SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) eye surgery is a minimally invasive laser procedure designed to correct refractive vision problems, such as myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. Unlike traditional LASIK surgery, which involves creating a flap in the cornea, SMILE involves the use of a femtosecond laser to create a small, lens-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea itself. The procedure begins with the application of anesthetic eye drops to ensure the patient’s comfort. The surgeon then uses the femtosecond laser to precisely cut the lenticule and create a small incision in the cornea, usually less than 4 millimeters in size.

The second phase of the SMILE procedure involves the removal of the lenticule through the small incision, effectively reshaping the cornea to correct the vision problem. The small size of the incision reduces the disruption to corneal nerves and promotes quicker healing. Once the lenticule is extracted, the corneal tissue collapses into place, altering the cornea's curvature to improve vision. Recovery after SMILE surgery is typically swift, with many patients noticing an improvement in their vision within a few days. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the healing process, and patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities and protect their eyes from contamination in the immediate post-operative period.