SMILE Eye Surgery Myths Debunked: What You Really Need to Know
Eyes are among the most vital organs in the human body, and the thought of losing vision can be frightening. Many people hesitate to undergo laser eye surgery due to common misconceptions—such as fear of pain, complications, or permanent damage. One procedure often surrounded by myths is SMILE eye surgery.
In this article, we debunk the most common SMILE surgery myths and explain why this advanced laser vision correction procedure is considered safe, effective, and minimally invasive.
The Surgery Is New and Still Developing
SMILE stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, a type of eye surgery that uses advanced precision laser technology to treat myopia, also known as near-sightedness. It can be regarded as a more precise form of LASIK. While SMILE is relatively new compared to LASIK and other procedures, it is both safe and effective. The FDA has tracked patient recovery data and found that recovery outcomes from this procedure are long-term and among the highest recorded.
Glasses Will Be Required Post-Procedure
You do not necessarily need glasses after the surgery unless you fail to follow post-operative precautions, which is not the surgeon’s fault. According to the FDA, 98.5% of patients experience improved vision, and around 93% achieve near-perfect vision after the procedure. Only about 2.5% of patients seek further medical assistance for vision issues a year after surgery, while the majority either continue to improve or maintain stable vision.
Eyes, like any human organ, naturally deteriorate with age if not properly cared for. No treatment can completely stop or reverse this process. However, achieving clear vision now and maintaining good eye care can help delay the need for glasses later in life.
You Can Go Blind From Incorrect Surgery
This procedure is not only smooth but also highly effective. Only a small fraction of patients report glare after surgery, and in most cases, it disappears within a few months. Minor issues, if any, can be corrected with additional procedures. Unlike other surgeries, SMILE eliminates the risk of flap-related complications. It is considered safer than LASIK because the incision is approximately 80% smaller, delivering greater precision while significantly reducing the risk of post-surgery dry eyes.
The Procedure Is Painful and Can Go Wrong at Any Time
Blinking is a natural reflex when something comes close to the eye, which is why many people worry about undergoing eye surgery. During SMILE surgery, anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the nerves, making the procedure comfortable. A speculum and suction device are also used to keep the eye in place throughout the surgery, which typically lasts only 15 to 20 minutes per eye. Most patients are surprised to find that the procedure is painless. One patient shared: “The procedure itself was painless. The most difficult part was staring at the green light for 15 seconds as it moved around my pupil.”
SMILE Requires a Long Recovery
As discussed earlier, SMILE does not require extensive aftercare or prolonged bed rest. Patients do not need assistance for daily activities for long periods. In most cases, they are advised to avoid sunlight and bright lights for just one day after surgery and to use prescribed medications to keep the eyes moist. Other than that, patients are free to move around within a day. Eye-straining activities, such as extended computer use, may need to be avoided for only a few days. One SMILE patient shared: “I had the SMILE procedure done a couple of months ago. Investing in my vision is the best thing I’ve done all year. Going from wearing contact lenses to waking up and seeing clearly has been life-changing.”
Severe Prescriptions Cannot Be Treated
SMILE surgery is specifically designed to treat vision problems such as myopia and astigmatism. While it does not currently correct far-sightedness, it is highly effective for near-sightedness as long as no other underlying eye conditions are present. One patient recalled: “I had a prescription of -10 in both eyes. Losing my glasses or contacts was one of my biggest fears. After getting the SMILE procedure, I no longer worry about that.”
SMILE Does Not Guarantee Permanent Results
It is true that SMILE surgery does not guarantee that further procedures will never be required. Some patients have underlying health conditions that affect how their eyes heal, which may necessitate additional corrective treatment. While repeating the same procedure on the same eye is not recommended, other corrective options may be available. In some cases, a follow-up procedure may be needed to refine the shape of the cornea. Even so, improving vision earlier in life can help maintain better eyesight as you age, making corrective surgery a valuable long-term investment.