Fix your vision
VISION correction surgery, or refractive and laser eye surgery, is any surgical procedure performed to correct vision problems.
In recent years, tremendous advancements have been made in this field. A new procedure called ReLEx SMILE is gaining popularity.
Unlike conventional laser- assisted in situ keratomileusis ( Lasik), ReLEx SMILE does not create flap and involves the use of only one laser ( the femtosecond laser).
Instead of vapourising cornea tissue to correct the underlying short- sightedness and astigmatism, ReLEx SMILE carves out a small piece of corneal tissue called a lenticule and removes it through a small keyhole incision ( about 2.5mm to 4mm).
This single- step, all- in- one- laser operation only takes about 30 seconds to correct one eye and the entire procedure can be completed in about 15 minutes for both eyes.
This laser is fast and uses very low energy. The procedure is odourless and silent, causing minimal discomfort to patients.
Patients also feel more comfortable because suction on the eye during treatment is gentler. There is no frightening “blackout” or bleeding ( no red eye) during the procedure or swelling of the eye after treatment.
The smaller wound caused by minimally invasive surgery results in a much stronger eye and less immediate postoperative discomfort and tearing.
A small incision also means fewer corneal nerves are severed during the procedure, leading to lower probability of dry eyes.
With no flap created, flap displacement or dislodgement is not an issue. ReLEx SMILE is a good option for those involved in contact sports.
Most patients will experience a dramatic improvement in their vision a day after the surgery and then remain stable days after.
If the present direction and volume of research is any guide, a large proportion of tomorrow’s femtosecond technological advances and discoveries will be based on the mastery of treating refractive errors without even touching the cornea.
All treatment will be intrastromal and ReLEx SMILE is currently one of the most advanced procedures available.
Choosing laser eye correction is not a decision you should take lightly. Keep in mind that it is still a surgical procedure that carries surgical risk, although risk is very small and the success rate is very high.
Have your eyes properly evaluated and examined by the eye surgeon prior to surgery and discuss all options and potential risks in detail before making any final choices.