Laser eye surgery with
ReLex SMILE
The ReLex (Refractive Lenticule Extraction) SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) from Carl Zeiss is a relatively new treatment method in refractive surgery for the correction of nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Correcting farsightedness is not currently possible with ReLex SMILE. In contrast to Femto-LASIK, no corneal flap is created, and the top layer of the cornea is not removed as with PRK/ LASEK. Instead, a small corneal disc is cut with a laser and removed through a 2-3 mm incision. For this reason, the ReLex SMILE method is particularly gentle.
ReLex SMILE
The Procedure
Based on our own convictions, we do not offer ReLex SMILE eye laser surgery at LASERMED. Nevertheless, we would like to inform you how the surgery is carried out. We would also be happy to offer you more details personally in a free, consultation and give you a second opinion on ReLex SMILE from Carl Zeiss.
Laser Eye Surgery
- Before the Zeiss laser is used, your eyes are anaesthetized with eye drops so that the surgery is completely painless.
- Subsequently, a small corneal disk is cut with the Zeiss femto laser just below the uppermost corneal layer.
- It is then removed through a small incision of 2 to 3 millimeters.
- The incision closes automatically after the laser surgery.
DISADVANTAGES AND ARGUMENTS AGAINST OF RELEX SMILE
Why does Lasermed not offer ReLex SMILE?
Your health and satisfaction are our top priority at LASERMED. For this reason, we do not use any laser eye procedures where the success rate and methods have not convinced us – or independent scientific studies – 100 percent. With ReLex SMILE (Refractive Lenticule Extraction; Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), your well-being also takes precedence over our commercial interests.
Below are arguments and risks that are in agreeance with Lasermed against the ReLex SMILE procedure from Zeiss:
- No wavefront-guided correction1
- Longer visual recovery than LASIK 2,3,4
- Complications can be very difficult or even impossible to resolve.
- In purely physical terms, the precision of the femtosecond laser used in ReLex SMILE is worse than that of the excimer laser.
*Sources
1 Kermani, Ophthalmochirurgie 29: 151 – 157, 2017
2 Chiche A et al, J Cataract Refract Surg, 2018
3 Agca A et al, J Ophthalmol., 2014
4 Liu T et al, BMC Ophthalmol, 2019
Questions about ReLex SMILE? Call us and we will discuss them together.
Our team of laser eye experts has 10 years of experience and are happy to advise you by phone. If you need more help or have additional questions, we are ready to find the best solution you.
– Dr. med. Thomas Pahlitzsch
Your Lasermed advantages at a glance
 Personal advice from expertsOur in-person consultations take place at one of our laser eye centers located throughout Berlin. After measuring your refractive values, one of our specialized refractive consultants will advise you individually on your way to enjoying life without glasses. |  Holistic ophthalmologyLasermed is not simply a place to get your eyes lasered. We offer our clients the entire spectrum of holistic ophthalmology. We draw on decades of experience and know-how in laser eye surgery to achieve this in correcting any regular visual disorder. |
 Free of charge and without obligationLaser eye surgery is a unique decision for each person individually. We understand how important it is to feel safe and be well-informed. For this reason, we would be happy to give you the in-depth advice you need and answer your individual questions free of charge and without obligation. |  Daytime availabilityWould you like to be advised personally? You can always reach us from Mo – Fr | 8:00–18:00. Schedule your consultation appointment today by simply calling us at 030 555 753 111 or via via online booking. |
TYPES OF SURGERIES
Variations and Comparisons
(Trans-)PRK
Femto-LASIK
contact lens ICL
Multifocal lens
Lasermed FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the ReLex SMILE surgery?
ReLex SMILE is a new laser eye treatment from Zeiss for the correction of nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. In contrast to PRK/LASEK and Femto-LASIK, a small corneal lamella is formed and removed to correct a visual problem. ReLex SMILE stands for: “Refractive Lenticule Extraction; Small Incision Lenticule Extraction”, in other words, the refractive removal of a lenticule (corneal lamella) through a small opening.
How does ReLex SMILE work?
The ReLex SMILE is a treatment method for laser eye surgery. The Zeiss femto laser forms a small lenticule (a corneal lamella) below the uppermost corneal layer. The lenticule is then removed through a small incision of 2 to 3 millimeters. The removed lenticule shapes the eye surface so that the incoming light is refracted correctly and you can see sharply again. The incision closes automatically after the laser eye surgery. Laser treatment with ReLex SMILE is performed with anesthesia eye drops, so that the surgery is completely painless.
How long has the ReLex SMILE procedure been available?
The ReLex SMILE procedure was developed by two ophthalmologists in cooperation with the company Carl Zeiss AG. It has been officially approved in Germany since 2008 and has been used since 2011. LASIK, on the other hand, has been used since 1990, Femto-LASIK since 2004 and PRK since 1987.
How much does ReLex SMILE surgery cost?
Laser eye surgery with the ReLex SMILE method can cost between 1,600 and 3,000 euros per eye, depending on the provider. At LASERMED, we do not offer the method because of our beliefs and philosophy. Therefore, we are unfortunately unable to provide you with a more precise offer. We would be happy to give you with a second opinion on ReLex SMILE.
When can you see sharply again after a ReLex SMILE surgery?
After laser eye surgery with ReLex SMILE, you can usually see relatively clear the day after the procedure. Full visual acuity is usually achieved within three days.
Where can I get a ReLex SMILE surgery?
Due to our beliefs and philosophy, we do not currently offer the ReLex SMILE procedure at Lasermed as we are not convinced of the success rate. Currently, ReLex SMILE is offered at individual eye clinics and laser clinic chains. If you are interested, we will be happy to give you a second opinion on the ReLex SMILE procedure in a personal, free consultation.
What are the disadvantages of the ReLex SMILE process?
The ReLex SMILE procedure is still a relatively new method of eye laser surgery. In contrast to PRK/ LASEK and Femto-LASIK, it has only been used for a few years. Disadvantages and risks of ReLex SMILE from Carl Zeiss include the fact that wavefront-guided correction is not currently possible, and that visual acuity recovery or healing time takes longer than after LASIK surgery. In addition, complications are very difficult or impossible to resolve. Finally, the precision of the Zeiss femto laser is physically worse than that of the excimer laser used in PRK/LASEK and Femto-LASIK.
