In ReLEx SMILE laser surgery, unlike the large incision required in LASIK laser, a much smaller incision is sufficient, and this incision size can be reduced to 2 mm in ReLEx SMILE.
ReLEx SMILE treatment, which is revolutionary in bladeless laser therapies and gives excellent results especially in high myopes, performs all surgical steps with a single laser and without incision. Compared to the Femto LASIK method, it is performed in the form of disk removal (lenticule) with a much smaller incision. This provides high-numbered patients with the advantages of safe treatment, less stinging and burning, faster recovery, and less dry eye issues.
ReLEx SMILE laser surgery is performed using Carl Zeiss Meditec's patented VisuMax femtosecond laser technology and is FDA-approved. In the SMILE procedure, the surgeon uses a femtosecond laser to create a small, lens-shaped tissue (lenticule) in the cornea. Then, using the same laser, the surgeon makes a small arc-shaped incision on the cornea surface and removes the lenticule through this cut. Once the small lenticule is removed, myopia is corrected by changing the corneal shape. The corneal incision heals without stitches within a few days, and sharp vision is quickly achieved.
Who Are Candidates for ReLEx SMILE Laser?
SMILE can be recommended more than LASIK or similar procedures, especially for individuals with an active lifestyle. Patients with an active lifestyle might accidentally dislodge the corneal flap, but since SMILE does not involve cutting a flap in the cornea like LASIK, complications after flap creation are also eliminated.
For this reason, ReLEx SMILE Laser method emerges as the most suitable operation method for individuals with an active lifestyle and professional athletes.
Who Can Undergo ReLEx SMILE Laser?
There are certain criteria for eligibility for ReLEx SMILE. Suitability is assessed by an ophthalmologist during a detailed examination, and an operation decision can be made. Generally, the criteria include;
- Being 18 years or older,
- The patient's prescription should not have changed in the last year,
- The patient's myopia degree should be between -1.00 and -10.00,
- Astigmatism should not be greater than -5.00,
- General eye and corneal health status should be suitable for ReLEx SMILE.
Since SMILE can be used in high visual defects (up to 10 degrees in myopia and 5 degrees in astigmatism), it provides a high visual quality. In patients above these degrees, since the degree will again decrease after the procedure, the procedure will provide satisfaction in terms of visual quality.
Who Cannot Undergo ReLEx SMILE Laser?
- Patients whose prescriptions are changing
- Hyperopia patients (Studies for hyperopia treatment with SMILE are ongoing; it is thought that it may also be applied to hyperopia patients in the future.)
- Individuals under 18 years of age
- Presence of skin or other diseases that might affect healing
- Excessive scarring or keloid formation
- Corneal degeneration or disease
- Advanced glaucoma patients
- Individuals with cataract conditions affecting vision
- Those with a history of certain eye infections
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
What to Expect During ReLEx SMILE Laser
Before the surgery, it is vital to assess whether your eye structure is suitable for SMILE surgery through a very detailed eye examination and tests. During the surgery, a laser procedure lasting about 27 seconds is performed. After placing a vacuum ring that prevents eye movement, the laser is applied and your doctor removes the piece formed inside the cornea through an incision as small as 2 mm. Rest is recommended for the remainder of the day post-surgery. Throughout the day, watering, glare in lights, and sensitivity in the eyes are entirely normal and are reduced with the use of drops.
What Are the Benefits of ReLEx SMILE Laser?
Since a large incision is not created to form a corneal flap, complications related to flap tissue are not expected. Complications such as flap folding and not settling in place immediately after surgery are also not expected. In the long term, the risk of the flap shifting in any trauma to the eye is eliminated. As fewer corneal incisions are made, the number of nerves cut is less, minimizing dry eye symptoms related to sensory loss. As a result of the procedure, the patient regains visual comfort.
Since SMILE can be used in high visual defects (up to 10 degrees in myopia and 5 degrees in astigmatism), it provides high visual quality. Even in patients above these degrees, since the degree will again decrease after the procedure, patient satisfaction will be achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to wear sunglasses after ReLEx SMILE Laser?
After the SMILE operation, patients are typically advised to wear sunglasses for one to two weeks. Thereafter, they can start using them only in outdoor settings or in bright light conditions.
Does ReLEx SMILE Laser hurt?
No, ReLEx SMILE laser does not hurt; local anesthesia is applied with eye drops during the procedure. The patient does not feel pain during the process. Mild stinging and watering may occur after the operation, but these effects usually resolve within 1-2 days.
When can I return to work or daily life after SMILE laser?
Most patients can return to their daily lives within 1-2 days following the operation. Activities like viewing screens and driving become possible as eye sensitivity decreases.
Is ReLEx SMILE laser a permanent solution?
Yes, this method that corrects refractive errors provides permanent results. However, natural eye changes like presbyopia due to aging over time can occur. This does not affect the success of the operation.