Our surgeons are the first to bring the revolutionary SMILE® eye surgery to Melbourne
Our surgeons are the first to bring the revolutionary SMILE® eye surgery to Melbourne.
SMILE® eye surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to surgically correct refractive error of the eyes. The SMILE® procedure combines features of two established laser vision correction methods, PRK and LASIK, with a vastly improved safety profile due to its minimally invasive nature.
Referring to small incision lenticule extraction, SMILE® eye surgery in Melbourne is not yet widely used across all refractive surgery clinics as it is still considered to be a new technique on the forefront of laser vision correction. Our Melbourne-based ophthalmology clinic, operating through Eye Laser Specialists, is proud to offer SMILE® laser eye surgery to local residents and those travelling from across Victoria, all within our advanced facilities.
The Process of SMILE® Laser Eye Surgery
Our Melbourne rooms are equipped with the VisuMax femtosecond laser by Zeiss to perform laser vision correction with high precision and safety. The SMILE® procedure is a minimally invasive surgical technique with the goal of allowing our patients to greatly reduce their dependency on optical aids such as glasses and contact lenses.
Our ophthalmology team will conduct a thorough clinical assessment to ensure your suitability for SMILE® and to take the appropriate measurements required in forming the lenticule within your cornea, a precisely shaped sliver of tissue. At this time, any associated risks and costs of the surgery will be discussed with you.
During the procedure itself, your eye will be anaesthetised with topical eye drops and you’ll be asked to fixate on a target light. If you’re feeling anxious or restless we can also provide a light sedative. Our experienced refractive surgeon operates the femtosecond laser, which will quickly and precisely create the lenticule within your corneal tissues, and then this will be gently removed from a keyhole incision, adjusting the shape of your cornea to compensate for your prescription.
The total time spent on the operating bed is about 20 minutes but the procedure itself, from the incision to the laser to the removal of the lenticule, takes only a few minutes per eye.
The Benefits of SMILE® Eye Surgery
There are several significant advantages to the SMILE® procedure.
Flapless
During the LASIK surgery technique, a superficial flap of corneal tissue must be created in order to allow the laser to access the underlying layers for sculpting. Although uncommon, flap-related complications may occur. The SMILE® technique eliminates all flap-related risks as it removes the need to create the corneal flap.
Faster healing
During the SMILE® eye surgery procedure there is minimal tissue disruption, improving the biomechanical stability of the cornea after surgery. The minimally invasive nature of this technique promotes faster healing compared to other techniques which require more invasive impact.
Single-step procedure
SMILE® is performed using a single laser platform, which means you do not need to be moved from one position to another during the procedure. This may improve comfort, and your ophthalmologist will discuss potential risks and expected outcomes with you.
Low risk of post-operative dry eye
Dry eye can occur after laser vision correction. SMILE® may affect fewer corneal nerves than some other procedures, which may influence tear production. Your ophthalmologist will discuss risks and expected outcomes based on your individual circumstances.
SMILE® is most effective for treating myopia (short-sightedness). Astigmatism, an uneven curvature of the cornea affecting many patients, can also be treated with the SMILE® technique. At this stage, SMILE® is not suitable for patients with hyperopia (long-sightedness) or presbyopia (the natural age-related decline of near vision). Patients with hyperopia or presbyopia may be more suitable for LASIK or refractive lens exchange, both techniques which are also offered at Armadale Eye Clinic (through Eye Laser Specialists).
If you’re looking to explore options that may reduce your dependence on glasses or contact lenses, SMILE® laser eye surgery may be suitable for you. Book a consultation with Armadale Eye Clinic by calling us.
Patients and concerned family members are invited to come under the care of our experienced retinal doctors at Armadale Eye Clinic. Organise your appointment today by calling or booking online.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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OPENING HOURS:
Weekdays: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
CONTACT US:
Phone: (03) 9070 5753
FAX: 8692 1131
Email: info@armadale-eye.com.au
WHERE TO FIND US:
93 Kooyong Rd, Armadale,
Melbourne, VIC, 3143,
Australia