Enhancing your eyes in Dorset and Hampshire

If you’re considering laser surgery to correct nearsightedness and / or astigmatism, small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) may be a good option.

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SMILE is the latest generation of laser eye surgery. It is minimally invasive, highly accurate and unlike LASIK, it does not require the creation of a flap. This has several theoretical advantages:

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• No risk of flap problems e.g. dislocation

• The eye is left stronger than it would be after LASIK

• The corneal nerve supply is less affected, meaning fewer issues with dry eyes

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Because of these benefits, SMILE is now my preferred option when treating myopia.

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It takes an average of 23 seconds for the laser to create a small lens-shaped piece of corneal tissue (called the lenticule) inside the cornea. The surgeon then removes the lenticule through a small incision in the outer part of the eye. This reshapes the cornea and corrects the refractive error.

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Unlike LASIK, SMILE is an almost silent, odourless procedure and you can remain in the same position from start to finish.

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Disadvantages of SMILE compared to LASIK are:

• the visual recovery takes a little longer (you will probably have "Vaseline vision" for 2-3 days)

• long-sightedness cannot currently be treated (but this is in development)

• it cannot currently be used to perform PRESBYOND treatment for presbyopia

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SMILE is exclusively available using the Visumax laser from Carl Zeiss Meditec. Find out more here.

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Whereas LASIK surgery is widely available in most vision correction clinics, SMILE is limited to a few select clinics and surgeons. At Laser Vision Eye Centre, I am fortunate to have access to the latest technology from Carl Zeiss Meditec, meaning I can offer SMILE, LASIK or surface ablation according to your individual needs and preferences.

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Find out more about LASIK here

Find out more about surface ablation (LASEK / PRK) here