Question 1

What is SMILE?

Accepted Answer

SMILE stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction and reduces or eliminates the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. In 2016, the FDA-approved the SMILE laser vision correction procedure to treat patients with nearsightedness and in 2018, the FDA approved the VisuMax laser used for SMILE for the treatment of nearsightedness and astigmatism, enabling a larger number of patients to be treated with SMILE too While the procedure was approved in the US in 2016, it has been available in other countries since at least 2006 with more than 5 million procedures performed worldwide. According to the American Refractive Surgery Council, over 600 clinical studies have shown that the SMILE is equally safe and effective as LASIK, with similar long term outcomes.

Question 2

What happens during the initial consultation for SMILE at Clearview Eye and Laser Medical Center?

Accepted Answer

During your complimentary consultation, we will examine and measure your eyes. We will:  Additionally, we will discuss your general health, any chronic health issues, the health of your eyes, any history of eye surgery or issues, your lifestyle and your goals and expectations. Then we will determine if SMILE laser vision correction is the best procedure for you to achieve the best possible vision for your eyes and lifestyle.

Question 3

What is done during the SMILE laser vision correction procedure?

Accepted Answer

Before beginning, the laser is programmed with the measurements taken during your comprehensive consultation. Your eyes will be numbed with eye drops and you will be given a mild sedative.. Then Dr. Feldman will place an eyelid holder on your eye to keep you from blinking during the procedure. Step 1: Create a thin disc of corneal tissue The Visumax femtosecond laser uses small gas bubbles to create a thin disc of tissue within the layers of the cornea without disturbing the surface of the cornea. The shape of the disc is like the shape of a contact lens -- it is thicker in the center and thinner at the edge.  The disc is called a lenticule.  Step 2: Remove the thin disc of tissue The laser creates a small opening -- approximately 4 mm in the length in surface of the cornea.. whose purpose is to remove the lenticule. Step 3: Vision correction is achieved The disc removal allows for a change in the shape of the cornea to improve vision.  The whole procedure takes about 15 minutes. And the small opening heals within a few days without stitches. Sharper vision is achieved very quickly.

SMILE LASIK Frequently Asked Questions

What is SMILE?

What happens during the initial consultation for SMILE at Clearview Eye and Laser Medical Center?

What is done during the SMILE laser vision correction procedure?

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