SMILE | Loden Vision

What is SMILE Eye Surgery?

Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) is a laser vision correction procedure designed to treat nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. SMILE works by reshaping the cornea through a small incision to improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

Unlike traditional LASIK, which creates a corneal flap, SMILE uses a femtosecond laser to create a small disc of tissue (called a lenticule) within the cornea, which is then removed through a tiny incision. This approach preserves more of the cornea's structural integrity while still effectively correcting vision.

At Loden Vision Centers, our team performs SMILE as part of our comprehensive range of vision correction options. The procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes per eye, with patients often noticing improved vision within a short period following surgery.

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What Happens During SMILE?

First, your eyes will be numbed with anesthetic drops to ensure comfort.
The femtosecond laser creates a precisely shaped lenticule (small disc of tissue) within your cornea, along with a small incision on the cornea's surface.
Your surgeon then carefully removes this lenticule through the tiny incision using specialized instruments.
This removal reshapes your cornea, correcting your vision prescription.
The procedure concludes without requiring stitches, and the small incision heals naturally.

Most patients report that the procedure itself is comfortable, with the actual laser treatment taking only about 30 seconds per eye. The entire process, including preparation and immediate recovery, is typically completed within an hour.

Am I a Candidate?

SMILE Candidacy

SMILE can be a great option for many people who are seeking vision correction, but it might not be the best choice for everyone. To find out if you're a good candidate for SMILE vision correction, you'll need to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and consultation with your eye doctor at Loden Vision Centers. Generally, good candidates for SMILE include:

Adults 22 years and older with stable vision for at least one year
Patients with nearsightedness between -1.00 and -10.00 diopters
Individuals with astigmatism up to -3.00 diopters
Those looking to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses
Patients with adequate corneal thickness and overall eye health

Several factors may affect your eligibility for SMILE, including certain eye conditions, corneal irregularities, and severe dry eye syndrome. During your consultation at Loden Vision Centers, our team will conduct thorough testing to determine if SMILE or another vision correction option would be most appropriate for your situation.

SMILE can only correct vision in people with myopia and astigmatism. If you have farsightedness or other vision conditions, our eye care professionals can discuss alternative treatment options that might better address your needs.

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What's the

Recovery Process Like After SMILE?

After SMILE eye surgery, most patients enjoy a smooth recovery period with relatively little discomfort. Here's what you can expect during recovery:

Immediately after your procedure, you may experience mild blurring, light sensitivity, or a feeling of grittiness in your eyes. These sensations are normal and typically subside quickly. Make sure to have a driver accompany you on the day of your procedure, as you won't be able to drive right away.

Most patients notice vision improvement within the first day, though complete stabilization may take 1-2 weeks. Many people can return to work and resume most daily activities within 24-48 hours after surgery.

During your recovery period, your doctor at Loden Vision Centers will prescribe medicated eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation and will provide specific instructions for how and when to use them. You'll also have scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.

Some activities should be avoided during the initial recovery period:

Swimming and hot tubs should be avoided for at least one week
Eye makeup should not be worn for at least one week

Contact sports should be postponed for at least one week
You should avoid rubbing your eyes for several weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

The key distinction between SMILE and alternative procedures is the specific technique used to reshape your cornea. While LASIK creates a flap in the cornea and PRK removes the outer corneal layer, SMILE works through a small incision without creating a flap. Each procedure has its own set of advantages, and the best option varies based on an individual’s eyes, lifestyle, and vision goals.

The procedure permanently reshapes your cornea to correct nearsightedness and astigmatism. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that results can vary between individuals. Additionally, SMILE does not prevent age-related vision changes such as presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects), which typically develops after age 40.

The actual laser portion of SMILE takes only about 30 seconds per eye. However, the entire experience, including preparation and immediate post-operative care, typically takes about an hour at our facility.

Most patients report minimal discomfort during the SMILE procedure. Your eyes are numbed with anesthetic drops beforehand, so while you may feel some pressure, the procedure itself is generally not painful. After surgery, some patients experience mild irritation, which typically resolves within a few hours or days.

Why Choose

Loden Vision Centers for Your Vision Correction Needs

At Loden Vision Centers, we're committed to providing comprehensive vision care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Our experienced surgeons perform SMILE and other vision correction procedures with precision and attention to detail.

We understand that choosing vision correction is a significant decision. That's why we take the time to thoroughly evaluate your eyes, discuss your vision goals, and recommend options that align with your specific needs. Our team provides detailed information about procedures, expected outcomes, and recovery processes to help you make an informed choice.

We prioritize both your comfort and superior vision results through every step of your experience, from consultation to complete recovery.

Ready to Find Out if You’re a Good SMILE Candidate?

If you're considering SMILE or other vision correction options, our team will help you explore your options and determine which approach might be best suited to help you achieve clearer vision.

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SMILE Eye Surgery