SMILE: The 3rd Generation Laser Vision Correction

In a relatively brief span of 30 years, refractive surgery (removing spectacles or eye glasses) has evolved through three generations of procedures: PRK, LASIK, and now SMILE. Each generation has made strides to make the procedure safer and with lesser side effects. This is especially true following the introduction of the Bladefree femtosecond laser as a substitute for the blade Lasik. A new type of refractive vision correction technique is now available as ReLEx SMILE. ReLEx Smile is an alternative to Lasik and beyond Lasik. SMILE is a safer, quicker procedure and leaves the anterior lamellae of cornea intact. Excimer Laser and Femtosecond laser is not required in ReLEx technology for the correction of vision. SMILE uses the CPA (Chirped Pulse Amplification) technology for which Arthur Askin and Donna Stickland have been awarded Nobel Prize in Physics 2018.
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Steps in ReLex SMILE Procedure

ReLEx SMILE, or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, is an innovative refractive surgery technique employed to correct vision issues like myopia and astigmatism. Unlike traditional LASIK procedures, ReLEx SMILE involves a minimally invasive approach that doesn’t require the creation of a corneal flap. This aspect distinguishes it from other laser eye surgeries and contributes to its growing popularity.

Step 1

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SMILE is a single step laser treatment. View of Cornea.

Step 3

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Laser, then creates an upper layer of lenticule inside the cornea of the eye.

Step 5

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The surgeon removes the lenticule through the small access from cornea.

Step 2

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Laser creates lower layer of lenticule inside Cornea.

Step 4

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A 4mm small incision being created to remove lenticule into the cornea.

Step 6

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SMILE removes the disadvantages of discomfort and long recovery of other surface treatments like LASIK. Experience the new clear world without spectacles.

Advantages of ReLex SMILE

A study published in the Journal of Refractive Surgery showed “considerably higher” postop tensile strength with SMILE than with either LASIK or PRK. Three disadvantages of LASIK are a) the increase in the tendency for dry eyes b) the small possibility of a flap displacement and c) weakening of the cornea because the flap does not contribute to the corneal strength. SMILE has a much shorter treatment time compared to LASIK.

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FAQs About SMILE Surgery

What is SMILE

It is an acronym for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE). It is a minimally invasive and innovative procedure wherein instead of the excimer laser ablating the cornea, the femtosecond laser is used to create a lenticule which is then extracted through a keyhole corneal incision (2-4mm incision compare to 20mm used in Lasik).

Why should I prefer SMILE?

It is completely painless and flapless procedure. 99% of complications in LASIK and Bladefree LASIK are due to the flap. Since SMILE has no flap, there are no flap related complications. It gives high stability in the long term with less chance of number coming back.

What are the key advantages of SMILE?

Shorter recovery time, No dry eyes, No flap related complications and safer procedure for patients engaged in active sports.

Is this procedure accurate?

YES. Not only it is highly accurate, it is also highly predictable and stable.

Is it safe?

It is very safe.

Am I a suitable candidate for SMILE surgery?

If you are 19 or older and your vision prescription has remained stable for at least a year, with a spectacle number of one or higher, you might be eligible for SMILE. A detailed eye examination will determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. This examination will also identify any potential risks involved.

Give your eyes the care they deserve—schedule your appointment with the finest ophthalmologists in the region.

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