SMILE in Nashville, TN

Wang Vision was the first center in the state to perform SMILE, the small-incision laser vision procedure.

SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) is a newly developed laser vision correction surgery that was first performed in Tennessee here at our Nashville office. Like LASIK, SMILE is a bladeless, refractive eye procedure that alters the shape of the cornea to improve a patient's vision. However, SMILE has unique advantages over LASIK in that it is less invasive, requires a smaller incision, and doesn't require a flap, which produces fewer post-operative complications. At Wang Vision Institute, we are pleased to offer this revolutionary new treatment for individuals who want to achieve clearer, more precise vision without the help of glasses and contacts.

People often ask how refractive surgery works. In order to see clearly, light must enter the eye through the cornea and lens. The cornea then refracts (bends) the light so that it's able to precisely hit the retina. However, when a refractive error is present, the cornea is not able to focus the light on the retina, which causes an individual's vision to appear blurry or unfocused. To treat these issues, refractive laser surgeries are performed in high volume across the country. Treatments, such as LASIK, PRK, and now SMILE are able to reduce a patient's dependence on prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses and grant individuals clear sight.

At Wang Vision Institute, our eye care professionals are proud to be offering SMILE – a small-incision LASIK procedure for a number of reasons. There are several benefits of a SMILE procedure, including:

• Typically less invasive than traditional LASIK since no flap needs to be made
• Improved vision
• Quick and effective treatments, usually takes around 20 minutes
• Comfortable treatments with the use of numbing drops
• The ability to return to your normal daily life 1 – 2 days after treatment

The patients who are most likely to benefit from SMILE are individuals who:

• Are 21 years of age or older
• Have myopia (nearsightedness) between -1.00 – -10.00 diopters
• Have mild to moderate astigmatism (up to 3.00 diopters)
• Are in good overall health
• Possess healthy corneas
• Have realistic expectations for the outcome of their laser vision correction procedure

To determine your candidacy for SMILE, you will first meet with one of our eye surgeons and receive a comprehensive eye evaluation. We will ask about your medical history, assess your eye health, and discuss what you hope to get out of laser vision surgery. Some individuals who meet the above criteria may not qualify to receive this treatment if they have an unstable (changing) eyeglass prescription, certain eye conditions or diseases, uncontrolled diabetes, are pregnant, or have certain eye infections.

Prior to your surgery, our ophthalmologists will take specific measurements of the structures of your eye (such as the cornea's surface, its thickness, and the size of your pupil). These measurements will be programmed into the laser to ensure that the most accurate and precise result is achieved.

We will first numb your eye using special anesthetic drops and place a device over the eyeball to prevent any blinking or other movements. our ophthalmologists will then use their intuitive laser technology to carve out a disc-shaped section of the cornea below the surface of the eye (the lenticule). A tiny incision less than 5mm in size will then be made into the cornea, giving our ophthalmologist access to the disc-shaped section that was created by the laser. This disc is then removed, resulting in a reshaped cornea that allows light to land on the retina with better precision. With this technique, the cornea is able to retain more of its natural strength. Your SMILE procedure will be completed here at our office in about 10 – 15 minutes.

Following your SMILE procedure, you will need to have a reliable adult take you home. We advise most of our patients to nap or relax for the rest of their day following any refractive surgery. A member of our team will prescribe you eye drops to administer for a period of time as you recover. Some individuals report experiencing blurry vision after SMILE, but this will fade away in a few days as your eyes heal and adjust. You will be able to return to your daily tasks after 1 – 2 days post-op. You should also attend your scheduled follow-up appointments at our Nashville, TN office so we can monitor your vision progress and recovery.

Is SMILE surgery painful?
You will remain awake during your SMILE procedure. However, numbing eye drops will be used prior to the procedure to help you remain comfortable. You will experience a feeling of numbness in your eye, but there should be no pain or discomfort.

How long does SMILE surgery take?
Though it can range a little between patients, SMILE surgery often only takes about 20 minutes. This includes both eyes, and our Nashville, TN eye surgeons will let you know what you can expect before, during, and after your procedure. We will also provide the necessary aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results.

Will I have restored vision after SMILE surgery?
Immediately after your SMILE procedure, your eyes will begin healing. You may experience some fluctuations within your vision during the healing process. Full restoration of your vision may take some time, but many patients experience improved vision within hours after surgery.

Wang Vision Institute is proud to provide our patients with the most effective options to improve their vision and reduce their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. We continue to stay at the forefront of performing industry-changing techniques that are steadily gaining traction throughout the country. One such technique, small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE), is helping individuals achieve clearer, restored vision with fewer complications than even LASIK. To learn more about this revolutionary treatment and if you could qualify, contact our Nashville, TN ocular center and set up your consultation with a member of our team.