SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a type of laser eye surgery that corrects myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. During the procedure, a femtosecond laser is used to create a small incision in the cornea and remove a disc-shaped piece of tissue, which reshapes the cornea and improves vision.
Positive aspects of SMILE:
- SMILE is a minimally invasive procedure that requires a smaller incision than other laser eye surgeries.
- The outer layer of the cornea does not have to be removed, which can help maintain corneal stability.
- Corneal nerves that stimulate tear glands are less affected, which can reduce the risk of dry eye syndrome.
- SMILE can correct high diopters of myopia and myopic astigmatism, up to 10 D (spherical equivalent) .
Negative aspects of SMILE:
- Separating the lenticule from the stroma can be technically difficult, which can make it challenging for surgeons to perform the procedure.
- SMILE is a newer technology compared to LASIK, so there is less long-term data available on its safety and efficacy.
- SMILE is not suitable for everyone, and some people may still require glasses or contact lenses after the procedure.
Ingredients or materials used in SMILE:
- The procedure uses a femtosecond laser to create a small incision in the cornea and remove a disc-shaped piece of tissue.
- The lasers high peak intensity over a very short pulse duration allows it to create micro-precision single holes (bubbles) that form together cuts or planes in the corneal tissue without affecting the surrounding tissue.
In summary, SMILE is a type of laser eye surgery that corrects myopia and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. It is a minimally invasive procedure that requires a smaller incision than other laser eye surgeries, and it can correct high diopters of myopia and myopic astigmatism. However, it is a newer technology compared to LASIK, and there is less long-term data available on its safety and efficacy. The procedure uses a femtosecond laser to create a small incision in the cornea and remove a disc-shaped piece of tissue.