SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) Surgery at Eye Clinic DRHC Dubai

At DRHC Dubai, we are proud to offer SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) Surgery, a groundbreaking procedure in the field of refractive eye surgery. This advanced treatment is designed to correct common vision problems like myopia and astigmatism with unparalleled precision and minimal invasiveness. Our commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology and providing personalized care makes DRHC Dubai the ideal choice for your vision correction needs.

What is Smile Surgery?

SMILE is a next-generation laser eye surgery that differs significantly from traditional LASIK. It is performed using the VisuMax femtosecond laser, which creates a small, lens-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea. This lenticule is then removed through a tiny, sub-4mm incision, effectively reshaping the cornea and correcting refractive errors.

Comprehensive Benefits of SMILE Surgery

1. Minimally Invasive Procedure:
   • Smaller Incision: Unlike LASIK, which requires a 20mm incision to create a corneal flap, SMILE only requires a 2-4mm incision. This significantly reduces the impact on the eye’s structural integrity.
   • No Flap Creation: The absence of a corneal flap eliminates the risk of flap-related complications, such as dislocation or infection.
2. Fast Recovery Time:
   • Quick Visual Recovery: Most patients experience significant improvement in vision within a few hours post-surgery, with complete recovery typically occurring within a few days.
   • Minimal Discomfort: Patients often report less dryness and discomfort compared to other laser vision correction procedures.
3. High Precision and Accuracy:
   • Advanced Technology: The VisuMax laser used in SMILE surgery offers remarkable precision, allowing for accurate reshaping of the cornea, leading to excellent visual outcomes.
   • Consistent Results: SMILE surgery has a high success rate, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better.
4. Reduced Risk of Dry Eye Syndrome:
   • Less Nerve Damage: The smaller incision size in SMILE surgery means less disruption to the corneal nerves, significantly reducing the likelihood of dry eye symptoms post-surgery.
5. Suitability for a Broader Range of Patients:
   • Ideal for Active Lifestyles: SMILE is particularly beneficial for individuals with active lifestyles or those engaged in contact sports, as there is no risk of flap dislocation.
   • Suitable for Patients with Thin Corneas: Patients with thinner corneas, who may not be ideal candidates for LASIK, can often undergo SMILE surgery successfully.

Understanding the Risks of SMILE Surgery

While SMILE surgery is highly safe and effective, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and considerations:

1. Visual Disturbances:
   • Glare and Halos: Some patients may experience glare, halos, or difficulty with night vision after the procedure. These symptoms usually diminish over time.
2. Infection or Inflammation:
   • Risk of infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of infection. However, this is rare and can be effectively managed with prescribed eye drops.
   • Inflammation: Mild inflammation may occur, which is typically temporary and treated with anti-inflammatory medication.
3. Undercorrection or Overcorrection:
   • Need for Enhancement: In some cases, patients may experience slight undercorrection or overcorrection of their vision, which might necessitate an enhancement procedure to achieve optimal results.
4. Dry Eyes:
   • Temporary Dryness: Although less common than with LASIK, some patients may experience temporary dry eye symptoms after SMILE surgery. This can usually be managed with lubricating eye drops.
5. Rare Complications:
   • Ectasia: A rare condition where the cornea becomes weakened and bulges outwards. This risk is extremely low with SMILE compared to other procedures.

Who is a candidate for SMILE Surgery?

Smile surgery may be suitable for you if you:

• Are 18 years or older with stable vision for at least a year.
• Have myopia (nearsightedness) up to -10.00 D or astigmatism up to -5.00 D.
• Are not a candidate for LASIK due to thin corneas or other contraindications.
• Desire a quick recovery with minimal downtime and reduced risk of complications.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The SMILE procedure is efficient, typically taking about 10-15 minutes for both eyes:

• Preparation: Anesthetic eye drops are applied to numb your eyes, ensuring a comfortable experience.
• Laser Treatment: The VisuMax laser precisely creates the lenticule within your cornea and the small incision required to remove it.
• Lenticule Removal: The surgeon carefully extracts the lenticule through the small incision, reshaping the cornea to correct your vision.
• Post-Procedure: You may experience mild discomfort or dryness, which usually resolves quickly. Most patients notice improved vision within hours, with continued improvement over the next few days.

Why Choose DRHC Dubai for SMILE Surgery?

DRHC Dubai is a leader in advanced ophthalmic care, offering SMILE surgery performed by our experienced and highly trained ophthalmologists. Our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with the latest technology, ensuring you receive the highest quality care and optimal results. We prioritize patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction, making your vision correction journey a smooth and successful experience.

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center, our Ophthalmology department is dedicated to safeguarding your vision health through expert eye care Professionals, Renowned as one of the best eye care clinics in Dubai our Ophthalmology Specialists provide services for Cataract and retina treatment with Laser and Refractive surgeries.