The technique is characterized by its unique, flapless approach, offering patients a minimally invasive approach to vision correction, setting it apart from traditional methods like LASIK.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the cutting-edge procedure and understand why it has become a preferred choice for many seeking clearer vision.

SMILE procedure overview:

·         Step 1: To ensure a painless and comfortable experience during the procedure, the patient receives anesthetic eye drops.

·         Step 2: A highly precise femtosecond laser is employed to create a small incision in the cornea, allowing access to the inner layers.

·         Step 3: Through this incision, a thin disc-shaped tissue, known as a lenticule, is extracted from the cornea’s inner layers. This reshapes the cornea, correcting refractive errors.

·         Step 4: The small incision minimizes disruption to the cornea’s surface, leading to less discomfort during the procedure and a quicker recovery.

Advantages of SMILE:

·         The flapless procedure: The flapless nature of SMILE reduces the risk of flap displacement or other flap-related complications.

·         Minimally invasive procedure: SMILE involves a small incision of 2-4 mm, which represents a significant reduction in incision size compared to some other types of laser eye surgeries.

·         Minimized discomfort: The flapless nature of SMILE reduces discomfort both during the procedure and in the recovery phase.

·         Low post-surgery complications: The SMILE procedure reduces the incidence of post-surgery complications such as epithelial ingrowth and infections.

·         Reduced disruption to the cornea: The minimally invasive approach preserves the cornea’s surface, enhancing its stability.

·         Effective and efficient procedure: The advanced technology used in SMILE ensures highly accurate outcomes, especially for higher refractive values like severe nearsightedness. The procedure’s efficiency is enhanced as it requires only one machine, eliminating the need for patients to switch between two laser systems.

·         Quick recovery: Patients typically experience a faster recovery compared to traditional methods.

Candidate criteria for SMILE:

To be a candidate for SMILE, individuals generally need to meet certain criteria, including:

·         Being at least 22 years old

·         Having a stable prescription

·         Falling within specific prescription ranges

·         Maintaining healthy corneas

·         Understanding the procedure’s benefits and limitations

Consultation and consideration at Bajaj Eye Care Centre

SMILE eye surgery is a cutting-edge, flapless, and minimally invasive choice for those aiming to free themselves from glasses. Advancing technology, like SMILE, provides a more precise and comfortable vision correction method with faster recovery. Consultation with an experienced Eye Specialist can help you make informed decisions about this revolutionary procedure and your vision health.

For those considering vision correction, consulting with an experienced Ophthalmologist Dr. Rajiv Bajaj at the Bajaj Eye Care Centre in Delhi is crucial. A personalized assessment can determine whether SMILE is the optimal solution based on individual eye health and vision correction needs.