If you’re tired of the limitations posed by glasses or contact lenses, SMILE LASIK surgery might be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for. At the SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, patients are increasingly turning to this advanced vision correction procedure for improved eyesight and long-term visual clarity. SMILE LASIK, or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional LASIK surgery, providing precise results with a shorter recovery time.Visit for more details SNU안과 라식수술
What is SMILE LASIK Surgery?
SMILE LASIK is a cutting-edge eye surgery technique designed to correct nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Unlike traditional LASIK, which uses a laser to create a flap in the cornea, SMILE LASIK uses a femtosecond laser to remove a small piece of tissue from the cornea. This tissue is then extracted through a small incision, which is just a few millimeters wide, making the procedure minimally invasive. The result is a reshaped cornea that improves the way light is focused on the retina, leading to clearer vision.
Benefits of SMILE LASIK at SNU Eye Clinic
At the SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, SMILE LASIK is performed by experienced ophthalmologists who specialize in refractive surgeries. One of the primary advantages of SMILE LASIK over traditional LASIK is that it doesn’t require the creation of a large flap in the cornea, which reduces the risk of complications and provides a faster recovery time. This method also preserves the structural integrity of the cornea, making it a safer option for those with thinner corneas.
Another key benefit of SMILE LASIK is the reduced risk of dry eye symptoms. Since the procedure involves only a small incision, fewer nerve fibers are disrupted, which helps maintain the natural tear production of the eye. This makes it an ideal option for patients who have experienced dry eyes in the past or are prone to them.
The Procedure and What to Expect
Before undergoing SMILE LASIK surgery at the SNU Eye Clinic, patients will first have a thorough eye exam to determine their suitability for the procedure. This includes tests to measure the thickness of the cornea, the shape of the eye, and the level of refractive error. Once approved for the procedure, the surgery is typically completed within 30 minutes.
During the procedure, patients are given numbing eye drops, so they remain comfortable throughout. The femtosecond laser creates a small lenticule (a tiny disk-shaped tissue) inside the cornea, which is then removed through a small incision. After the lenticule is extracted, the cornea’s shape is altered to improve the focus of light onto the retina. The surgery is performed with high precision and minimal discomfort, ensuring a quick recovery.
Recovery and Aftercare
One of the biggest advantages of SMILE LASIK is the quick recovery time. Most patients notice an immediate improvement in their vision, and many are able to resume their normal activities within a day or two. While it’s normal for the eyes to feel slightly irritated or dry for a short period after the procedure, these symptoms typically subside within a few days.
Patients are advised to follow aftercare instructions carefully, which may include using artificial tears to keep the eyes moist and avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks. It’s also important to avoid rubbing the eyes or exposing them to water, such as swimming pools, for at least a month.
The Cost of SMILE LASIK at SNU Eye Clinic
When considering SMILE LASIK surgery at the SNU Eye Clinic, the cost is an important factor to take into account. The price of the procedure can vary based on several factors, including the patient’s specific needs and the level of expertise required for the surgery. However, many patients find that the benefits of SMILE LASIK—such as better vision, quicker recovery, and fewer risks—are well worth the investment. Additionally, financing options may be available to help make the procedure more affordable.
At SNU Eye Clinic, patients also have the opportunity to consult with specialists about the various options available, including lens implantation (such as Zero Toric ICL) and other refractive procedures to further enhance vision correction.
SMILE LASIK vs. Traditional LASIK
One of the most common questions patients ask is about the difference between SMILE LASIK and traditional LASIK. While both procedures aim to achieve similar results—improved vision without the need for glasses or contacts—the methods used are different. Traditional LASIK involves creating a flap in the cornea, which is then lifted to allow the laser to reshape the corneal tissue beneath it. On the other hand, SMILE LASIK only requires a small incision, leaving the corneal surface mostly intact.
Because of this, SMILE LASIK is considered to be a more advanced, less invasive option, with fewer risks and a faster recovery time compared to traditional LASIK.
Conclusion
If you’re ready to take the leap and improve your eyesight, SMILE LASIK surgery at the SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul could be the right choice for you. With its advanced technology, minimal invasiveness, and quick recovery, it’s no wonder more and more people are choosing this procedure for their vision correction needs. For more information on SMILE LASIK, lens implantation, and other eye care services, visit the SNU Eye Clinic website at snuseoul.com.
