Yes, SMILE is considered a safe procedure for most healthy adults who meet certain criteria.
What is SMILE?
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a type of laser eye surgery designed to correct refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. It's a minimally invasive procedure that reshapes the cornea using a laser.
Is SMILE Safe for Everyone?
According to the provided reference, SMILE (LALEX) is a safe, effective option for most healthy adults who are 18 or older.
Safety, like any medical procedure, depends heavily on the individual candidate's health and specific circumstances.
Key Indicators for Safe Candidacy (Based on Reference):
- Age: Must be 18 or older.
- Health Status: Must be a "healthy adult".
- Eye Health: No underlying issues with eye health.
- Expectations: Having reasonable expectations about the outcome.
The reference also highlights that people who have been told they are not good candidates for other procedures can often still have SMILE. This suggests SMILE might be a viable and safe option for some individuals who were previously excluded from other laser eye surgeries, assuming they meet the SMILE-specific criteria.
Factors Affecting Safety and Suitability
While the reference provides key points, determining if SMILE is safe for you requires a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with a qualified eye surgeon. They will assess:
- Your refractive error stability
- Corneal thickness and shape
- Overall eye health
- Medical history
This evaluation ensures you are a suitable candidate and that the procedure is likely to be safe and effective for your specific needs.
In conclusion, based on the information provided, SMILE is a generally safe procedure for well-screened, healthy adults who meet the age requirement and have healthy eyes.
