SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) laser eye surgery is quickly becoming more common as a way to improve vision. It gives people an option to traditional LASIK surgery because it is less invasive. SMILE offers a solution for individuals with nearsightedness (myopia) or astigmatism that not only improves vision but also accelerates the healing process. To understand how SMILE laser eye surgery works, this article will break down the process into clear, step-by-step instructions.
Step 1: Consultation and Pre-Operative Examination
Before getting SMILE laser eye surgery, you must have a full consultation. Your eye doctor will check out your eye health and vision needs during this visit. They will do several tests on your eyes, such as measuring the thickness of your lens, looking at the shape of your eyes, and checking your eye health as a whole. This helps them figure out if you are a good fit for the SMILE procedure.
Individuals considering surgery should be in good health, have stable vision, and be at least 18 years of age. People with glaucoma or dry eyes may need to explore alternative treatments for their conditions. Your doctor will also talk to you about what to expect, any risks, and any pre-op directions.
Step 2: The Anesthesia Process
Anesthesia is the first step in the process on the day of the surgery. Traditional LASIK makes a flap on the eye. SMILE, on the other hand, doesn’t need a big flap. Instead, numbing eye drops are used by the surgeon to make sure you are comfortable during the process. As soon as the anesthesia kicks in, you won’t feel any pain or soreness during the surgery.
The eye is then held open gently with a small, specialized tool. This keeps the eye still while the laser makes the required corrections.
Step 3: Laser Creation of the Lenticule
The SMILE procedure utilizes a femtosecond laser, an exact device that performs the surgery. The first step of the procedure involves the creation of a lenticule, a small, disc-shaped piece of tissue within the cornea. The femtosecond laser creates precise cuts within the cornea, forming the lenticule at the correct location and depth. This laser ensures extreme accuracy, minimizing the potential for error.
The lenticule is carefully shaped to meet the patient’s specific vision correction requirements. This process is particularly beneficial for myopic patients as it addresses the root cause of their vision problem: the shape and curvature of the cornea.
Step 4: Lenticule Extraction
Once the lenticule is created, the surgeon will then proceed to remove it through a small incision. The incision used in SMILE is significantly smaller than the one used in LASIK, typically just 2-4 millimeters. This speeds up the recovery process and reduces the risk of complications.
The lenticular is gently extracted, which in turn reshapes the cornea. By removing this tissue, the refractive error is corrected, allowing light to focus more precisely on the retina and thereby improving vision.
Step 5: Post-Operative Care and Recovery
One of the best things about SMILE laser eye surgery is that it doesn’t take long to heal. Patients often experience less pain and recover faster after the operation because there is no large flap, and the incision is smaller. Within a day or two of surgery, most people can go back to doing everyday things like reading, working, and light exercise.
Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and ensure you are progressing as planned. They will also give you eye drops during this time to lower swelling and keep you from getting an infection.
Even though complete vision healing might take a few days, most people notice a big difference in their vision right away after surgery. Most people achieve a 20/25 vision or better, and many of them attain a 20/20 vision.
Step 6: Cost Considerations
While SMILE laser eye surgery offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider the cost when planning for the procedure. The cost of SMILE laser surgery can vary depending on the location and clinic. For instance, the SMILE laser cost London can range between £2,000 and £3,000 per eye. It’s essential to research various clinics and consult with your surgeon about payment options, financing, and whether your insurance covers the procedure. Keep in mind that while SMILE may have a higher upfront cost compared to LASIK, its advanced technology, fewer complications, and quicker recovery time make it an appealing choice for many patients.
Conclusion
SMILE laser eye surgery has changed the way people get their vision fixed. Patients can achieve better vision without the risks associated with traditional LASIK procedures, thanks to its precise and minimally invasive method. From the initial consultation to the recovery period after surgery, SMILE is a safe and effective treatment for nearsightedness and astigmatism, providing lasting results. As with any medical treatment, you should talk to your eye doctor in great detail to make sure you’re making the best choice for your eyes and vision.
Do Read: Understanding Lens Replacement: Procedures and Benefits
