ReLEx SMILE
ReLEx SMILE
Refractive Lenticule Extraction, Small Incision Lenticule Extraction
What is ?
ReLEx SMILE is a minimally invasive laser vision correction procedure that does not require the creation of corneal flap, leaving the outer corneal structure intact.
ReLEx SMILE uses only one type of laser, which is the femtosecond (ultrashort pulse) laser to create a small lens-shaped tissue called the lenticule, beneath the cornea surface. The same laser creates a small incision (3.5 mm) at the side of the cornea through which the lenticule is removed. This changes the shape of the cornea, therefore achieving the desired refractive correction.
VisuMax® From ZEISS
ReLEx SMILE is performed on the VisuMax® femtosecond laser system from ZEISS. It is characterised by its speed, precision, high laser frequency and gentle treatment technique. The results are short treatment times and high accuracy for patients.
How does ReLEx SMILE work?
Step 1: Lenticule creation. A small piece of corneal tissue (lenticule) and a small incision (3.5 mm) are created beneath the surface of the cornea.
Step 2: Lenticule removal. The lenticule is removed through the small incision from inside the cornea.
Step 3: Impairment is corrected. Removing the lenticule changes the shape of the cornea, achieving the desired refractive correction.