ReLEx SMILE (Refractive lenticule exchange- Small incision lenticule extraction) is a new generation of laser vision correction, performed using the Visumax femtosecond laser system (Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany) for the correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism. It ensures greater biomechanical stability, lesser chances of dry eyes and predictable visual and refractive outcomes, making it the procedure of choice for myopic corrections. This article explains in detail regarding the pre-operative work up, steps of the surgical procedure, laser parameters, intra-operative complications such as suction loss, opaque bubble layer, dark spots, cap tear, lenticular adhesion and post-operative complications such as interface haze, interface debris, diffuse lamellar keratitis etc.
and their management. The learning curve of SMILE being steeper than that of LASIK, well experienced…
