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New Frontier In Laser Eye Surgery
V
ision correction surgery, or refractive and laser
eye surgery, is any surgical procedure used to
correct vision problems. Extensive research has
provided invaluable refinements and advance-
ments of laser technology and diagnostic tools
to develop safe treatment options for refractive disorders.
Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (Lasik) is presently
the most performed elective procedure.
In recent years, tremendous advancements have been
made in this field. A new procedure called ReLEx® SMILE is
gaining popularity.
Unlike conventional Lasik, ReLEx®SMILE does not create
flap and involves the use of only one laser (the femtosecond
laser).
Insteadofvapourisingcorneatissuetocorrect theunderly-
ing short-sightedness and astigmatism, ReLEx® SMILE
carves out a small piece of corneal tissue called a lenticule in
the cornea, which is removed through a small keyhole incision
(about 2.5 to 4mm).
This single-step, all-in-one-laser operation only takes
about 30 seconds to perform correction for one eye and the
entire procedure is complete in about 15 minutes for both.
This laser is fast and uses very low energy. The procedure is
odourless and silent, so there is less discomfort for patients.
Patients also feel more comfortable because suction on
the eye during treatment is gentler. There is no frightening
“blackout” or bleeding (no red eye) during the procedure or
swelling of the eye after treatment.
Due to the smaller wound by minimally invasive surgery,
ReLEx® SMILE results in a much stronger eye and less im-
mediatepostoperativediscomfort and tearing. Asmall incision
also means fewer corneal nerves are severed during the
For details, contact KPJ Pusat Pakar Mata Centre
for Sight at +603 4022 6222 (KL); +603 7804 4051 (PJ)
KKLIU No. 1416/2016
procedure,whichalsomeans lessdryeye.Withnoflapcreated,
flap displacement or dislodgement is not an issue. ReLEx®
SMILE is a good option for those involved in contact sports.
Most patients will experience a dramatic improvement in
their vision a day after the surgery and then remain stable
days after.
If thepresent directionandvolumeof research isanyguide,
a large proportion of tomorrow’s femtosecond technological
advances anddiscoverieswill bebasedonmasteryof treating
refractive errorswithout even touching the cornea. All treat-
ment will be intrastromal and ReLEx®SMILE is currently one
of the most advanced procedure available.
Choosing laser eye correction is not a decision you should
take lightly. Keep in mind that it is still a surgical procedure
that carries surgical risk, although risk is very small and the
success rateveryhigh. Haveyour eyesproperlyevaluatedand
examined by the eye surgeon prior to surgery and discuss all
options and potential risks in detail before making any final
choices.
The lenticule is removed through the small incision. The
disruption to the biomechanics of the cornea is minimal and
no flap is cut.