Exploring Vision Correction Options
LASIK, SMILE, and ICL are all types of refractive eye surgery that can be used to correct common vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis is a laser surgery that uses a laser to reshape the cornea to correct vision. It is the most commonly performed refractive surgery procedure.
Implantable Collamer Lens is a procedure that involves the insertion of a small, flexible lens between the iris and the natural lens. This lens helps to correct vision by focusing light on the retina. ICL is a good option for people with high myopia or high hyperopia who are not suitable for laser surgery.
Refractive Lens Exchange is a type of refractive surgery that involves replacing the natural lens of the eye with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct vision. The procedure is similar to cataract surgery, but instead of removing a clouded lens, a clear, artificial lens is inserted to correct a person's refractive error (nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism). RLE is typically recommended for people who have reached the age of 40 or older and have a high degree of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism and are not suitable for laser surgery or for those who want to correct their vision and also avoid or delay the onset of cataract.
Small Incision Lenticule Extraction is a laser surgery that uses a laser to create a small, circular disc of tissue called a lenticule within the cornea, which is then removed to reshape the cornea and improve vision. SMILE is a newer technology, and it has the advantage of causing less dry eye and corneal nerve damage than LASIK.