Debunking Myths About SMILE Eye Surgery: Facts VS Myth

Laser eye surgery has opened many avenues for the correction of eyesight. One of the newer and best is SMILE Eye Surgery (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). But, like all medical procedures, rumours and misinformation follow, leaving the potential patient bewildered and indecisive.

Here, you may learn the truth about SMILE Eye Surgery if you’ve ever thought about getting it but have been put off because of common misunderstandings. Let’s dispel some widespread rumours and get the truth about this innovative treatment out there.

Myth #1: SMILE is Too New To Be Trusted

The Truth:

Although SMILE Eye Surgery seems to be a recent breakthrough, its history dates back over a decade. SMILE has also been available for practice in the United States with approval from the FDA ever since the year 2016 and has thus far been carried out safely and effectively for millions of people all over the world. SMILE is derived from the very same principles as LASIK using the least invasive method. SMILE has also been demonstrated through multiple tests to be as secure and effective as laser correction surgeries for the eyes.

Myth #2: SMILE is Painful and Has a Prolonged Recovery

The Truth:

Many people expect that, due to the fact that SMILE is performed by very slightly incising the cornea, the healing will be very prolonged and will cause pain. In reality, the overwhelming majority of the patient base finds the healing is very minimal and can resume normal activities after only a matter of days. SMILE’s very small incision causes less disturbance to the cornea, resulting in less and faster healing when comparing this operation to LASIK. Mild, temporary dry eyes and light sensitivity can occur, but these typically pass very quickly.

Myth #3: SMILE Eyelid Surgery is only for Severely Impaired Vision

The Truth:

A common misconception is the idea that SMILE is only for those with very high levels of myopia (nearsightedness). SMILE is actually very helpful for those with moderate to high levels of myopia and is also helpful for those with less severe levels of myopia. With ongoing study and improvement, the treatment is being applied for even greater levels of correction for the eyes, including for those with astigmatism.

Myth #4: SMILE is not superior to LASIK

The Truth:

Many people will assume the only logical option is the one with the greatest history, LASIK. However, SMILE and LASIK yield identical visual correction and sharpness. The only notable exception is the SMILE, which is flapless, leaving much of the tissue of the cornea intact and avoiding the risk of flap complications. In some cases, SMILE can even be the best option for those with very thin corneas or those engaged in contact sports and high-impact activities.

Myth #5: If you ever had SMILE eye surgery, you can’t ever get LASIK

The Truth:

Some people fear compromising their future correction opportunities by using SMILE. SMILE is planned for long-term correction; however, even for the very small proportion of cases where some correction is required, you can always maintain the option for laser correction surgeries like LASIK or PRK, if required. An eye professional will evaluate your unique situation and decide the best solution for future correction.

Myth #6: SMILE Eye Surgery is Expensive Compared to Other Corrective Surgeries

The Truth:

The cost for SMILE is generally the same for LASIK, and the price will vary by provider and geographical location. Still, the benefits over the long term generally make the investment worth the expense. If one adds the lifetime expenses for glasses, contact lenses, and annual eye exams together, SMILE actually pays for one over the long term.

Myth #7: SMILE Eye Surgery Isn’t Safe

The Truth:

SMILE is an extremely secure and accurate treatment with a very good history. Because the treatment is carried out by using a smaller incision than LASIK, the risk for side effects after the treatment, like dry eye syndrome or flap displacement, is less possible. Treatment is achieved by applying the latest technique, the femtosecond laser, for maximum security and accuracy.

Myth #8: Anyone can get SMILE eye surgery

The Truth:

While SMILE is suitable for the majority, not everyone is a good patient. These involve the patient’s age, corneal thickness, and the presence of some medical conditions, all of which make them not good for the treatment. An ophthalmologist will evaluate the patient extensively to establish whether SMILE is the best treatment for them.

The Bottom Line

SMILE Eye Surgery’s high level of success and flapless, less invasive technique has revolutionized the way the eyes are treated. Misconceptions and illusions can generate undue uncertainty. If you know the facts, you can decide whether SMILE is the best solution for you.

For more information about SMILE Eye Surgery and how you can obtain the clear sight you deserve, schedule an appointment with one of our skilled eye professionals if you’re ready for something more than glasses and contact lenses and you’d like to discover your solution!