Introduction
Laser eye surgery is a common procedure to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Smile Pro eye surgery is a newer laser eye surgery technique that has gained popularity recently due to its minimally invasive nature and faster recovery time. One question many people have about Smile Pro eye surgery is whether they are awake during the procedure. This article will discuss what Smile Pro eye surgery is, how it differs from other laser eye surgeries, and whether you are awake during the procedure.
What is Smile Pro Eye Surgery?
Smile Pro eye surgery, also known as SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction), is a type of laser eye surgery that uses a femtosecond laser to correct vision problems. Unlike other laser eye surgeries, such as LASIK and PRK, Smile Pro eye surgery does not involve creating a flap in the cornea. Instead, the surgeon creates a small incision in the cornea and uses the laser to remove a piece of tissue called a lenticule. It reshapes the cornea and corrects the patient’s vision.
How is Smile Pro Eye Surgery Different?
As mentioned before, Smile Pro eye surgery differs from other laser eye surgeries because it does not involve creating a flap in the cornea. It means that there is less disruption to the corneal nerves and a lower risk of developing dry eyes after the procedure. Additionally, because there is no flap created, there is a reduced risk of flap-related complications such as dislocation or infection. Smile Pro eye surgery also has a faster recovery time than other laser eye surgeries, with most patients experiencing improved vision within 24 hours.
Are You Awake During Smile Pro Eye Surgery?
The question that many people have about Smile Pro eye surgery is whether they are awake during the procedure. The answer is yes, you are awake during Smile Pro eye surgery. However, you will be given numbing eye drops to ensure you do not feel any pain or discomfort during the surgery. Some patients may also be given a mild sedative to help them relax during the procedure.
Certain eye surgeries can generally be performed with the patient awake, utilising local anaesthesia. Procedures such as LASIK and PRK frequently leverage local anaesthesia to numb the eye, enabling the patient to stay conscious throughout the surgery. This approach ensures patients can respond to surgeons’ instructions during the operation.
If you’re contemplating any form of eye surgery, discussing all the details with your surgeon is essential. It includes the type of anaesthesia used, your level of consciousness during the procedure, and other specifics relative to the surgery. Your surgeon will provide detailed information tailored to the procedure you’re undergoing and your unique medical circumstances.
Local Anesthesia: Keeping You Comfortable
Local anaesthesia is a numbing medication administered directly to the area being operated on. In the context of Smile Pro eye surgery, it’s used to ensure that the patient feels no pain during the procedure. Local anaesthesia keeps the patient comfortable and awake by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the eye, allowing them to communicate with the surgeon if needed. It’s a safe and effective way to manage pain during the surgery while minimising the need for general anaesthesia.
Staying Awake: What to Expect
During Smile Pro eye surgery, you can expect to remain conscious throughout the procedure. It is made possible by using local anaesthesia, which numbs the eye and ensures you don’t feel any pain. While awake, you might experience a sensation of pressure or mild discomfort, but it should not be painful.
Maintaining Consciousness During the Procedure
Remaining conscious allows you to communicate with the surgeon. They may provide instructions or ask for feedback during the surgery. It is perfectly normal to let them know if you’re uncomfortable or if something doesn’t feel right.
This level of consciousness also means you’ll be aware of your surroundings. You’ll hear the sounds of the surgical equipment and may see lights, though your vision may be somewhat blurred due to the surgical field.
Remember, the surgical team ensures your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to communicate them. Your comfort and well-being are their top priorities.
Potential Benefits of Awake Eye Surgery
The use of local anaesthesia and maintaining consciousness during the procedure allows for some potential benefits, including:
Reduced risk of complications:
Being awake during the surgery allows you to respond to discomfort or concerns immediately, reducing the risk of complications.
Shorter recovery time:
As mentioned before, local anaesthesia wears off quickly after the surgery, allowing for a faster recovery time.
Increased control:
Being awake during the procedure allows you to communicate with the surgeon and have more control over your experience, which can help reduce anxiety.
Lower cost:
Awake eye surgery often costs less than procedures done under general anaesthesia. It is because it doesn’t require additional resources such as an anesthesiologist.
In Conclusion
Making an informed decision about Smile Pro eye surgery is crucial for a successful and satisfying outcome. Understanding the procedure, the use of local anaesthesia, and what to expect during the surgery empowers you as a patient. By choosing local anaesthesia, you opt for a method that keeps you comfortable and allows communication with the surgeon throughout the procedure. This level of consciousness provides a sense of control and ensures that any concerns can be addressed promptly.
Remember to consult with your surgeon, ask questions, and discuss any anxieties you may have. Your surgeon guides you through the process and ensures a positive experience. Ultimately, being well-informed enables you to approach Smile Pro eye surgery with confidence and peace of mind, setting the stage for a successful and transformative outcome.
