
SMILE: A Revolutionary Vision Correction Procedure for Refractive Errors
At Kaşkaloğlu Eye Hospital, we pride ourselves on offering cutting-edge treatments to enhance your vision and quality of life. One such innovation is the SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) procedure. If you’re looking for a minimally invasive, effective, and fast recovery option to correct refractive errors, SMILE might be the solution for you. What is SMILE? SMILE is a laser eye surgery designed to correct myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. Unlike traditional LASIK, SMILE uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin, lens-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea, which is then removed through a small incision. This reshapes the cornea, improving how light focuses on the retina and providing clearer vision. Who is a Candidate for SMILE? You may be a good candidate for SMILE if you: Are over 18 years old and have a stable prescription for at least a year. Have mild to moderate myopia (up to -10.00 diopters) with or without astigmatism (up to -5.00 diopters). Have a cornea that is thick enough to undergo the procedure. Are not suitable for LASIK due to dry eye issues or other factors. How is SMILE Different from LASIK and PRK? Minimally Invasive: SMILE requires a single, small incision of less than 4 mm, whereas LASIK involves creating a larger corneal flap. Faster Recovery: With no flap involved, SMILE patients typically experience quicker healing and reduced dry eye symptoms. Greater Corneal Integrity: SMILE preserves more of the cornea’s structural strength, making it a better option for certain patients. Suitability for Active Lifestyles: The absence of a flap makes SMILE ideal for individuals engaged in contact sports or other high-impact activities. The SMILE Procedure Step-by-Step Pre-Surgery Evaluation: Before the procedure, a thorough eye examination determines if you’re a good candidate. Advanced imaging technologies assess the corneal shape, thickness, and refractive error. Laser Creation of the Lenticule: During the procedure, a femtosecond laser creates the lenticule and a small incision in the cornea. Lenticule Removal: The surgeon removes the lenticule through the incision, reshaping the cornea. Vision Improvement: Most patients notice clearer vision within hours, with continued improvement over the following days. Benefits of SMILE High Success Rate: SMILE has proven results, with over 90% of patients achieving 20/20 vision or better. Comfortable Experience: The procedure is virtually painless and completed in less than 10 minutes for both eyes. Quick Recovery: Many patients return to normal activities, including work and driving, within 24-48 hours. Reduced Risk of Complications: The small incision reduces the chance of infections or dry eye issues compared to LASIK. Are There Any Risks? As with any surgical procedure, SMILE carries some risks, such as mild discomfort, halos, or under/over-correction. However, these are rare and can often be managed effectively with follow-up care. Why Choose Kaşkaloğlu Eye Hospital for Your SMILE Procedure? At Kaşkaloğlu Eye Hospital, we are committed to excellence in patient care and outcomes. Our experienced surgeons use state-of-the-art technology to ensure the best results for your vision correction. From your initial consultation to post-operative care, we are with you every step of the way. Frequently Asked Questions about SMILE How soon will I see results? Most patients experience improved vision within hours, with optimal results achieved within a few weeks. Is SMILE permanent? Yes, the results of SMILE are permanent, although natural age-related changes in vision, such as presbyopia, may still occur later in life. Can SMILE correct hyperopia (farsightedness)? Currently, SMILE is approved for myopia and astigmatism, but advancements in technology may expand its use in the future. Ready to See the World Clearly? If you’re tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses, SMILE could be the life-changing solution you’ve been waiting for. Contact Kaşkaloğlu Eye Hospital today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward clearer, sharper vision.