Biomechanical Properties of Human Cornea Tested by Two-Dimensional Extensiometry Ex Vivo in Fellow Eyes: Femtosecond Laser –Assisted LASIK Versus SMILE

In 2008 Sekundo et al. introduced the minimally invasive small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE), which was published in 2011.1 Unlike in femtosecond laser –assisted LASIK (FS-LASIK), SMILE does not require a flap and the lenticule is extracted via a 2- to 3-mm incision, leaving the remaining anterior stroma and Bowman's layer untouched. SMILE offers potential advantages such as more postoperative comfort and patient satisfaction,2 less postoperative discomfort due to faster corneal healing,3,4 less neurotrophic keratopathy, and a presumed better preservation of biomechanical stability.4–6

Source: Journal of Refractive Surgery - June 11, 2018 Category: Opthalmology Authors: Bogdan Spiru, MD Source Type: research