SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) method, or removal of the lens through a small incision – a procedure that corrects myopia and astigmatism
SMILE is a minimally invasive ophthalmic procedure performed with a femtosecond laser. Currently, the SMILE method corrects myopia, astigmatism and a combination of both.
How the SMILE procedure works
An incision just 2-4 mm wide is made on the surface of the eye (an activity that takes an average of 23 seconds). After the eye is immobilized, the laser shapes the lens in the cornea’s dermis, which is its inner layer, and makes an access incision on the surface of the cornea, not exceeding 4 mm in width. The lens is then removed through this incision. Removing the lens changes the shape of the cornea, correcting the refractive error. The incision is so small that it seals itself after some time.
The femtosecond laser is designed to skip the upper layers of the cornea, focusing on the targeted inner layer. W SMILE method all of the upper layers of the cornea are therefore virtually intact, which guarantees its subsequent stability and means that discomfort is usually minimal during the healing period.
Advantages of myopia and astigmatism correction with the SMILE method:
- low invasiveness (minimal incision in the target corneal layer, without disturbing its upper layers),
- Minimal discomfort during healing,
- The procedure has less effect on the corneal nerves that stimulate the tear glands, making them better able to moisten the eye,
- Visual acuity is very good as soon as one or two days after the procedure and stabilizes within one week,
- Patients can drive, work, put on makeup and play sports in just a few days after surgery.
Currently, the SMILE method is not (yet) used to correct farsightedness.
