What is the Difference Between Smile and Smile Pro Eye Surgery?

SMILE and SMILE Pro are two advanced methods of refractive eye surgery designed to correct vision imperfections such as myopia and astigmatism. Although they share a common goal of improving visual acuity, their procedures, technological requirements, and patient suitability criteria differ in various ways. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences between SMILE and SMILE Pro, providing a comprehensive understanding of their respective methodologies, benefits, and potential drawbacks.

Overview of SMILE and SMILE Pro

SMILE, which stands for “Small Incision Lenticule Extraction,” is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery that involves creating a small incision in the cornea to remove a lenticule (a thin layer of tissue) to reshape the cornea and correct vision imperfections. This method was first developed by the company Zeiss in 2011 and gained FDA approval in 2016.

On the other hand, SMILE Pro, also known as “ReLex SMILE,” utilizes a similar technique but with added advancements. This procedure was introduced by the company Carl Zeiss Meditec in 2020 and is an upgraded version of the original SMILE surgery.

Both procedures use a femtosecond laser to perform the surgery, making them precise, safe, and effective options for vision correction. However, there are some key differences between SMILE and SMILE Pro that patients should be aware of before deciding on the best option for their needs.

Surgical Approach: Comparing SMILE and SMILE Pro Procedures

The surgical approach utilized in both SMILE and SMILE Pro surgeries is another noteworthy distinction. In SMILE, the surgeon uses a femtosecond laser to create a small incision in the cornea, through which a lenticule is accessed and extracted. The removal of this piece of tissue alters the shape of the cornea, thus correcting the refractive error.

In contrast, the SMILE Pro procedure involves an extra step. After the femtosecond laser creates the lenticule, a second laser is used to make the corneal incision. This two-step process allows for a higher degree of surgical precision. It can be tailored more specifically to the unique needs of each patient, offering a more personalized surgery experience.

Furthermore, the improved 3D imaging technology of SMILE Pro allows surgeons to get a more detailed and accurate view of the cornea. This added detail can be particularly beneficial for patients with more complex vision imperfections, as it provides the surgeon with more information to guide their surgical approach and further increase the chances of a successful outcome.

Treatment Range: Exploring the Scope of SMILE and SMILE Pro Applications

SMILE and SMILE Pro vary in their treatment ranges, demonstrating distinct scopes of application. The original SMILE surgery is effective in the correction of myopia or nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism. It is designed to treat patients with a diopter range of -1.00 to -10.00 for myopia and up to -5.00 for astigmatism.

SMILE Pro, on the other hand, offers a wider range of treatment capabilities. The advancements incorporated into the SMILE Pro procedure allow it to treat not only myopia and astigmatism but also hyperopia or farsightedness. The ability to correct hyperopia is a significant leap forward from the traditional SMILE procedure, broadening the scope of patients who can be treated. Moreover, SMILE Pro can treat a diopter range of -1.00 to -12.00 for myopia, up to +6.00 for hyperopia, and up to -5.00 for astigmatism, indicating a higher degree of flexibility in its application.

Therefore, while both SMILE and SMILE Pro offer effective solutions for vision correction, their applications differ. SMILE Pro, with its expanded treatment range, has the potential to benefit a broader array of patients with varying vision imperfections.

Patient Suitability

Another significant difference between SMILE and SMILE Pro is in the range of vision imperfections they can correct and which patients are eligible for each procedure. SMILE is best suited for patients with myopia (nearsightedness) ranging from -1.00 dioptres to -10.00 dioptres and astigmatism up to -5.00 dioptres.

On the other hand, SMILE Pro has a wider range of eligible patients, including those with higher degrees of myopia (-12.00 dioptres) and astigmatism (-5.00 dioptres). It also can correct hyperopia (farsightedness) up to +4.00 dioptres, making it a more versatile option for vision correction.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Both SMILE and SMILE Pro have their unique benefits and potential drawbacks. As mentioned earlier, SMILE Pro offers a broader range of treatment options, allowing more patients to benefit from the procedure. It also has a higher degree of surgical precision thanks to its advanced technology and technique.

Benefits of SMILE and SMILE Pro

• Rapid Visual Recovery: Both SMILE and SMILE Pro offer rapid visual recovery, with most patients experiencing clear vision within 24 hours.
• Minimal Downtime: Both procedures require minimal downtime, allowing patients to return to their daily activities quickly.
• Reduced Dry Eye Symptoms: SMILE and SMILE Pro are less likely to cause dry eye symptoms compared to LASIK, as they create a smaller incision in the cornea.
• Suitable for Higher Refractive Errors: SMILE and SMILE Pro can treat a wider range of refractive errors, including higher degrees of myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism.

Benefits of SMILE Pro Over SMILE

• Enhanced Precision and Customization: SMILE Pro utilizes advanced software and laser technology, enabling greater precision and customization during the procedure.
• Faster Visual Recovery: SMILE Pro often results in even faster visual recovery than SMILE, with some patients experiencing clear vision within 1 hour.
• Reduced Dry Eye Symptoms: SMILE Pro is associated with an even lower risk of dry eye symptoms compared to SMILE.
• Potential for Treating Higher Degrees of Myopia and Astigmatism: SMILE Pro can treat even higher degrees of myopia and astigmatism than SMILE. However, the suitability for each patient may vary.

Ultimately, the decision between SMILE and SMILE Pro will depend on the unique needs and eligibility of each patient, as well as their surgeon’s recommendation. So, it is always advisable to consult with a qualified eye specialist before opting for any vision correction surgery.