Advanced Laser Vision Correction
SMILE LASIK
Experience the pinnacle of vision correction with SMILE LASIK eye surgery at Rudd Vision, where our exceptional services and inviting ambiance set us apart in the region. Located in Puyallup and proudly serving patients from Olympia to Tacoma and up to Seattle, WA, ophthalmologist Dr. Jay Rudd and his dedicated team are committed to providing a superior eye care experience. Dr. Rudd is committed to incorporating advanced technologies into his practice, and he is proud to offer SMILE LASIK, the most advanced new procedure available.
At Rudd Vision, we take pride in our premium services and the collaborative approach of our team, ensuring outstanding customer service and patient satisfaction at every step. Discover the unparalleled quality of care and transformative vision correction that only Rudd Vision can offer.
What is SMILE LASIK?
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) LASIK, also referred to as SMILE, is a life-changing, minimally invasive laser vision correction procedure designed to improve visual acuity for patients with nearsightedness and astigmatism. You might also hear this procedure referred to as LALEX, or laser-assisted lenticule extraction.
Unlike traditional LASIK eye surgery, SMILE refractive surgery does not involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, this advanced technique utilizes the precision of a femtosecond laser to create a small, disc-shaped piece of tissue called a lenticule just beneath the surface of the cornea.1
The lenticule is then removed through a tiny incision, allowing for a precise reshaping of the cornea that enhances the eye’s focusing ability. This innovative approach not only minimizes disruption to the corneal surface but also reduces the risk of certain side effects associated with other types of laser eye surgery. With more than 8 million successful procedures performed worldwide, SMILE offers a safe, effective, and cutting-edge solution for those seeking clearer vision.2
SMILE vs LASIK
SMILE is often referred to as a flapless-LASIK eye surgery but is a technically distinct procedure that provides many benefits over LASIK. During LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), a flap is created in the cornea, and an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea by removing tissue underneath the flap. On the contrary, SMILE surgery does not involve flap creation, as the femtosecond laser creates the lenticule through an intact cornea. Dr. Jay Rudd then removes this thin layer of corneal tissue through a tiny side incision, thus reshaping the cornea and correcting nearsightedness and astigmatism.
How we can help
Benefits of SMILE
SMILE vision correction offers an array of benefits, including:
Minimally Invasive Procedure
SMILE LASIK offers a flapless approach to vision correction. By making only a small, precise incision, the procedure is minimally invasive and often results in a comfortable post-operative experience for patients.
Fast and Proven
With over 8 million SMILE refractive surgery procedures performed globally, this advanced laser vision correction technique has a proven track record of delivering clear vision. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes, providing quick and reliable results for correcting refractive errors such as nearsightedness and astigmatism.
Rapid Visual Recovery
Patients undergoing SMILE LASIK typically enjoy a swift recovery period. Most individuals can resume their normal activities, including work, exercise, and wearing makeup, the day after the procedure, thanks to the minimally invasive nature of SMILE. Vision improvement is also rapid, stabilizing over the first few days to a week.
Enhanced Comfort
SMILE LASIK is designed to minimize discomfort during and after the procedure. Patients often report little to no pain, and the risk of transient dry eye syndrome is lower compared to other vision correction surgeries.
Fewer Side Effects
By avoiding the creation of a corneal flap, SMILE LASIK reduces the risk of certain complications such as flap wrinkling or displacement. The smaller incision also helps preserve corneal nerves, which can lead to less postoperative dry eye and irritation.3
Freedom from Lenses
One of the main benefits of SMILE LASIK is the potential to significantly reduce or eliminate the need for corrective eyewear like glasses and contact lenses. This allows patients to enjoy a more active and hassle-free lifestyle with clearer vision.
Leaders in Vision Correction Surgery
Why Choose Rudd Vision for SMILE?
At Rudd Vision, we are dedicated to more than just enhancing your sight; we strive to elevate your entire eye care experience. Our approach to SMILE LASIK combines top-tier, advanced technology with personalized, compassionate care, ensuring that each patient’s journey is exceptional.
- Unmatched Quality and Care: Leveraging advanced technology and Dr. Jay Rudd’s extensive surgical expertise, we provide customized vision correction solutions that deliver optimal outcomes.
- A Team Approach: Our cohesive eye care team works closely with your primary eye care provider to ensure every aspect of your journey is smooth and supportive, making you feel secure and cared for every step of the way.
- An Exceptional Experience: From the welcoming environment to our attentive service, every visit is designed to make you feel valued and respected.
- In-Office Surgery: We offer in-office surgery, meeting all your pre-operative, surgical, and post-operative needs without the need to travel to a hospital or surgery center.
