Posted by: LaserVue LASIK & Cataract Center in SMILE
Can SMILE Eye Surgery Correct Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is one of the most common vision problems that individuals in the United States suffer from. In fact, it has been estimated that over three million Americans are affected by the condition. Individuals with astigmatism experience blurry or distorted vision, both near and far. This can make day-to-day life dizzying and frustrating.
Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea. The cornea and lens of an eye is normally smooth and curved equally — when it isn’t, light is not refracted, or bent, properly. Living with astigmatism can seem like you are looking into a fun house mirror. Objects appear to be too wide, too tall, too short, or too thin.
In addition to distorted and blurred vision, those with astigmatism experience:
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Squinting
Going to work, driving, and other activities can be difficult to carry out with astigmatism. Over time, different technologies have evolved to treat this condition.
ReLEx SMILE for Astigmatism
Many individuals seek treatment for astigmatism beyond eyeglasses or contact lenses. Not only is the upkeep of both of these things expensive, in some cases they can be dangerous. Contact lenses have been known to cause infections when they are not cleaned and cared for correctly. This makes a refractive surgery, like ReLEx SMILE, a great alternative. SMILE is a quick and relatively painless treatment option that can result in better vision for life.
In 2018, the SMILE procedure was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for patients with astigmatism. It is considered to be the most advanced laser eye surgery in the last 10 years. It is different from LASIK eye surgery in that it is a one-step, one-laser procedure. During SMILE, a computer guided, highly focused laser will cut a tiny incision in the cornea and then remove a small piece of corneal tissue. This will reshape your cornea and correct your vision quickly and safely.
ReLEx SMILE eye surgery has many benefits including:
- Safe & accurate
- Fast recovery time
- Quiet, odorless, and blade-free
- Reduced chance of dry eye syndrome
- A good option for those who are not candidates for LASIK
If you are looking for a quick and permanent way to improve your vision issues due to astigmatism, SMILE might be the procedure for you.
Am I a Candidate for SMILE Eye Surgery?
Astigmatism is very common. The condition can be inherited, or the result of an eye disease, injury, or surgery. If you are noticing that your vision is not as great as it can be, you might be affected by astigmatism. If you are experiencing the symptoms we mentioned above, like blurry & distorted vision, eyestrain, or discomfort, you might be a candidate for SMILE eye surgery.
These are general guidelines to determine if you should consider SMILE eye surgery. The best way to be sure is to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an experienced and trusted laser eye surgeon. They will help you determine if SMILE is the right procedure for you.
SMILE Eye Surgery is Available in the Bay Area
With three locations across the Bay Area, LaserVue Eye Center has helped thousands of patients achieve better vision through refractive eye surgeries, like SMILE. If you are one of the three million Americans suffering from astigmatism, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Jay Bansal and the LaserVue Eye Center team to find out more about SMILE eye surgery and how it can improve your vision and your life after just one procedure.
