card, inspired by this green sequin dress (thanks to REVOLVE) and the blue Tiffany's Christmas wall.  

Thank you so much for your love and support. I'll share my 2016 in review in the next blog post, but for now, I wish you and your family a very merry Christmas. Wherever you are, whatever you do, or whatever struggles that you are facing right now, I hope you can put it down for a moment, spend some time with your loved ones. Even if you are alone, take a minute to appreciate what you have in life, enjoy every little thing that comes your way. Most importantly, be healthy and be happy. 

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! 

Crystal Phuong- Merry Christmas 2016

Crystal Phuong- Merry Christmas 2016

Crystal Phuong- Merry Christmas 2016

Crystal Phuong- Merry Christmas 2016

Crystal Phuong- Merry Christmas 2016

Crystal Phuong- Merry Christmas 2016

Crystal Phuong- Merry Christmas 2016

Crystal Phuong- Merry Christmas 2016

Thank you so much for reading!

Photos by: Zoey Bui

::Outfit::
Sequin heels- Thanks to Forever21
Lovisa jewelry- Similar here

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