Small Incision Lenticule Extraction

The Next Generation of Laser Vision Correction

SMILE, or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, is a modern, minimally invasive laser vision correction procedure. Dr. Shah performs SMILE as a precise and gentle way to treat myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. This procedure represents an evolution from older laser techniques, offering a safe and effective path to visual freedom with minimal disruption to the eye's surface.

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Descemet's Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty

DMEK

DMEK is a highly advanced corneal transplant that Dr. Shah performs for patients with vision loss from a damaged inner cell layer. This layer, called the endothelium, acts like a pump to keep your cornea clear. When these cells fail, often with a condition like Fuchs' Dystrophy, the cornea swells and becomes cloudy.

Dr. Shah performs this procedure by replacing only the faulty cell layer with a new, healthy one, leaving all other healthy corneal tissue untouched. It’s like replacing a tiny, worn-out part to get a larger machine running perfectly again.

This precise approach offers significant advantages. Your vision typically returns much faster, the final quality of sight is superb, and the risk of your body rejecting the new tissue is remarkably low.

Descemet's Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty

DSEK

DSEK is a partial corneal transplant that Dr. Shah uses to address vision loss from a failing endothelial cell layer. This delicate layer of cells on the back surface of your cornea is crucial for keeping your vision clear. When it stops working properly, your cornea can swell and become cloudy.

The DSEK procedure involves placing a thin, healthy layer of donor tissue onto the back of your cornea. Unlike a full corneal transplant, Dr. Shah's approach with DSEK targets and replaces only the damaged part.

This targeted method uses a much smaller incision, which leads to a more stable eye after surgery. This means the wound heals quickly and is far more stable. DSEK also significantly reduces the risk of serious complications like bleeding or tissue rejection, which helps protect your sight.

How the SMILE Procedure Works

SMILE is unique because it is a "flap-free" procedure. Unlike LASIK, which requires a larger corneal flap, SMILE reshapes your cornea from the inside.

Creating the Lenticule

Dr. Shah uses a precise femtosecond laser to create a tiny, disc-shaped piece of tissue inside the cornea. This piece of tissue is called a lenticule. The laser sculpts the lenticule to the exact shape needed to correct your prescription.

Removing the Lenticule

Through a single, very small incision—only a few millimeters wide—Dr. Shah extracts the lenticule.

Reshaping the Cornea

Removing the lenticule changes the shape of the cornea. This, in turn, corrects the refractive error and gives you clear vision.

Benefits and Recovery

The SMILE procedure is known for its quick and comfortable recovery.

Because the incision is so small, the eye's surface nerves are less disturbed. This translates to less risk of post-operative dry eye and a more stable corneal structure. Most patients notice a significant improvement in vision immediately and can resume their normal activities within a day.

Dr. Shah and her team will determine if you are a candidate for SMILE. It can be a superior choice for people with an active lifestyle or those with concerns about dry eye.