• ReLEx SMILE

SMILE®

The latest advancement in laser vision correction.

What is SMILE

SMILE is the latest advancement in laser vision correction for myopia (near-sightedness), with or without astigmatism, providing LASIK-like outcomes in a minimally invasive procedure.

Why is it called SMILE?

SMILE is an acronym that stands for “Small Incision Lenticule Extraction.” Simply put, a laser is used to create a thin, contact lens-shaped layer just beneath the surface of the eye and then a small opening, through which the layer is removed.

Yes, PRK, LASIK and SMILE can help create clearer vision and reduce or eliminate your need for glasses and contacts. Understanding the difference between the procedures can help you and your surgeon make the right choice for your laser vision correction.

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About Laser Eye Surgery

PRK

SMILE Treatment Steps

Step 1 Lenticule creation

A thin lenticule and small incision are created inside the intact cornea.

Step 2 Lenticule removal

The lenticule is removed through the incision with minimal disruption to the corneal bio-mechanics.

Step 3 Impairment is corrected

Removing the lenticule changes the shape of the cornea, thereby achieving a refractive correction.

SMILE Frequently Asked Questions

At Texas Eye Surgeons we recognize each patient as an individual with unique needs. After performing extensive measurements and testing, Dr. Ali will make a personalized recommendation for the safest procedure for you to achieve your individual goals.

Take our self test to determine if laser vision correction is right for you.

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and many patients want to know which treatment is “better.” The fact is that both LASIK and SMILE are proven and consistent, so most patients will be very happy with either option. Generally speaking, SMILE is the less invasive laser vision correction option and has a small risk of post-surgical infection or transient dry eye syndrome. The best procedure for you is based on your eye structure and lifestyle goals, your surgeon can recommend the right treatment for you!

SMILE and LASIK use different laser technologies to recreate the clarity of your vision, the costs of the two options are different. These costs account for the skill and experience of your surgeon, the costs and fees of acquiring and using the laser technologies, and the costs of the support staff and surgical follow-up.

SMILE is a gentle vision correction solution. Patients consistently tell us it was very comfortable. Some patients do say they feel a tiny amount of pressure around their eye for a few seconds during the treatment, but are quick to clarify that it didn’t hurt at all!

Patients often return to most of their daily activities, including going back to work, the day after their SMILE treatment. While LASIK patients are asked to avoid wearing makeup for one to two weeks after their LASIK procedure, SMILE patients can begin wearing makeup the next day. Patients can generally resume all daily activities four to seven days after their treatment.

Since SMILE was launched in 2011, it has been continuously growing with more than 2,000 doctors performing the treatment around the world. Furthermore, SMILE was officially approved by the FDA in 2016. More than 4,000,000 eyes have benefited from focused vision thanks to SMILE.

To offer SMILE, clinics have to invest into expensive new laser technology. Not all clinics have the funds available immediately to make this investment. Currently, about 20% of all laser centers around the world have made this investment.

Yes. SMILE supports the proven and minimal-invasive laser vision correction procedure that has created better vision for thousands of patients. As with any surgical treatment, there are possible risks and side effects. After a thorough eye exam and consultation, your surgeon will discuss your options with you and help you make the right decision for your vision.

SMILE is the fastest-growing laser vision correction option in the world. Worldwide, more than 4 million eyes have been treated with SMILE by more than 2,000 surgeons (and growing).

Yes. The FDA approved SMILE for the United States in September 2016 after rigorous trials and testing showed it to be a consistent, effective way to improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses and contacts.

Yes and no. Your SMILE treatment is permanent, but as with every part of your body, your eyes will continue to age and your vision will be affected as you get older. SMILE cannot prevent cataracts and presbyopia, but most SMILE patients enjoy many years of focused vision without glasses and contacts.

Of course, SMILE is FDA approved for astigmatism correction of up to 3.00 diopters.

Most patients who receive SMILE tell us that they use their glasses and contacts very little, or not at all! The goal of SMILE is to reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses. Based on the anatomy of your eye, your surgeon will be able to tell you more about the results you can expect from SMILE.