Vision correction surgery, like LASIK, has allowed millions of people the opportunity to break free from glasses and contact lenses. The SMILE procedure is the newest advancement in the field and our latest offering in vision correction surgery. It offers the same freedom as LASIK in a less invasive form.
What is SMILE?
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a state-of-the-art laser eye surgery for the correction of myopia (nearsightedness).
Using a computer-guided laser, the surgeon creates a tiny lens-shaped lenticule and then a small incision to gain access to this lenticule. The SMILE laser allows for the lenticule to be extracted and the curvature of the cornea to be reshaped.
What are the benefits of SMILE?
The SMILE procedure provides similar results to LASIK, but with a few additional benefits:
Less invasive, no-flap surgery
During LASIK, the surgeon uses one laser to create a small “flap” of corneal tissue and then uses another laser to reshape the cornea and correct vision.
With the SMILE procedure, only one laser is used, reducing time. The incision is also smaller. SMILE reduces the chance of “flap-related complications” which are rare with LASIK, but can occur.
Reduced Post-Op dry-eye
The SMILE Procedure has an overall smaller impact on the eye surface and corneal nerves than LASIK. This decreases the length of dry eyes post-operation, a side effect of any vision correction surgery.
How does SMILE differ from LASIK?
Both SMILE and LASIK procedures are treatment options for myopia (nearsightedness). Nearsightedness is caused when light rays enter a non-accommodating myopic eye and are focused too strongly in the front of the retina.
In LASIK, a flap is created in the cornea using a femtosecond laser and then an excimer laser reshapes the cornea.
The biggest difference with the SMILE procedure is how the portion of the cornea being reshaped is removed through a small incision, therefore eliminating the need for a flap. This decrease both procedure and recovery time.
Who qualifies for the SMILE procedure?
The SMILE procedure is a possible solution for anyone who suffers from myopia or nearsightedness.
Life after SMILE
There are multiple treatment options to choose from. The SMILE procedure provides myopia patients with results similar to LASIK, but with the added benefit of quicker recovery time due to its less invasive nature. Patients should see the results in only a few days.
The main benefit of vision correction surgery is the time you get back. No more looking for eyeglasses and no more dealing with contact lenses. Life after the SMILE procedure is a life with more freedom.
