Laser eye surgery, be it SMILE, LASIK or PRK, is always a very delicate surgical procedure. Not every eye patient qualifies for laser treatment. It requires the right diagnosis of an experienced ophthalmologist and pre-screening to decide whether or not one is the right candidate for laser treatment.
SMILE is a type of laser eye surgery that is done to cure eye vision and improve vision quality.
The patients who undergo SMILE need not wear glasses or contacts. But one must know the benefits and risks of SMILE procedure before they get sure of it completely.
Who Is The Right Candidate for SMILE?
People with an active lifestyle might want to opt for SMILE as it involves less invasion and there is no cutting of corneal flap. Therefore, it is a simple method and can be a good choice for people who want to start their life right after surgery. One does not have to worry about dislodging the corneal flap in SMILE, unlike LASIK.
Also, to be qualified for the SMILE you need to meet the following criteria:
- The patient should be above 22 years.
- The eye prescription should remain constant in the last one year.
- The range of nearsightedness should be between -1 and -8 diopters.
- Your cornea should be healthy.
Who Does Not Qualify For SMILE?
Not everyone is the right candidate for the SMILE and the reasons are as follows:
- Unstable or fluctuating refractive errors
- Patients with skin disease
- Scarring in the eye
- Cornea disease
- Advanced glaucoma
- Cataract formation
Benefits Of SMILE
The major benefits of SMILE laser treatment are as follows:
Fast And Simple Method
SMILE is a laser treatment procedure that takes less time to execute. It takes almost less than 15 minutes for each eye. Also, the laser used in this treatment is for very little time. Patients who are afraid of undergoing laser treatments must opt for this surgery as the process is quick and does not involve any long laser process.
Cost-Effective
SMILE is a better option for people who do not want to go for expensive laser eye surgery. This is a comparatively effective method of surgery that improves refractive errors. To know about SMILE surgery cost, consult with an ophthalmologist.
Recovery Is Quick
SMILE patients recover quickly as there is no involvement of the corneal flap. Within the first day of the treatment, the patients may get better vision. And within a week the vision improves even more. Patients can easily get back to their normal life after a couple of days of post-treatment.
More Stable Procedure
SMILE has got more stability than any other laser treatments for the eye. In this method, only a tiny incision is made in the corneal surface. So it is a minimally invasive method and maintains the strength of the cornea.
Fewer Chances Of Complications
For the minimally invasive nature of the surgery, SMILE is very popular for having fewer chances of complications during and after the surgery. It is a type of surgery that gives fewer side effects. The common side effects that patients experience are dry eyes and light sensitivity that tends to go away within a few days. Also, ophthalmologists recommend certain eye drops to treat infections and dry eyes.
Better Eligibility
Anyone who is not suitable for LASIK can go for SMILE. You are not out of options if after screening you are found not suitable for LASIK. For patients with lower corneal strength, SMILE is the best option for vision correction treatment. Just make sure you talk to your eye specialist before your SMILE surgery in Delhi.
Just like any other laser eye surgeries SMILE carries some risks and limitations. But prior consultation with your eye doctor will help you decide better if it is worth it.