For more than 30 years, LASIK has been used in refractive laser eye surgery in Los Angeles. Additional techniques are also available for better options like the small incision lenticule extraction, also known as SMILE. SMILE is a refractive surgery procedure that offers similar results to advanced LASIK. However, compared to LASIK, this procedure has limited issues. This procedure can be performed using the VisuMax equipment. Learn more about this procedure as shared by experts from the LASIK eye center in Los Angeles.
Procedure
The SMILE procedure is known best for people with dry and irritated eyes. Using this procedure for vision correctness can decrease the disruption on the surface of the eyes, which could bring discomfort to the patient. SMILE gives a more gentle healing process on the ocular surface compared with other procedures. The procedure is also recommended for athletes or sports-oriented people. The SMILE process is not a flap-based procedure which is also an advantage for those who do not want that kind of treatment. This process can be performed using one laser system like the WaveLight EX500 Excimer Laser. The SMILE procedure is a promising treatment for those who want to undergo a vision correction process.
Advantages
In addition to the benefits of SMILE procedure mentioned previously, it is also known that this process utilizes a smaller incision. Approximately 4mm or a smaller incision is made for the procedure. The small incision offers less disruption to the nerves located at the cornea. Disruption of these nerves could lead to denervation, which could cause the dryness of the eye. The effect of this step (i.e., the smaller incision) is more prominent during the early postoperative period, where there is significantly less dryness in the eye observed compared to the LASIK procedure. In addition, there is less possibility of flap complications. Overall, SMILE offers a better way towards the biomechanical stability of the cornea.
Risks
Before choosing an option for vision correction, it is better to determine the risks and benefits offered by the procedure. The risk associated with SMILE procedures includes inflammation, clouded vision, dry eyes, and incomplete tissue removal.
Incomplete Tissue Removal
The SMILE surgery implements the separation and extraction of tissue from the mid-cornea layer. This step is unique to this technique which could add complications to the incomplete removal of tissue. If there is corneal debris left in the performed area, this could lead to abrasion, incisional tears, and adhesions. However, this debris can be flushed out using non-invasive treatments. Debris symptoms are temporary but could affect the recovery period and could lead to complications.
Inflammation
Inflammation is another risk which is a natural consequence for those undergoing an invasive procedure. This risk can affect the healing period, and SMILE has a greater potential for post-op inflammation than LASIK. Patients undergoing SMILE procedure should communicate with experts in LASIK Los Angeles if they have inflammation after the operation.
Hazy Vision
There is also a greater chance of having a hazy vision for those undergoing the SMILE procedure. People who undergo this operation mostly observe blurry vision and light sensitivity. These symptoms are usually observed during the first few months after the surgery.
The last symptom on the list is dry eyes. Dry eyes are common for those undergoing laser surgery. However, compared to other procedures, SMILE patients tend to have less dry eyes than those undergoing LASIK. This is because the SMILE approach creates fewer disruptions in the corneal nerves, which is related to post-op dry eye problems.
Conclusion
The SMILE procedure is a promising option for those who want to undergo LASIK in Los Angeles. This laser eye surgery has its own benefits and risks, which are common for any operation procedure. There are factors to consider when choosing the procedure you want for vision correctness, such as benefits, risks, and LASIK eye surgery cost. It is always important to weigh these factors before undergoing the operation. To further understand and give you enlightenment, it is recommended to always seek professional advice. Experts at the Lasik eye center in Los Angeles can help you choose the appropriate procedure for you.
