The Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) procedure represents an advanced approach to laser vision correction, primarily utilized for the treatment of myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. This minimally invasive technique offers a flapless alternative to traditional LASIK surgery, garnering attention for its potential benefits in terms of corneal biomechanical stability and reduced incidence of dry eye.
During the SMILE procedure, a sophisticated femtosecond laser precisely creates a thin, contact lens-shaped piece of corneal tissue, known as a lenticule, within the stroma (the middle layer of the cornea). The dimensions of this lenticule are meticulously calculated based on the patient’s specific refractive error. Following the laser’s creation of the lenticule, the surgeon makes a small incision, typically less than four millimeters in length, on the surface of the cornea. Through this minute opening, the pre-shaped lenticule is gently extracted, thereby altering the curvature of the cornea and correcting the refractive error.
The absence of a large corneal flap, a hallmark of the LASIK procedure, is a key differentiator of SMILE. This flapless approach is believed to contribute to greater corneal biomechanical integrity post-surgery, potentially reducing the risk of ectasia, a progressive thinning of the cornea. Furthermore, the smaller incision in SMILE disrupts fewer corneal nerves, which may lead to a decreased incidence and severity of post-operative dry eye symptoms compared to LASIK.
The SMILE procedure itself is relatively quick, often taking only minutes per eye. Topical anesthesia, usually in the form of eye drops, is administered to ensure patient comfort during the treatment. While visual recovery may be slightly slower with SMILE compared to LASIK, many patients experience significant improvement in their vision within a few days, with continued enhancement over the following weeks. 
As with any surgical intervention, SMILE is associated with potential risks and complications, although serious issues are rare. These can include under-correction or over-correction of the refractive error, the need for enhancement procedures, and, in very rare cases, infection or other adverse events. Thorough pre-operative evaluation and detailed discussion of these risks with the ophthalmologist are crucial for informed decision-making.
In Oregon, our surgical team at Pacific ClearVision Institute are leaders in the advanced vision correction procedures. To our neighbors in the Eugene area and beyond, we encourage you to contact us and come in for a consultation to help you determine if the SMILE procedure is the correct option to help improve your vision. We are committed to utilize the latest safest advanced technology to providing comprehensive patient care.
