Tasks like driving can be challenging or even dangerous when your eyesight is not completely clear. Laser vision correction is an excellent way to treat issues like nearsightedness, so you no longer have to rely on glasses or contact lenses. You may have even researched advanced options, like SMILE laser eye surgery, in Woodlands, Sugar Land, River Oaks, and West University.
SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) corrects refractive errors by carefully reshaping the cornea. Just like any other vision treatment, SMILE does come with its own distinct set of pros and cons. Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Fred Mattioli can explain the SMILE process and how it works in full when you visit Mattioli Vision Professionals for an assessment in Houston.
Refractive errors explained
A refractive error means you have blurry or unfocused vision because of the shape of your cornea. When patients experience a refractive error, like nearsightedness, they have problems seeing things farther away. Some people have difficulties watching television from across the room without corrective lenses. Even though there are no natural remedies to treat refractive errors, a professional ophthalmologist can diagnose nearsightedness and offer options for laser vision correction during a consultation.
About SMILE vision correction
Popular treatments like LASIK require making a flap on the surface of the cornea. This can lead to extended recovery times and minor complications, such as dry eyes. SMILE vision correction, on the other hand, is also known as flapless laser eye surgery. This is because SMILE laser eye surgery requires creating a small disc of tissue called a lenticle to change the shape of the cornea. SMILE patients tend to experience faster recovery with less discomfort since no flaps are needed.
Am I a candidate for flapless laser eye surgery?
It is required that all SMILE candidates in Woodlands, Sugar Land, River Oaks, and West University schedule an eye examination before being approved for laser treatment. Dr. Mattioli wants to make sure that patients have healthy eyes with stable vision for at least one year before moving forward. While SMILE vision correction is successful in treating nearsightedness and astigmatism, patients with farsightedness may need to seek alternative options. Mattioli Vision Professionals can create a custom treatment plan based on your needs.
What happens after SMILE
After treatment, patients are given a set of instructions for safely recovering from flapless laser eye surgery at home. Following these guidelines ensures recovery with the least amount of side effects possible. Our office will prescribe eye drops and other medications to help with any discomfort. We also recommend activities to avoid, such as swimming and wearing eye makeup. Dr. Mattioli can schedule follow-up exams to check for complications and keep track of your progress.
Laser vision correction in Houston
Mattioli Vision Professionals works hard to match each individual patient with the right vision correction procedure. To learn about SMILE laser eye surgery for yourself, call to schedule an appointment. Dr. Fred Mattioli is experienced in performing a range of treatments to improve your eyesight and quality of life. Our specialists are proud to offer the most advanced procedures so you can enjoy clear vision.
