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EYE LASER

Lenticule extraction

Minimally invasive laser procedure to correct short-sightedness and corneal astigmatism.

During lenticule extraction, a femtosecond laser creates a tiny piece of lens tissue (a lenticule) inside the cornea and it is removed through a small opening – entirely without a flap.

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Schematische Darstellung einer SMILE-Laserbehandlung am Auge
Particularly gentle
Corneal tissue is preserved
Fast recovery
Established procedure

Who is it suitable for?

  • Short-sightedness (up to approx. -10 D)
  • Stable visual acuity for at least 1 year
  • 18 years or older
  • Active people and athletes
  • Often particularly suitable for dry eyes

Procedure steps

  1. 1

    Forming the lenticule

    The femtosecond laser forms a thin lenticule inside the cornea – precisely and painlessly.

  2. 2

    Small access opening

    A tiny incision (approx. 2–4 mm) opens access to the cornea – without a flap.

  3. 3

    Removing the lenticule

    The lenticule is removed through the small opening. The cornea adapts – for clear vision.

Healing & recovery

The first few days may involve a foreign-body sensation, light sensitivity and watery eyes. Vision usually improves quickly and stabilises within a few days.

Individual suitability

As with any medical procedure, lenticule extraction involves possible risks and side effects. Whether the procedure is suitable for you is assessed individually after a thorough ophthalmological examination.

Frequently asked questions

Does the treatment hurt?

The eyes are numbed with drops before the treatment. You usually feel no pain during the procedure.

How long does the procedure take?

The actual treatment usually takes only a few minutes per eye.

Is the method safe?

Lenticule extraction is an established procedure. Whether it is suitable for you is determined in a thorough preliminary examination.

Who is lenticule extraction not suitable for?

In the case of certain corneal or eye conditions, or long-sightedness, lenticule extraction may not be the appropriate method.

When can I return to work?

Many people can return to work after a few days. Your clinic will give you a personal recommendation.

How permanent is the result?

Results are generally stable long term. Natural changes to the eye can still occur.

The healing process and treatment outcome can vary from person to person. Final suitability for Lenticule Extraction can only be assessed after a thorough ophthalmological pre-examination.

ⓘ This information does not replace a medical examination. Your eye doctor will determine which treatment is medically suitable for you.