Small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) is a newer type of refractive surgery. With this outpatient procedure, a laser is used to create a disc of corneal tissue. The disc is removed to reshape your cornea and improve how light rays are focused in the eye.

SMILE is FDA-approved to treat mild nearsightedness between -1 and -10 diopters and astigmatism of up to 3 diopters.

SMILE is expected to have similar positive results to LASIK without the same frequency of risk for dry eye or corneal flap dislocation.

If you have any questions about your eyes or your vision, speak with your ophthalmologist. He or she is committed to protecting your sight.