ReLEx Smile laser is a third generation laser surgery method used to treat refractive disorders such as myopia and astigmatism. ReLEx Smile stands for “Refractive Lenticule Extraction, Small Incision Lenticule Extraction” and in this method, optical defects of the eye are corrected with minimal intervention on the corneal surface. This technology aims to eliminate the need for glasses and contact lenses by offering personalized treatment.
Eye health and vision problems are one of the fastest growing areas of modern medicine. Laser technologies used in the treatment of common eye problems such as myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism are among the important developments in this field. The ReLEx Smile laser method stands out as a technology that represents the most advanced stage of these developments. In this article, we will examine in detail what the ReLEx Smile laser is, how it works, who it is suitable for and the advantages it offers compared to other laser methods.
ReLEx Smile Laser is a minimally invasive laser treatment used to reshape the cornea of the eye. During the procedure, femtosecond laser technology is used to create a thin lenticule (layer of tissue) within the cornea, which is removed through a small incision. This allows the cornea to be reshaped and corrects eye defects such as myopia or astigmatism. Compared to LASIK, ReLEx Smile creates less damage to the cornea because it requires a smaller incision, resulting in faster recovery and less risk of complications.
There are some important points to consider before the ReLEx Smile procedure. First, you should stop wearing contact lenses at least one month before the procedure to protect your eye health, as contact lenses can affect the surface of the eye and mislead the results of the eye exam. You should also complete any examinations and tests recommended by your ophthalmologist; this is critical to determine your eligibility. On the day of the procedure, make sure your eyes are clean and avoid products such as makeup, creams or lotions. If you have a chronic illness or are taking any medications, it is important to inform your doctor. Finally, meeting with the doctor who will perform the procedure to clarify all your questions and address any concerns will make the process healthier and smoother.
The ReLEx Smile laser offers a personalized treatment tailored to each patient’s eye structure and needs. It is suitable for the correction of myopia up to 10 diopters and astigmatism up to 5 diopters. In this way, even individuals who wear high prescription glasses can benefit from this procedure.
In the ReLEx Smile method, there is no need to create a flap (flap) in the cornea as in traditional methods such as LASIK. Instead, a thin disk (lenticule) is created in the cornea and the optical refractive error of the eye is corrected by removing this tissue. This approach preserves the biomechanical structure of the cornea and minimizes the risk of post-procedure complications.
This laser method has a technology that preserves the natural structure of the cornea as much as possible. This makes it a suitable treatment option even for patients with thin corneas. In addition, the low risk of dry eye after the procedure is an important advantage that distinguishes ReLEx Smile from other laser treatment methods.
ReLEx Smile is a minimally invasive procedure and the recovery period is very short. Most patients can return to their normal life within a few days after the procedure. Removing the lens and reshaping the cornea provides a quick and effective correction of vision problems.
The ReLEx Smile laser method is suitable for people between the ages of 18 and 45 with myopia or astigmatism. However, in order for this method to be applied, the patient must meet certain criteria regarding eye health:
The technology used in ReLEx Smile laser surgery is based on femtosecond laser technology. This technology creates an incision in the corneal layer of the eye with high precision, allowing to shape the inner layers of the cornea and correct eye defects. ReLEx Smile provides minimal invasion of the eye, especially by using a small angled cut, which speeds up the healing process. During surgery, the patient’s eye movements are monitored to ensure the laser is accurately targeted. This technology both increases comfort and minimizes the risk of complications, thus significantly improving patients’ quality of vision.
The ReLEx Smile laser has many advantages compared to other laser treatment methods such as PRK, LASIK and No Touch. For example, while the healing process can be longer and more painful with PRK, it is much faster and more comfortable with ReLEx Smile. The LASIK method, on the other hand, carries some risk of complications since a flap needs to be created in the cornea. Although No Touch is a procedure performed without directly touching the eye, the recovery time is not as fast as ReLEx Smile.
The prices of the ReLEx Smile laser procedure may vary depending on the eye center, the technology used, the experience of the doctor and the patient’s eye structure. Pricing is usually clarified by detailed examination and analysis before the procedure. Since ReLEx Smile is a minimally invasive technique, it may differ in terms of cost compared to other laser treatment methods. Prices, payment options and campaigns determined according to the personal needs of the patients can also be offered at the center where the procedure will be performed. It is important to consult a specialized ophthalmologist for the most accurate price information about ReLEx Smile treatment.
Patients usually do not feel pain during the ReLEx Smile laser procedure. Since the eyes are numbed with drops before the procedure, there is no discomfort. After the procedure is completed, there may be a slight feeling of pressure or discomfort, but this is usually short-lived and goes away within a few hours.
The recovery process after ReLEx Smile laser is very fast and comfortable. Most patients can return to their daily activities the day after the procedure. There may be a slight blurriness or tenderness in the eyes, but this usually resolves within a few days. Full recovery is usually complete within a week.
The ReLEx Smile laser procedure is highly effective in correcting visual impairments such as myopia and astigmatism. Most patients can see clearly without glasses or contacts after the procedure. However, in some cases, minimal corrective lenses may be needed, depending on the patient’s initial eye structure.
The ReLEx Smile laser has a lower risk of dry eye compared to other laser methods. Some patients may experience a slight dry eye after the procedure, but this is usually temporary and returns to normal within a few weeks. This discomfort can be easily managed with eye drops.
