LASIK / SMILE LASIK
What is SMILE LASIK?
SMILE LASIK, also known as ReLex SMILE, is the newest version of laser vision correction. SMILE, which stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, consists of one painless laser step lasting less than 30 seconds. As with all types of laser vision correction, you are able to get up from the treatment and see an immediate improvement, though final vision (as with all types of laser vision correction) takes about three months. Over 5 million SMILE treatments have been performed world-wide.
SMILE LASIK is performed with the VisuMax laser, created by Zeiss. The VisuMax laser technology is truly amazing. The laser creates 500,000 tiny spots every second. These spots are placed very close to each other and free up a thin layer (similar to a contact lens) within the center of the cornea. The laser also creates a small tunnel connecting the thin layer to the outside of the eye. The doctor then reaches in through the tunnel, frees up the thin lens, and pulls it out. Removal of this thin lens changes the curvature of the eye, correcting the focus of the vision.
SMILE LASIK can only be achieved with the VisuMax laser by Zeiss. Only this laser has the necessary precision to perform this procedure. At the Caster Eye Center, we use the VisuMax laser not only to perform SMILE, but also to perform the first step of the all-laser LASIK procedure. Because this laser places so little pressure on the eye, treatment with this laser is pain-free. (For our engineer types, the VisuMax laser is the only femtosecond laser that is opto-electronic; all other femtosecond lasers are opto-mechanical in design.)
SMILE Advantages and Disadvantages
SMILE LASIK has some advantages and disadvantages compared to all-laser LASIK.
Advantages
- There is no flap with SMILE LASIK. The treatment is performed completely within the interior of the cornea, so there is no flap at all. Patients do not have to worry about a flap that can be moved or disturbed in the future. You do not need to use goggles to protect your eyes during the initial few days after this procedure.
- There is a little less short-term dryness with SMILE LASIK. Because there is no flap, fewer of the corneal nerves are affected, leading to less short-term dryness. You therefore need to use less moisturizing drops during the initial healing after the procedure.
Disadvantages
- Enhancement (fine-tuning procedure) of SMILE LASIK cannot be performed with SMILE, but must be performed with LASIK laser treatment. Enhancements are performed in about 4% of patients.
SMILE LASIK is one option that we offer our patients to create excellent vision and eliminate the need for glasses and contact lenses. At the Caster Eye Center, we specialize exclusively in all versions of LASIK laser vision correction. As one of the very few practices that specializes exclusively in this subspecialty, we have the expertise, technology, trained staff, and superb doctor to bring you the best vision possible. You will notice the detailed knowledge and compassion each time you interact with us. You will also be meeting with Dr. Caster each and every time you come to our office, from the first consultation through your procedure and all of your post-treatment visits.
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