SMILE stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. Many people may confuse it with the Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery because of the specific similarities in both procedures. SMILE cannot treat higher-order aberrations, whereas LASIK can. Still, the results from a SMILE eye surgery can help correct nearsightedness without the need for particular invasive procedures in LASIK operations. If you’re about to undergo a SMILE eye surgery, here are five ways to help you prepare:
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Know About the Procedure
The first step for preparation is to know how SMILE eye surgery works. You should feed your mind with information about the procedure to understand if it’s the correct operation for your eyesight.
SMILE eye surgeries are a corrective procedure using laser technology permitted for patients 22 years old and above. Patients may have an unclear vision caused by nearsightedness and/or astigmatism. Facilities employ precision laser equipment with the technical know-how to operate the machine.
The laser cuts a thin disc of tissue within the layers of the cornea. Therefore, several areas of the eye remain undisturbed so as not to cause complications during and after the procedure. The device removes the tissue disc (known as the lenticule) in the eye to alter the shape of the cornea. In doing so, the surgery should improve the patient’s vision.
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Know the Benefits and Limitations of SMILE
Many medical operations have specific advantages and shortcomings. SMILE eye surgeries are no exception to that notion. With that in mind, understanding the benefits and limitations of this particular eye operation will help you prepare for the upcoming procedure.
For instance, aside from strengthening your vision, SMILE procedures may help lessen the risk of dry eye symptoms. It may be the result of the surgery taking place within the cornea and without the corneal flap. So, the procedure affects fewer corneal nerves, thereby lessening the risk of dry eye during and after the operation.
SMILE surgeries also come with shortcomings. For one, these procedures can only correct nearsightedness. Conversely, LASIK operations can help correct more significant concerns regarding eyesight like farsightedness.
You can contact a clinic like LaserCare Eye Center to know more about the advantages and limitations of SMILE eye surgeries.
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Don’t Hide Your Medical History
Many doctors won’t mind if you give them too much information about your medical history. Eye doctors and other medical professionals would want to know as much information about your medical history as possible.
Make sure the doctor who’ll perform the operation is aware of all your eye-related issues. Also, tell the professional about other past and present health concerns. For example, you may have diabetes, which may cause nearsightedness. This ailment may be diabetic retinopathy, and it affects the blood vessels in the retina found in the back of the eye.
When your doctor knows about this illness, he or she gains a better understanding of how to tackle the issue. The medical professional may recommend a SMILE eye surgery, along with the right after-care procedures.
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Don’t Wear Any Eye Makeup
Avoid the temptation to put on any eye makeup when you’re about to go to the medical facility where you’ll undergo this laser eye surgery. Also, don’t wear any cosmetics around the eye area one or two days before the date of the operation.
Any debris found on your eyelashes puts you at risk of infection from the procedure. Use mild skincare products so as not to harm the skin around your eyes. It’s best to use gentle eye care products to help avoid complications on the date of the surgery. Also, wash your face regularly to ensure no makeup is on your face during the operation.
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Be Comfortable
Last, keep a calm mind before and during the SMILE eye operation. Don’t forget to dress comfortably and avoid wearing bulky clothing. Avoid wearing hair accessories as it might interfere with the position of your head when it’s under the laser.
Many people feel anxious before their first SMILE eye surgeries. Remember, your doctor should have years of experience to minimize the risks of complications from the procedure. If you feel the need to take anti-anxiety medication, don’t forget to tell the surgeon about it.
If you have any concerns about the SMILE laser surgery, don’t hesitate to tell your doctor about them. You may feel pressure on your eye because of the laser. If you feel anxious because of that thought, communicate with your doctor. The medical professional would want you to feel as calm as possible during the operation.
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