Is ReLEx SMILE Right for You?

Before recommending ReLEx SMILE, your ophthalmologist will assess several factors to determine whether the procedure can be performed safely and effectively. These criteria help ensure that the treatment is appropriate for your eye structure, vision needs and long-term visual stability.

• Age: Patients are generally recommended to be 18 years or older, as this is when the eyes have typically finished developing. Some clinics may advise waiting slightly longer to ensure the prescription has stabilised.
• Stable Vision Prescription: Your prescription should remain stable for at least one year, with changes typically no greater than ±0.50 dioptres during the past 12 months. Stable vision helps ensure the results of the procedure remain effective over time.
• General Eye Health: Candidates should have good overall eye health, without significant corneal disease, corneal scarring or conditions such as keratoconus that could affect surgical safety or outcomes.
• Suitable Refractive Error: ReLEx SMILE is designed to treat myopia (short-sightedness) and astigmatism. It is not currently used to correct hyperopia (long-sightedness) or presbyopia (age-related decline in near vision).

ReLEx SMILE uses a femtosecond laser to create a precise, lens-shaped disc of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea. This lenticule is then removed through a tiny incision. Since the upper layers of the cornea remain largely intact, the eye's structural integrity is typically preserved differently than with flap-based procedures.

The procedure itself is typically completed within a short period of time and is performed under local anaesthetic eye drops to ensure patient comfort. Because only a small incision is required, there is no need to create a corneal flap as in LASIK. Many patients experience relatively quick visual recovery, although the exact healing timeline can vary depending on individual eye characteristics and adherence to post-operative care instructions.

This technique is often a safer and more effective option than LASIK surgery for patients with thinner corneas or those prone to dry eyes. By leaving the corneal surface mostly undisturbed, the procedure disrupts fewer nerves, resulting in a more stable post-operative experience.

A series of thorough pre-operative evaluations are required to confirm whether a patient is eligible for the surgery. This involves a series of diagnostic tests designed to map the structural integrity of your eye and identify any underlying conditions that could affect the outcome.

• Corneal Topography: This non-invasive imaging test generates a detailed 3D map of the surface curvature of your cornea to detect keratoconus and other irregularities.
• Refraction Assessment: Your doctor needs to ensure your vision prescription has been stable for at least one year. Significant changes in your prescription before surgery could impact the long-term effectiveness of the treatment.
• Pupil Size Measurement: Examining pupil size, particularly in low-light conditions, helps the surgeon predict and mitigate potential side effects such as halos or glare during night driving.
• Dry Eye Assessment: The doctor will evaluate the quality and quantity of your tears, as laser surgery can temporarily affect tear production.

The consultation is a two-way conversation where your eye doctor will explain realistic expectations and the recovery process. It is the ideal time to discuss your medical history, including any medications you are taking or systemic health issues.

For accurate measurements, you will need to stop wearing contact lenses for a specific period before your appointment. Soft lenses typically need to be removed at least 1 week prior, while hard or rigid gas-permeable lenses may require a longer cessation period. You will also be advised to avoid wearing eye makeup, lotions or perfumes on the day of the surgery to reduce infection risks.

Every patient's eyes are unique, making it necessary to carry out a detailed consultation and diagnostic assessment before ReLEx SMILE surgery. If you are considering laser vision correction, scheduling a consultation allows your ophthalmologist to evaluate your eye health, explain your options and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your vision and lifestyle.

At our clinic, we provide detailed eye examinations and personalised assessments to determine each patient's suitability for ReLEx SMILE and other refractive procedures. Care is led by senior consultant ophthalmologist Dr Cordelia Chan, who has extensive experience in cornea and refractive surgery. Using advanced diagnostic technology, Dr Chan carefully evaluates each patient's eye profile, corneal structure and vision needs to determine whether ReLEx SMILE is a suitable option for safe and effective vision correction.

Contact us today to discuss your options and determine if ReLEx SMILE is the appropriate path for you.