SMILE EYE SURGERY

Clear vision is essential for virtually everything – our work, our daily activities, and our quality of life as such. Unfortunately, not everyone has a good natural vision. Eye conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, so-called refractive errors, are very common. Many people wear glasses or contact lenses to see well, but some consider them a great inconvenience. They just want to enjoy good vision without glasses or contacts. Thanks to medical advancements, this is possible. Minimally invasive surgery, for example, is quickly becoming the standard of care in many medical fields, also in refractive surgery.

All you Need to Know About SMILE Eye Surgery

Today, most refractive errors can be treated with Laser Vision Correction – very effectively, even gently. This is the case with SMILE, an advanced procedure that supports a comfortable patient experience. Whether Laser Vision Correction is right for you, depends on a variety of factors. Your eye doctor will be happy to assist you in finding the best option for your vision needs.

Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) Laser Eye Surgery is the latest advancement in Laser Vision correction. SMILE is a minimally invasive surgery done to correct myopia (nearsightedness) with outstanding results. Apart from myopia, it is also useful in treating mild astigmatism up to 5 diopters. As there is no flap there is minimal postoperative discomfort.

With the development of SMILE, a minimally invasive procedure has become available. It has quickly established itself as a gentle treatment option. A small piece of tissue (lenticule) is created inside the cornea with the laser and removed through a small incision. Minimally invasive means there is minimal Corneal Tissue intervention. Many of the upper layers of the cornea are unaffected. This offers the potential for preserved biomechanical stability of the eye and fast healing. SMILE is also a keyhole procedure, meaning that there are no flap-related complications or side effects. As a result corneal sensitivity, for the most part, is quickly recovered.

Visual recovery in general is fast. Patients can normally return to work, take a shower, or apply makeup shortly after surgery. Driving and sports activities are possible within a few days.

How is the Procedure Performed?
Treatment Step Comparison:

SMILE
LASIK, and its advanced form, with the development of SMILE, however, a minimally invasive procedure is now possible.

Prior to the Treatment
Anesthetic Eye Drops are applied to the Eye. An eyelid holder is used to prevent the eye from blinking during the procedure.

Creating the Lenticule
A small piece of Corneal tissue (lenticule) and a small incision are created inside the intact cornea.

Removing the Lenticule

The Lenticule is removed through the small incision with minimal disruption to the cornea.

Correcting the Error

Removing the Lenticule changes the shape of the cornea, correcting the refractive error.

The Advantages of SMILE are:

1. No Dry Eye problem as Corneal Nerves are preserved
2. Nil or very less pain postoperatively
3. Can go to work in 1-2 days
4. No Flap-Related problems like Flap displacement Flap Striae
5. Can use Mobile or Computer in 2-3 days
6. Can Apply Water in 2-3 days so can do Swimming early as very small 2-4 mm cut
7. Can play Games 1-2 days as Corneal Biochemical strength is strong
8. No Laser Ablation Required as it is Solid State 3rd Generation Laser
9. No Flap Formation Required
10. No Micro Keratome Related Problem
11. Can do Makeup after 2-3 days

Why SMILE is the Future in Laser Technology Primary being its Flapless, so it retains the Title

Reasons Why Smile is the Future in Laser Technology?

▸ Flapless retains the Biomechanical Strength of the Cornea

▸No risk of Flap Displacement and other flap-related complications. No Dry Eye Nerves responsible for tear regulation remain practically intact.

▸ Painless and least invasive

▸ Predictability Femtosecond Technology results are outstandingly accurate

▸ Fast Precise and convenient treatment

▸ Result is effective within 24 hours and stabilizes in few days

▸ For Smile / Contoura Lasik / Femto Lasik & Lasik Laser Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering SMILE Surgery, you probably have many questions. Some of the most frequent ones are addressed here. This information is not intended to replace consultation with your eye Doctor.

Who is Eligible for SMILE?
SMILE is used to correct nearsightedness, astigmatism, or both. As with other Laser Vision Correction methods, you will first need to undergo a detailed eye examination to determine whether you are a suitable candidate.
Many factors play a role, including the nature and degree of the refractive error, the curvature, and the thickness of the cornea. Your profession and hobbies are also important.

SMILE is an interesting option also for athletes engaged in contact sports, flight crews as well as military and rescue personnel.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The entire procedure takes about 10 minutes, the Laser Correction itself only 24 to 28 seconds.

There is no flap with PRK either. How does it differ from SMILE?
With PRK, the top layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed manually. The exposed deeper layers of the cornea are then ablated using an excimer laser. Disadvantages of PRK include pain and a long healing process. Stabilization of visual acuity also takes relatively long. PRK is not recommended for the treatment of High Myopia. SMILE also requires no flap. The recovery period and experience are similar to LASIK.

How do I prepare for my surgery?
If you wear contact lenses, most surgeons recommend switching to glasses a few days before surgery. You are advised not to apply makeup, lotions, or perfume the day you have surgery. Also, it is suggested that you arrange to have someone bring you home afterward.

Does it hurt?
The procedure is virtually painless. Anesthetic Eye Drops are used to numb the eyes.

What happens after Surgery?
Following Surgery, you will need to go home and rest. No bandage is required post Surgery. The patient goes home with open eyes. Eye drops and possibly other medications are typically prescribed to prevent infection and aid in the healing process. It is customary to have a post-op examination the next day. Further examinations are usually scheduled for the following weeks or months.

When can I return to my normal activities?
Every healing process is different. In most cases, visual acuity is very good in one or two days after the operation and stabilizes within one week. Normally you will be able to drive, work and participate in sports just 1-2 days following treatment.

Is it Safe?
Complications following SMILE Surgery are very rare, but cannot be completely ruled out. Your Eye Doctor will discuss these with you.