Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) Eye Surgery

Who is eligible for SMILE?

Adults older than 18 years with a stable vision prescription for at least one year make the best candidates for SMILE. This surgery is best for patients who may want to avoid flap surgery and who have myopia accompanied by mild to moderate astigmatism. Determine if you are fit to undergo the procedures at Tender Palm Eye Hospital, where detailed consultations are performed.

What is the difference between SMILE and other laser eye surgeries?

Another difference is that the procedure is flap-free; hence, it poses fewer risks of complications compared to LASIK. SMILE also uses a smaller incision than both LASIK and PRK, resulting in faster healing and less discomfort from dry eyes.

How does the SMILE eye surgery procedure work?

There are three main steps in the SMILE operation:

• Preparation: The eye is suppressed with anaesthetic drops, and a femtosecond laser is programmed according to the patient’s exact prescription.
• Lenticule Creation – The laser induces a small-disc lenticule within the cornea and a fine incision.
• Lenticule Removal – The surgeon takes this lenticule out through the incision to reshape the cornea in order to correct refractive errors.

This process takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes per eye in general.

Does SMILE eye surgery hurt?

There is no pain during SMILE surgery. A patient may experience a small amount of pressure, but local anaesthetic drops ensure the procedure has no discomfort involved.

Which technology is used in SMILE?

At Tender Palm Eye Hospital, we capitalise on cutting-edge femtosecond laser technology for the utmost safety and accuracy during the SMILE procedure.

Is SMILE applicable for all types of refractive errors?

SMILE surgery is actually meant for myopia and mild to moderate cases of astigmatism. It may not prove effective for hypermetropia (farsightedness) or very high levels of refractive errors. Our specialists will suggest the best treatment plan according to your profile at your consultation appointment.

What are the risks of undergoing SMILE eye surgery?

Of course, SMILE is a safe procedure, but so is true of all surgery, and potential risks are quite real, including:

• Temporary dry eyes.
• Light sensitivity during recovery.
• Under-correction or overcorrection, which may require other treatments.
• Infrequent complications like infection or inflammation.

What are the advantages of SMILE eye surgery?

The multitude of benefits that SMILE offers include:

• No Flap Production – Reduce the possibility of complications related to flaps.
• Minimally Invasive: Promote faster healing with its smaller incision.
• Decreased Risk of Dry Eyes – Better preservation of corneal nerves than LASIK in the dry eye symptom group.
• Precision & Efficacy – Accurate for vision correction in myopia and astigmatism.
• Expedient Recovery – Most notice improvement in vision within a day.

What makes SMILE a better choice than traditional LASIK?

SMILE offers the great benefit of less invasive surgery, healing quicker than traditional LASIK and reducing dry-eye incidence. This profile suits the needs of an active life or involves patients who should mind dry-eyed symptoms.

Do they last for a long time?

It is rare to experience long-term side effects. Most patients will enjoy stable vision over the years that follow their SMILE procedure. Normal follow-up visits ensure that optimum results are achieved and any concerns addressed.

What is the recovery process like post-SMILE procedure?

The recovery after SMILE surgery is usually speedy and uncomplicated:-

• Immediate Improvement: Vision improves within 24 hours for most, but complete clarity may take a few weeks.
• Post-Operative Management – Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory solutions may be prescribed to prevent and manage the occurrence of infection and inflammation.

Follow-Up Visits with Eye Doctor: Include regular visits to monitor healing and assure results.

Are there any activity restrictions after SMILE?

Yes, patients are instructed to avoid the following during the initial recovery phase:

• Rubbing eyes.
• Swimming or hot tubs will be off-limits for two weeks.
• Strenuous exercise within a few days.
• Eye makeup for at least one week.

When is it possible to engage in one’s normal activities again?

Most patients usually return to their work and everyday activities within one to two days. However, it is advisable to take protective measures, such as wearing sunglasses outdoors, during the course of healing.

What are the long-term effects of SMILE?

SMILE achieves a long-term, stable, and permanent solution for refractive errors. However, natural changes in the eyes with age, such as Presbyopia, may require additional correction later in life.

When will I start seeing results post-SMILE surgery?

Most patients will see an improvement in their vision immediately after the surgery, with very clear vision usually established in a few days. Full stabilisation of vision occurs within a few weeks.

What Makes Tender Palm Eye Hospital the Best Choice for SMILE Eye Surgery in Lucknow, India?

With the latest technology and experienced eye specialists, Tender Palm Eye Hospital is committed to providing individualised services to ensure that any procedure performed meets an individual’s best interests.

Our staff is dedicated to you in the entire process, from the first consultation to the post-operative intervention, to be able to bring its care to the patient as it journeys to results of clear, comfortable vision with SMILE. So, if you are ready to make that final step toward leaving your glasses and contact lenses behind, you are rightly welcomed here in Tender Palm Eye Hospital.

To Schedule an Expert Consultation for SMILE Eye Surgery in Lucknow, India