Is ReLEx® SMILE® the best option for dry eyes? Or can I still do LASIK?

Doctor's Answer

Photo of Dr Tony  Ho
Dr Tony Ho

Ophthalmologist

Current options available for laser vision correction include LASIK and ReLEx SMILE that are cornea flap-based procedures, and also no flap Advanced Surface Ablation methods like TransPRK.

During LASIK, the doctor will have to cut your cornea to create an external flap. This will result in cut corneal nerve endings, increasing the risk of dry eyes.

In ReLEx SMILE, the cut made to your cornea is smaller than in LASIK and thus, the incidence of dry eyes is lower as compared to LASIK.

However, TransPRK is a surface-based, no cut no flap procedure that has been shown in scientific studies to have a lower incidence of dry eye complications.

If you have dry eyes, it is best not to opt for a procedure that involves cutting a corneal flap. Instead, you may want to opt for a surface-based procedure like TransPRK.

In any case, do see your ophthalmologist to do a thorough evaluation of your eyes before deciding on any procedure 🙂

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