SMILE is an abbreviation for the term- Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. It is a comprehensive laser vision correction procedure using a femtosecond laser and computer-based technology. This surgery aims at providing patients with optimal improvement in their vision.
SMILE eye surgery is one of the most advanced procedures and is touted as a significant advancement in refractive surgical technology. The procedure is done to treat nearsightedness and astigmatism essentially. Here are the reasons why this procedure is so prominent:
The Procedure Is Less Invasive
Conventionally, in a vision correction procedure, the doctor makes an incision in the cornea’s upper-most epithelial layer, resulting in the formation of a flap. This is done to gain access to the inner corneal layer to allow the laser to penetrate in order to achieve the corrective procedure. On the other hand, SMILE is a no-flap surgery, meaning that only a tiny incision is made to your cornea. This way, there is reduced stress on your corneal tissue, making the procedure less invasive.
The Procedure Causes Minimal Pain Or Discomfort
Another reason why this procedure is highly reckoned is that the patients experience little to no pain. Before the procedure starts, the doctor puts eye drops to numb the area. You will also be provided with a calming medication to ease your nerves. These precautionary steps ensure that you do not experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
SMILE Eye Surgery Is Quick
This procedure is quick; you will be done in one and a half hours. However, the laser procedure lasts for thirty seconds on each eye. You are kept at the hospital for observation; the doctor will double-check all the measurements to ensure that you are comfortable. Once the medical team is certain that everything is alright, then only you are sent home.
The Results Of This Surgery Is Predictable
The steps of the whole procedure are precise and completed using advanced technology. Therefore, you can be more certain about the results. At the end of the surgery, you can rest assured to get optimized vision.
Patients Experience Lesser Side Effects
Side effects due to surgeries are one of the primary aspects that patients are constantly worried about. In SMILE eye surgery, you are not likely to experience dry eye syndrome, which is common to other vision correction laser procedures. On the whole, the side effects of this procedure are lesser than other similar surgeries.
People Who Are Not Qualified For LASIK Can Undergo This Procedure
Some patients dealing with certain eye conditions cannot opt for LASIK laser eye surgery. But these patients can choose SMILE eye surgery instead. The choice allows them to get their vision back painlessly and quickly.
The Bottom Line
If you wish to get SMILE eye surgery, you need to go for a complete eye examination to see whether or not you are the right fit for this procedure. After that, the refractive surgeon will guide you through the procedure and inform you regarding the side effects. The cost of SMILE eye surgery will be somewhat similar to what you will have to pay for LASIK surgery. Moreover, the cost will also differ based on the location and healthcare institute.