At Rudd Vision, it’s not just about the high-quality SMILE LASIK procedure but the whole journey—marked by kindness, understanding, and genuine care for your well-being.
Your Surgery
Preparing for SMILE Surgery
The most crucial part of preparing for refractive surgery is your SMILE LASIK consultation with Dr. Jay Rudd. During this appointment, Dr. Rudd will conduct a thorough eye exam and review your medical history and eye health to determine if SMILE is the right choice for you.
Once your SMILE surgery is scheduled, you will receive detailed preoperative instructions, which may include:
- Stopping the use of certain medications, vitamins, and supplements
- Ceasing contact lens wear (soft lenses: 3-5 days; hard lenses: 2 weeks)
- Arriving with a clean face, free of lotions, creams, or makeup
- Refraining from eating or drinking for a period before the procedure
- Arranging transportation, as you won’t be able to drive home post-surgery
These steps ensure you are well-prepared and can achieve the best possible outcome from your SMILE procedure.
How it works
The SMILE Vision Correction Procedure
SMILE vision correction is a quick outpatient procedure, typically taking just a few minutes per eye.
Before the procedure, anesthetic eye drops will numb your eyes, ensuring you feel no pain. A device will gently hold your eyes open. Once you’re comfortable, Dr. Jay Rudd will use a femtosecond laser to create a thin, contact lens-shaped layer of tissue (called a lenticule) beneath the cornea’s surface. This lenticule is then removed through a tiny incision, reshaping the cornea and correcting your vision.
Get back to your Every Day Life
Recovery After SMILE
After your SMILE surgery, you’ll need someone to drive you home. For the first 24 hours, avoid activities that strain your eyes, such as reading, watching television, or using the computer. One of the advantages of SMILE is the quick recovery time, allowing many patients to return to work and normal activities the next day. You will be scheduled for a follow-up visit with Dr. Rudd to monitor your healing the day after your vision correction surgery.
Your vision may fluctuate initially but should improve within a few hours. You’ll be prescribed eye drops for the next week to 10 days. Most patients experience full healing and complete vision correction within a week.
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions About SMILE
Yes, SMILE can correct up to -3.0 diopters of astigmatism. This makes it a versatile option for patients with both nearsightedness and astigmatism.
While SMILE is considered safe and effective, and is associated with a lower risk of certain complications including dry eye and corneal nerve damage than LASIK.4 Still, any surgical procedure carries some risk. Potential side effects of SMILE vision correction surgery include:
- Inflammation
- Infection
- Glare and/or halos
- Over- or under-correction of vision5
The cost of SMILE LASIK surgery is similar to that of traditional LASIK. Our team will provide a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation.
SMILE is generally considered an elective procedure and is not covered by most health insurance plans. However, you can use funds from health savings accounts (HSA) or flexible spending accounts (FSA) to cover the cost.
Most likely, yes! Ideal candidates are at least 21 years old, in good overall eye health, have a stable prescription, and sufficient corneal thickness. During your consultation, Dr. Rudd will determine if SMILE LASIK is right for you.
Contact Us
Ready to transform your vision? Experience exceptional eye care at Rudd Vision, where your journey to clear sight is supported by a team that treats you like family. Contact us today to schedule your SMILE consultation with Dr. Jay Rudd, serving patients from Olympia through Tacoma, and up to Seattle, WA. Rediscover the world with confidence and clarity at Rudd Vision.
Book a Consultation1 American Academy of Ophthalmology. What Is Small Incision Lenticule Extraction? Available: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/what-is-small-incision-lenticule-extraction Accessed July 8, 2024.
2 Zeiss Surpasses 8 Million Eyes Treated with SMILE Worldwide.” Eyewire News. August 23, 2023. Eyewire News. Available: https://eyewire.news/news/zeiss-surpasses-8-million-eyes-treated-with-smile-worldwide?c4src=article:infinite-scroll. Accessed July 8, 2024.
3 Moshirfar M, Bruner CD, Skanchy DF, Shah T. Hyperopic small-incision lenticule extraction. Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2019 Jul;30(4):229-235. doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000000580. PMID: 31033739. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31033739/. Accessed July 8, 2024.
4 Moshirfar M, Bruner CD, Skanchy DF, Shah T. Hyperopic small-incision lenticule extraction. Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2019 Jul;30(4):229-235. doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000000580. PMID: 31033739. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31033739/. Accessed July 8, 2024.
5 American Academy of Ophthalmology. What Is Small Incision Lenticule Extraction? Available: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/what-is-small-incision-lenticule-extraction Accessed July 8, 2024.
Dr. Jay Rudd has authored or reviewed and approved this content.
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