Can SMILE Eye Surgery Correct Farsighted Vision?

At Wang Vision Institute in Nashville, TN, Dr. Ming Wang, Harvard & MIT (MD); PhD (laser physics) is dedicated to helping patients safeguard their eye health and achieve clearer vision using the most advanced and innovative technologies available today. We are proud to be the first center in the state to have performed the cutting-edge ZEISS SMILE procedure, which offers a number of exciting benefits compared with traditional LASIK and other laser vision correction procedures. Keep reading to discover how ZEISS SMILE eye surgery works, including which common vision conditions can be corrected with ZEISS SMILE and what to expect during and after the procedure.

What is SMILE eye surgery?

SMILE, sometimes referred to as “small-incision LASIK,” is one of the newer and more advanced laser vision correction procedures available today. During ZEISS SMILE surgery, Dr. Wang utilizes an advanced laser to reshape the cornea, helping to restore clearer vision and often removing the patient’s need to wear glasses or contacts.

What’s the difference between SMILE vs. LASIK?

While patients may achieve almost identical outcomes with both SMILE and LASIK in terms of improvements to their vision, there are some important differences between the two procedures. The primary difference between LASIK and ZEISS SMILE surgeries is the length of the incision required during the procedure. An average LASIK incision is about 20 mm, while the ZEISS SMILE incision is typically only about 4 – 6 mm long. This provides a number of exciting advantages, including:

• Shorter recovery period
• Less discomfort during recovery
• Ability to retain more of the eye’s natural strength and nerve network
• Reduced risk of corneal flap dislocation

Who is eligible for SMILE laser eye surgery?

To determine whether you may qualify for ZEISS SMILE surgery, Dr. Wang will perform a comprehensive eye exam and consultation. Generally speaking, candidates for SMILE laser eye surgery are those who:

• Are at least 21 years old
• Have myopia or mild to moderate astigmatism
• Have good overall health and eye health
• Have healthy corneas
• Desire clearer vision without glasses or contacts

Does SMILE work for farsightedness?

At this time, the ZEISS SMILE procedure is approved only for cases of myopia (nearsightedness) and mild to moderate astigmatism. Patients with hyperopia (farsightedness) are not currently considered candidates for ZEISS SMILE surgery. However, Dr. Wang is committed to helping all patients achieve their vision goals and will work closely with you to determine whether an alternative laser surgery — like PRK or traditional LASIK — or another treatment option may be more suitable for you.

Will I still need glasses after ZEISS SMILE surgery?

Many patients are able to stop relying on glasses and contacts after SMILE laser vision correction. However, this will vary from patient to patient. Even when patients do not achieve perfect 20/20 vision with SMILE, they typically will require much lower strength prescriptions (or simply readers) that are used infrequently for isolated events and activities. During your initial consultation, Dr. Wang can help you better understand what potential results SMILE may have to offer you.

See the world in a whole new way with SMILE eye surgery in Nashville, TN

As one of Nashville’s premier vision centers, we are proud to help celebrities, VIPs, and local residents achieve the clearer vision and freedom from glasses and contacts they deserve. To learn more about the revolutionary ZEISS SMILE procedure and whether you may qualify for SMILE surgery, call Wang Vision Institute to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Ming Wang today.