Laser eye surgeries have come a long way, and SMILE is one of the newest methods many people prefer mainly because it is less invasive and recovery is quicker than LASIK. But like anything new, it comes with many myths and half-truths that need to be busted for people to trust it and opt for this method when needed.
SMILE is different and, in many ways, a better choice, especially if you lead an active lifestyle and wish to be free of glasses or contact lenses, which are helpful but a hassle.
Since it is a new method, many people may hesitate and not choose it because they are not sure or scared. This is why, Blue Fin Vision offers in-person consultation, where they clear all your doubts and also tell you about SMILE laser cost, so you can decide if it’s the right solution for you. In this post, we will clear the fog and take a look at the common myths surrounding SMILE surgery because your eyes deserve the truth.
Myth 1: SMILE Surgery Is Painful and Takes Longer To Recover
Some people think SMILE is more painful than other methods without realising it is nothing, but a misunderstanding. The truth is SMILE is gentle on your eyes and less invasive because it creates just a tiny cut, much smaller than in traditional laser surgeries and hence, less painful.
People may experience slight irritation for a few hours after surgery, but once it subsides, you will be fine and ready to return to your routine in a day or two. Also, it heals much faster than some other methods, meaning you don’t need to be inactive for long if that’s what you are concerned about.
Myth 2: SMILE Is Effective Only For Myopia
This was true when SMILE first came out, but things have improved a great deal since then, and its benefits are no longer limited to just people with myopia.
SMILE can treat a wide range of vision problems, including myopia and astigmatism and that’s probably the reason, why more people are choosing it over other methods. Also, it’s a great option for anyone who wants to ditch their glasses or contact lenses and live a life without them.
Myth 3: SMILE Is Riskier
It is common to worry about side effects, especially when it concerns your eyes because it’s one of the most important parts of your body and you will not want anything to happen to it.
A common myth people believe is, that SMILE is riskier than other procedures like PRK and LASIK, but that’s not true because it doesn’t create a flap on your cornea. This means, you have no flap-related complications to worry about and also it reduces the chance of long-term issues. If you are concerned about safety, SMILE offers the best advantages if you are ready for it.
Myth 4: SMILE Will Make You Blind
Of all the myths out there, this is probably the most ridiculous mainly because it is not at all true. Millions of people get SMILE done, proving it has a great record and nothing to fear about.
SMILE may have a few side effects, but they are nothing more than minor complications which are common in surgeries like this, so you have nothing to worry about. The reason SMILE is safe is because it is applied to people who have healthy eyes, good health, stable prescription, and are above 18 years old. If you are an eligible candidate, you can get the procedure done without any major trouble, including blindness.
Myth 5: You Will Need Glasses Again With SMILE
This is another thing many people believe in, except that it is not true and needs to be cleared up, so you can move ahead with the procedure without worries. People who undergo SMILE enjoy clear, stable vision for years and almost 97% of them end up with better-than-normal vision afterwards.
Only a tiny number may have a low remaining power, but in most cases, it is so minor you don’t need glasses to deal with it. With the “circle laser” procedure, it is possible to make corrections or perform a touch-up if your vision changes over time.
Myth 6: Prescription Is Too Severe For SMILE
SMILE is meant for people with astigmatism, near-sightedness, or both, but those with farsightedness, need a different solution to address their problem.
For near-sightedness, your prescription needs to be between -1 and -10 diopters, otherwise, you cannot get SMILE done. As far as people with astigmatism are concerned, it can correct up to 3 diopters, not more. If your prescription matches the mentioned limit, you can get SMILE done without a problem.
Myths are spread by people who have less or no knowledge about a procedure, and in the case of SMILE, we have busted them for you already. If you suffer from the issues SMILE can fix, talk to your doctor today and let a professional guide you.