What Are the Risks of Smile Pro Eye Surgery?

Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, widely known as SMILE Pro, is a modern refractive eye surgery technique developed recently. The surgery is minimally invasive as compared to traditional alternative methods of LASIK surgery, making it a comfortable option for people who are seeking vision correction without wearing glasses or lenses. So, what are the risks of smile pro eye surgery? Let’s check!

The procedure takes place with the use of a femtosecond laser to build a tiny lens-shaped tissue called a lenticule within the cornea. A small incision removes the lenticule. Thus, it fixes the shape of the cornea to amend the refractive error. The surgery usually completes within 9 seconds per eye with its robotic laser technique. It is considered the fastest and most convenient procedure compared to traditional methods. However, SMILE Pro has risks and drawbacks that should be considered before finalizing the procedure.

So, what are the risks of SMILE Pro Eye Surgery?

Here are some potential drawbacks of SMILE Pro Eye Surgery:

Dry Eye:
It is one of the most frequently reported issues related to SMILE Pro surgery. Dry eye syndrome is when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Such a disorder causes discomfort, blurry vision, and the possibility of long-term consequences. Because of the smaller incision, which may disrupt ocular nerve fibers responsible for tear production, the risk of dry eye after SMILE Pro surgery is higher than LASIK.

Under correction or Overcorrection:
It is significant to achieve the exact vision required in any eye surgery, or for that matter, in any surgery, it is crucial to achieve the desired results. However, in SMILE Pro surgery, there is a risk of under-correction or overcorrection. Undercorrection is the insufficient correction of vision. Subsequently, the patient still needs glasses or lenses. Conversely, overcorrection refers to excessive correction, leaving the patient with visual disturbances and other discomfort.

Astigmatism:
Astigmatism leads to blurry vision caused when the cornea has an irregular shape. Although this condition can be treated with SMILE Pro surgery, there is a likelihood of triggering or worsening astigmatism during the procedure. Poor lenticule production or extraction may result in an uneven corneal surface, resulting in myopic errors that were absent before surgery.

Visual discomfort:
This is a common risk in every refractive eye surgery. SMILE Pro surgery is not different. The disturbances in the vision may include double vision and reduced sensitivity. While most people endure these symptoms briefly, they might last longer than usual in uncommon or rare situations, compromising the quality of living and vision.

Infections:
SMILE Pro eye surgery, like any surgical operation, has the risk of infection and inflammation. Though uncommon, these problems might result in significant visual impairment if not treated swiftly. To reduce the risk of infection and infection, strict adherence to care before and after surgical procedures. It includes adequate hygiene and medication use.

Flap-Related Complications:
In contrast to LASIK, SMILE Pro does not need the formation of a corneal flap. However, because a small incision is required, flap-related problems such as epithelial scratches or uneven wound healing are dangerous. These problems may cause a delay in visual recovery or corneal deviations.

Regression:
There is a chance of regression after SMILE Pro surgery, in which the treated eye gradually recovers to its preoperative refractive state. This regression may demand more surgical upgrades or the continuing use of corrective eyewear to maintain good visual eyesight.

Corneal Haze:
Corneal Haze is a highly uncommon but not impossible aftereffect of SMILE Pro surgery. This condition arises when the cornea builds up a hazy or blurry appearance. It occurs due to abnormal healing. This complication usually recovers with time and applicable guidelines.

Patient Selection:
The success of any refractive eye surgery, including SMILE Pro, is also dependent on proper patient selection. If a patient’s eye structure or overall health is unsuitable for them to undergo surgery, the surgery will likely cause problems. Surgeons must undertake detailed evaluations and adhere to strict candidature requirements to ensure optimal outcomes and minimize potential dangers.

Corneal Ectasia:
Corneal Ectasia is a very rare condition. It possesses serious post-operative effects after SMILE Pro surgery. In such cases, one can notice a form of thinning and bulging of the cornea, which further leads to shape disorientation and impaired vision.

Epithelial Ingrowth:
After SMILE Pro surgery, epithelial ingrowth refers to the migration of surface cells below the flap or within the lenticule. Although this condition is unusual, it may trigger visual discomfort or impairment. In a few cases, surgery removes the ingrowth and recovers the visual eyesight.

Surgical skills:
For any eye surgery to be successful, skills and experience is the primary requirement. The skills of the surgeon reduce the risk of complications. On the other hand, if the surgeon is not well trained, the chances of errors, complications, and other side effects increase. Thus, choosing a well-trained, experienced, and reputable surgeon is crucial. To minimize the risks and complications related to the surgery.

Wrap-Up- What Are the Risks of Smile Pro Eye Surgery?

SMILE Pro eye surgery has evolved as the latest and least invasive vision correction solution. While it has some advantages over regular LASIK procedures, it is crucial to weigh the dangers. Understanding the risks associated with the procedure, such as dry eye syndrome, under-correction, induced astigmatism, visual disturbances, infection and inflammation, flap-related complications, and regression, will allow patients to make informed decisions and have optimistic expectations about the procedure’s results.

People choosing this eye surgery should consult with their ophthalmologists. They can examine them personally to ensure whether the person qualifies for the criteria for the surgery. The doctor should discuss the potential risks and offer individual guidance on managing post-operative complications. By examining and understanding the risks against benefits, the patients can decide whether or not they want to undergo SMILE Pro eye surgery for their vision correction.

Lastly, it is crucial to note that these complications hold some possibilities. They do not usually occur. It treats patients with proper care and management. Most patients who undergo SMILE Pro surgery recover easily. Even they have claimed to achieve vision improvements with the least side effects. Nonetheless, it is significant to discuss every aspect of surgery before deciding.