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ReLEx SMILE Surgery

ReLEx SMILE (Refractive Lenticule Extraction, Small Incision Lenticule Extradition) is the latest laser technology for the correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism. It is a minimally invasive, flap-free technique that uses a small corneal incision and does not require a blade.

During ReLEx SMILE surgery, patients do not feel pain. They may only sense light pressure or gentle contact of the instrument on the eye. After the procedure, there is only a 2–4 mm incision at the corneal margin, so the cornea largely preserves its biomechanical strength and the risk of corneal flap displacement is eliminated. The treatment is highly precise because a high-speed femtosecond laser is used to create an intrastromal lenticule in a three-dimensional shape according to the patient’s refraction. This lenticule is then removed through the 2–4 mm incision. Once the lenticule is removed, the anterior corneal surface naturally adopts a new curvature that corrects the refractive error.

Benefits of ReLEx SMILE

  • Little to no pain during the procedure, and less postoperative discomfort compared with other methods.
  • Able to correct higher degrees of myopia and astigmatism, offering an option for patients who are not suitable for Femto-LASIK or conventional microkeratome LASIK.
  • The small incision preserves more corneal tissue, helping maintain corneal strength.
  • Lower risk of certain side effects, such as dry eye symptoms.
  • Shorter surgical time, which helps patients feel more relaxed and less tense during the procedure.

Suitable Candidates for ReLEx SMILE

  • Age 18 years or older with stable refraction for at least 1 year.
  • Patients under 20 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
  • No significant ocular disease such as keratoconus, severe dry eye, glaucoma, or retinal degeneration.
  • No systemic diseases that significantly impair wound healing, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjögren’s syndrome, psoriasis, other autoimmune disorders, or poorly controlled diabetes mellitus.
  • Not currently taking oral acne medications such as Roaccutane, Acnotin, or Isotretinoin. These medications must be discontinued for at least 1 full month before the preoperative evaluation and surgery because they can cause abnormal dryness of mucous membranes, including the corneal surface.
  • Patients taking other medications for chronic conditions (e.g., for diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, thyroid disease, or sleeping pills) should inform the ophthalmologist on the examination day, but may continue these medications as usual.
  • Not pregnant and not breastfeeding. (If menstruation has returned regularly for at least two cycles, the procedure can be considered.)
  • Not currently undergoing treatment with psychiatric medications for active psychiatric disorders.
  • Have undergone a comprehensive eye examination and been certified by an ophthalmologist as having healthy eyes and being suitable for ReLEx SMILE according to safety standards.
  • Have a clear understanding of the ReLEx SMILE procedure and maintain realistic expectations of the outcome.