In particular, if a person is thinking about vision correction, SMILE – Small Incision Lenticule Extraction – has been identified as a progressive, least invasive approach which yields high outcomes. But what if a patient wants to go back to their initial plan, as they called it? Is SMILE surgery reversible and if not, what can be done? In this article, we will explain the details of SMILE surgery and possible ways to reverse it; we will also define factors that you should take into consideration.
Understanding SMILE Surgery
What is SMILE Surgery?
SMILE surgery is a kind of refractive eye surgery intended to eliminate myopia and, occasionally, astigmatism; it stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. It is acknowledged as a new type of laser eye surgery which offers a choice that is less invasive than LASIK. SMILE surgery alters the shape of the cornea and can enhance the vision of a patient and in many cases, they do not have to wear glasses or contact lenses again.
How Does SMILE Differ from LASIK and PRK?
SMILE differs from LASIK and PRK in terms of technique and invasiveness:
LASIK consists in making a flap in the corneal tissue and then using a laser to modify the underlying tissue.
PRK consists in the excision of the superficial layer of the cornea and the underlying tissue is molded into the desired form.
SMILE employs a small incision to fashion a lenticule which is then extracted through the incision; this leads to the alteration of the corneal contour without the formation of a flap.
Compared to LASIK and PRK, this procedure is less invasive and usually gives faster healing, less dryness and fewer complications.
Can SMILE Surgery Be Reversed?
The Reversibility of SMILE Surgery
The fundamental question, therefore, is whether SMILE surgery is a reversible procedure. In the strict sense, then, SMILE is not reversible because it entails the surgical ablation of corneal tissue. Once this tissue is shed, it cannot be regenerated or replaced in any way, shape or form. This is the same as LASIK where the reshaped cornea is permanently changed in the eye.
Can Vision Be Modified After SMILE?
SMILE surgery itself is an irreversible procedure, but enhancements can be done if there is a need for vision correction in the future. Here are potential options:
- Additional Laser Procedures: In some cases some patients may require further correction which can be done by LASIK or PRK. However, this is a function of the corneal thickness and general health of the eyes.
- Contact Lenses or Glasses: For minor changes in vision after the surgery, the person can still use contact lenses or glasses. This is generally acceptable for fine tuning after SMILE.
- Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL): Very occasionally, it may be possible to place an ICL within the eye to alter the vision following SMILE. This option is normally recommended for people with higher degree of myopia or those who cannot do more laser correction.
- Re-treatment with LASIK or PRK: If the patient has sufficient amount of corneal tissue left, then one can opt for a LASIK or PRK surgery to fine tune the prescription. But this is more often than not done on an ad hoc basis.
Important Considerations Before SMILE Surgery
Factors to Think About
Despite the fact that SMILE surgery provides a good opportunity to correct vision, one has to know that, as in many other operations, the results are permanent. Here are key factors to consider:
- Stability of Prescription: SMILE surgery should not be done unless one has had a stable eye prescription for at least one year.
- Understanding the Permanence: Since SMILE is an irreversible procedure, the potential patients should be fully explained the permanency of the surgery.
- Alternative Options: Consider options such as LASIK, PRK or Implantable Contact Lenses if you desire a treatment that can be amended in the future.
- Long-Term Vision Changes: Presbyopia, other changes that occur with age, can develop after SMILE. While the procedure can help fix your current vision needs, other changes are bound to occur as you age.
Conclusion
In conclusion, SMILE surgery has been established as a permanent way of correcting vision, but once the surgery is done, it cannot be undone. The following recommendations can be made for patients interested in SMILE: Patients should understand that the operation is irreversible and should determine whether the correction of vision corresponds to their vision needs in the future. There are other procedures like LASIK, PRK or contacts that can be done in the future for those who may require them.
As a result, you should seek the services of an ophthalmologist to explain your situation and determine which procedure will be most beneficial for you. If you are thinking of undergoing SMILE surgery, The Eye Foundation provides a complete eye care and vision correction solutions. Visit us for an appointment today to receive the best solution for your eyes.
