Yes, SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) surgery, like all surgical procedures, carries potential risks and can, in rare cases, go wrong.
While SMILE is generally considered safe and effective, complications can occur. Understanding these potential issues is crucial for informed decision-making.
Potential Risks and Complications of SMILE Surgery
Here's a breakdown of potential complications, drawing from general knowledge about eye surgeries and the reference provided:
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Infection: As with any surgery, infection is a possibility. Poor postoperative care can increase the risk of infection, potentially leading to pain and vision loss. Following the surgeon's instructions regarding antibiotic eye drops and avoiding environments that increase infection risk is vital. This is, however, a rare occurence.
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Epithelial Ingrowth: Although less common than with LASIK, epithelial ingrowth (where cells from the surface of the cornea grow under the flap) can occur after SMILE, though it is generally less of a concern because SMILE is a flapless procedure.
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Dry Eye: Temporary dry eye is a common side effect of refractive surgery, including SMILE. This usually resolves within a few weeks or months, but in some cases, it can be chronic.
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Regression: In some individuals, the refractive correction achieved with SMILE may regress over time, leading to a partial return of nearsightedness.
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Undercorrection or Overcorrection: The desired level of vision correction may not be achieved, resulting in residual nearsightedness (undercorrection) or farsightedness (overcorrection). Enhancement procedures may be necessary to correct these issues.
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Visual Disturbances: Some patients may experience visual disturbances such as halos, glare, or starbursts, especially at night. These are usually temporary but can be persistent in rare cases.
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Reduced Contrast Sensitivity: Contrast sensitivity, which is the ability to distinguish between shades of gray, can be temporarily or, rarely, permanently reduced after SMILE.
Minimizing Risks
While risks are inherent in any surgical procedure, you can take steps to minimize the likelihood of complications:
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Choose an Experienced Surgeon: Select a qualified and experienced refractive surgeon with a proven track record in performing SMILE procedures.
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Thorough Pre-operative Evaluation: Undergo a comprehensive eye examination to determine your suitability for SMILE surgery and identify any potential risk factors.
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Follow Post-operative Instructions Carefully: Adhere strictly to your surgeon's instructions regarding medication, eye care, and activity restrictions.
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Report Any Concerns Promptly: If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns after surgery, contact your surgeon immediately.
Conclusion
While SMILE surgery is generally considered safe and has a high success rate, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and complications. By choosing a qualified surgeon, undergoing a thorough evaluation, and diligently following postoperative instructions, patients can significantly minimize the likelihood of adverse outcomes.
