Overview
Relex SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is the most recent advancement in laser vision correction used to treat vision abnormalities, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This minimally invasive, bladeless form of keyhole laser surgery, offers a great alternative to LASIK, requiring no flap and less downtime.
A femtosecond laser is used in the Relex SMILE procedure to make a tiny incision in the cornea. The doctor then removes a small portion of corneal tissue (called a lenticule) to permanently alter the curvature of your cornea and restore your eyesight.
Relex SMILE offers many advantages, including:
- Quick visual recovery.
- Simple, safe, and painless procedure.
- Improved corneal stability.
- Less risk of developing dry eyes
- Low risk of infection.
- Requires no flap.
Am I a suitable candidate for Relex Smile?
One of the advantages of SMILE laser eye surgery is that more people are suitable for it compared to LASEK and LASIK surgeries which are considered unsuitable for patients with eye dryness. So, SMILE treatment may be ideal for you even if you have mild to moderate dry eyes. You could also benefit from SMILE eye surgery if you have contact lenses intolerance or a thin cornea.
How to prepare for Relex SMILE procedure?
During the consultation, our ophthalmologist will carry out an in-depth assessment to make sure you are right for SMILE eye surgery. If not, we will recommend a different laser eye surgery. Our ophthalmologic surgeon will be with you every step of the way, from the initial consultation to performing the surgery and any aftercare you may require. At Novomed, we pride ourselves on offering an exceptional level of personalized care, which sets us apart from other clinics in Dubai.
What happens during the Relex Smile procedure?
Before the surgery, the doctor will use numbing eye drops and use an eyelid holder to prevent your eye from blinking during the procedure.
During the Relex SMILE surgery, our state-of-the-art laser machine emits a series of precise pulses in the center of the cornea to outline the tissue that will be removed to reshape the cornea. The laser then creates a connecting channel through which the surgeon removes this tissue.
The SMILE procedure doesn’t require creating a flap, which improves postoperative eye comfort compared to other laser eye surgery techniques. The procedure takes a few minutes and results in 80% vision improvement within a few hours. The vision will reach 100% improvement within a few weeks.
Recovery time tends to be quick and smooth with SMILE laser eye surgery, but it is normal to experience blurry for a while after you have had the procedure. Our ophthalmologist in Novomed Dubai offers a comprehensive aftercare plan, which involves a follow-up appointment the next day, and then follow-up checks at intervals lasting up to 12 months after the surgery.
What happens after the Relex Smile procedure?
Recovery after Relex SMILE surgery is quick, with less chance of complications and discomfort, such as dry eye symptoms than other laser eye surgery procedures. Most patients reported improved sight within 24 hours of their surgery; however, it can take a few weeks for eyesight to show 100% improvement.
After Relex SMILE surgery, patients should not drive for 24 hours and avoid light sources, such as TVs and mobile phones, for 2-3 days after surgery.
Schedule your appointment at Novomed today!
If you believe you are the right candidate for Relex SMILE, make an appointment with our highly qualified ophthalmologist to learn more about this procedure and its alternatives.
Book your consultation today by calling toll-free 8006686 or clicking the live chat icon at the bottom of the screen.
