SMILE, or Small Incision Lenticular Extraction, is a type of laser eye surgery that is used to correct vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. It is a minimally invasive procedure that involves making a small incision in the cornea and using a laser to reshape the cornea to correct vision.
Lenticule Formation:
Lenticule Removal:
One of the advantages of SMILE over other types of laser eye surgery, such as LASIK, is that it involves a smaller incision, which can result in a faster recovery time and less post-operative discomfort. Additionally, SMILE does not involve the use of a corneal flap, which can reduce the risk of certain complications that can occur with LASIK.
Candidates for SMILE laser eye surgery are typically those who have myopia or astigmatism and are looking for a minimally invasive option for correcting their vision. People with severe myopia or astigmatism may not be good candidates for SMILE and may be better suited for other types of laser eye surgery. A thorough eye examination and consultation with a qualified eye surgeon are necessary to determine whether SMILE is the best option for an individual’s specific needs and circumstances.
It is important to note that while SMILE laser eye surgery is a safe and effective procedure, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. It is essential to discuss these risks with a qualified eye surgeon before deciding to undergo the procedure.
No. Your team at Corsini Laser Eye Center will take the time to make you comfortable and ensure that you receive the safest care.
Although this is among the top concerns of SMILE patients, rest assured that the gentle suction applied during the procedure keeps your eye open and still. Your safety is always our priority.
Recovery after ZEISS SMILE is quick, with most patients seeing clearly enough to drive the very next day. Like LASIK, your vision will improve daily, with most of your healing taking part in the first week. Post-operative discomfort is minimal and usually resolves within a few hours after surgery. You can resume many of your normal activities within a day or two after ZEISS SMILE.
Yes. Use the Corsini Laser Eye Center Calculator to see how affordable it really is. By the time most people get ZEISS SMILE, they’ve already spent more money on glasses, contact lenses, exam costs, and treatments for eye infections than the one-time cost of surgery. Moreover, the benefits of glasses- and contact-free life are priceless.
No. However, as part of your consultation process, we provide you with upfront costs and financing options to invest in your vision correction – including interest-free financing. If your employer offers a health or flexible spending account, this could be an option to manage the cost of your ZEISS SMILE investment.
If you are pregnant or currently nursing, you should not have ZEISS SMILE. It is recommended to wait to have SMILE until you’ve completed nursing for at least three to six months. Vision can fluctuate during this time, and waiting allows your eyes time to adjust back to normal. Hormonal therapies may also prevent you from being a SMILE candidate.
