Not everyone is a candidate for every type of laser eye surgery, and SMILE is no exception. This article provides a comprehensive guide to determining whether SMILE is the right choice for you based on your specific vision needs and eye health.
SMILE is particularly effective for patients with mild to moderate myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism, but it is not currently approved for hyperopia (farsightedness). One of the key factors that make someone a good candidate for SMILE is having a healthy cornea with sufficient thickness, as this procedure is less invasive than LASIK and does not require the creation of a corneal flap. Therefore, individuals with thinner corneas, who may not qualify for LASIK, could find SMILE to be a suitable option.
The article also discusses age considerations, noting that candidates should typically be over 18 and have stable vision for at least a year before undergoing surgery. Additionally, it outlines the importance of overall eye health. Individuals with certain conditions, such as keratoconus, glaucoma, or significant dry eye syndrome, may not be eligible for SMILE or may need to address these issues before surgery.
By the end of this article, readers will have a clear understanding of the candidacy requirements for SMILE, helping them assess whether this innovative procedure could meet their vision correction needs.