Step 1: Pre-SMILE Assessment
Comprehensive eye evaluation including vision testing, corneal scans, and consultation to determine suitability for SMILE.
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SMILE Surgery
Quick and Effective Vision Correction
SMILE Surgery in Singapore
At Eagle Eye Centre, we offer SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), a next-generation, minimally invasive vision correction procedure designed to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. SMILE is performed using the advanced ZEISS VisuMax 800 femtosecond laser, which enables precise lenticule creation through a single small incision, without the need for a corneal flap.
Our experienced ophthalmologists carefully assess each patient to determine suitability for SMILE, taking into account factors such as corneal thickness, refractive error, and lifestyle needs. The VisuMax 800 platform offers enhanced laser speed, improved patient comfort, and high accuracy, supporting consistent surgical outcomes and faster visual recovery.
How SMILE eye surgery works
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) corrects vision by reshaping the cornea to improve how light focuses on the retina. Using a femtosecond laser, a thin disc of corneal tissue (called a lenticule) is created within the cornea and removed through a small incision. This changes the shape of the cornea without the need to create a corneal flap.
As no flap is involved, SMILE is a minimally invasive procedure that preserves more of the cornea’s natural structure. The small incision heals naturally, without the need for stitches.
How SMILE eye surgery works
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) corrects vision by reshaping the cornea to improve how light focuses on the retina. Using a femtosecond laser, a thin disc of corneal tissue (called a lenticule) is created within the cornea and removed through a small incision. This changes the shape of the cornea without the need to create a corneal flap.
As no flap is involved, SMILE is a minimally invasive procedure that preserves more of the cornea’s natural structure. The small incision heals naturally, without the need for stitches.
Quick Facts about SMILE eye surgery
Procedure Time
About 15 minutes per eye
Recovery Time
1 to 2 days for most patients
Anaesthesia
Numbing eye drops only
Pain Level
Minimal discomfort
Results
Clearer vision typically within 24 to 48 hours
Quick Facts about SMILE eye surgery
What vision problems can SMILE correct?
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is primarily used to correct myopia (short-sightedness) and myopic astigmatism.
Conditions SMILE can treat
SMILE reshapes the cornea by removing a precisely calculated lenticule of tissue, allowing light to focus more accurately on the retina and improving overall visual clarity.
Myopia (Short-sightedness)
Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, such as road signs or presentation screens.
Conditions SMILE does not correct
Patients with these conditions may be better suited for other refractive procedures such as LASIK, PRK, or lens-based treatments, depending on individual assessment.
Hyperopia
(Long-sightedness)
Presbyopia
(Age-related near vision changes)
Conditions SMILE does not correct
Am I a suitable candidate for SMILE?
You may be a suitable candidate for SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) if you are 18 years or older, have stable vision, and do not have active eye conditions that may affect healing or visual outcomes. A comprehensive eye assessment is required to evaluate your overall eye health, refractive error, and corneal profile.
SMILE may be considered for patients with myopia or myopic astigmatism, depending on individual clinical findings. During your assessment, your ophthalmologist will assess factors such as corneal thickness, corneal shape, and pupil size to determine whether SMILE is appropriate for you.
If your corneas are found to be thin or borderline, your doctor may recommend corneal cross-linking (CXL) using the Avedro system as an adjunctive treatment to support corneal strength and long-term stability, where clinically indicated.
What happens during the treatment?
Treatment process
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Step 1: Pre-SMILE Assessment
Comprehensive eye evaluation including vision testing, corneal scans, and consultation to determine suitability for SMILE.
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Step 2: Surgery Day
Eye preparation followed by SMILE surgery using a femtosecond laser to create and remove a lenticule through a small incision. No corneal flap is created.
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Step 3: Immediate Recovery
A short rest period after the procedure. Medicated eye drops will be prescribed, and post-procedure care instructions will be explained.
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Step 4: Follow-Up Care
Scheduled reviews typically at Day 1, Week 1, Month 1, and further follow-ups as advised by your ophthalmologist.
What happens during the treatment?
Treatment process
Step 2: Surgery Day
Eye preparation followed by SMILE surgery using a femtosecond laser to create and remove a lenticule through a small incision. No corneal flap is created.
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Step 3: Immediate Recovery
A short rest period after the procedure. Medicated eye drops will be prescribed, and post-procedure care instructions will be explained.
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Step 4: Follow-Up Care
Scheduled reviews typically at Day 1, Week 1, Month 1, and further follow-ups as advised by your ophthalmologist.
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Treatment comparison guide
Recovery & aftercare
Full recovery after EPI-LASIK can take up to 3 months, though this varies by individual. Patients are advised to follow post-operative care instructions closely, including the use of eye drops and attending follow-up appointments.
First 24 Hours
Light sensitivity, tearing, blurry vision. Use prescribed drops.
First Week
Avoid rubbing eyes, swimming, makeup, dusty environments.
First Month
Avoid contact sports. Use sunglasses outdoors.
Ongoing Care
Attend all follow-up appointments.
Recovery & aftercare
First 24 Hours
Light sensitivity, tearing, blurry vision. Use prescribed drops.
First Week
Avoid rubbing eyes, swimming, makeup, dusty environments.
First Month
Avoid contact sports. Use sunglasses outdoors.
Ongoing Care
Attend all follow-up appointments.
Frequently asked questions
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WHAT YOU SEE MATTERS
Schedule an eye check up
If you are considering SMILE to correct your vision, our team at Eagle Eye Centre is here to support you every step of the way. During your consultation, our experienced ophthalmologists will perform a thorough eye examination to determine if SMILE is a suitable option for your eyes.