A Step by Step guide to ReLEx SMILE
Numbing the Eye
Creating the Lenticule and the Incision
Creating the Lenticule and the Incision
Before the LASIK procedure gets underway, eye drops are used to numb the eye. These take seconds to start working and last for about ten to 15 minutes.
Creating the Lenticule and the Incision
Creating the Lenticule and the Incision
Creating the Lenticule and the Incision
After the eye is numb, it needs to be immobilized for the surgery. This is done with a contact glass which is placed gently on the eye and connected to the laser device. Once the eye is held stationary, the laser creates a lenticule within the stroma, an inner sub-layer of the cornea, and creates an access incision on the corneal surface that is less than 4mm wide.
Removing the Lenticule
Creating the Lenticule and the Incision
Refractive Error Corrected
The surgeon removes the lenticule through the laser-generated small incision.
Refractive Error Corrected
Refractive Error Corrected
Refractive Error Corrected
Removing the lenticule changes the shape of the cornea, correcting the refractive error. The incision is so small that it will seal itself after some time.
Recovery
Refractive Error Corrected
Follow-up
After surgery, it is recommended not to rub the operated eye, to rest and not to overexert yourself.
. In most cases vision stabilizes within one week after the operation. After SMILE, patients are normally able to drive, work, wear make-up and participate in sports, just a few days following treatment.
Follow-up
Refractive Error Corrected
Follow-up
The doctor may recommend wearing a patch for one week while sleeping to avoid accidentally scratching the eye before it heals. Doctors typically require a follow-up exam the day after surgery and after one month.