Personal Experience with Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) Laser Eye Surgery
Introduction to SMILE Surgery
Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) is a type of laser eye surgery that is used to correct vision issues including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It is a minimally invasive procedure that differs from other types of laser eye surgeries like LASIK. SMILE uses a femtosecond laser to create a small pocket within the cornea, and then removes a thin lenticule of tissue to reshape the cornea for enhanced vision correction.
Pre-Surgery Vision
Before undergoing SMILE surgery, I could see up close clearly. However, my distance vision was not as good, and I relied on glasses to correct my distance vision. This was a common pattern for many individuals, especially those with nearsightedness.
Post-Surgery Vision
Following the surgery, my distance vision improved as expected. I could see far away with no problem. However, my up-close vision did not improve as anticipated. I still needed my glasses for close-up tasks, and I encountered significant difficulties with reading small print. This was a significant source of frustration, as I found myself often needing a magnifying glass to read text in smaller fonts.
Consulting the Doctor
When I discussed my concerns with my doctor, he recommended continuing to use a magnifying glass. While he acknowledged the inconvenience, he suggested that the vision issues might improve over time. However, my experience with a magnifying glass is limited; they are not always practical to carry around. This advice left me questioning whether SMILE surgery was the best choice for my vision correction needs.
Seeking a Different Approach
My dissatisfaction with the initial results led me to search for alternative avenues for vision correction. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a new doctor who can offer a satisfactory solution. The process of finding a new doctor has been challenging, as I need someone who can provide a thorough evaluation and offer recommendations that address my specific visual needs.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
SMILE surgery can be effective for distance vision improvement, but it may not be suitable for everyone. As someone who relies on up-close vision, I found the results of SMILE surgery to be less than ideal. If you are considering SMILE surgery, it is essential to discuss your expectations and potential outcomes with your doctor to ensure the best possible outcome for your individual needs.