LASIK or SMILE in Pterygium Patients: Which Surgery is Best?
LASIK or SMILE in Pterygium Patients: Which Surgery is Best?
Blog Article
Choosing between LASIK and SMILE is simple if you are nearsighted or having astigmatism or both.
SMILE Laser eye surgery is safer because.
SMILE procedure does not cut the area of the pterygium.
It prevents bleeding.
SMILE Laser Vision Correction avoids path for the Pterygium to grow underneath the flap.
It preserves the corneal nerves. Better tear film prevents growth of Pterygium
Lasik cuts the cornea, the nerves and even the Pterygium:
Lets go into more details.
At Khanna Vision Institute, we use advanced OCT diagnostics to evaluate corneal health. We always recommend the safest, most effective procedure for each patient.
Are you considering vision correction surgery but also have Pterygium? Pterygium is a condition involving benign callus like growth on the eye’s conjunctiva. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) are two advanced options. Both procedures offer transformative results for vision enhancement. For individuals with pterygium selecting the right procedure requires a nuanced understanding of each method. and how pterygium impacts the cornea. At Khanna Vision Institute, we’re committed to helping patients navigate these choices.
Understanding Pterygium and Its Impact on Vision
Pterygium is commonly known as “surfer’s eye”. It manifests as a pinkish, wedge-shaped tissue growth that extends from the conjunctiva onto the cornea. While often caused by prolonged exposure to UV rays, wind, and dust, it can also result from genetic predisposition. Pterygium can distort the cornea, induce astigmatism, and create visual discomfort.
Because pterygium alters corneal shape and stability, these factors significantly influence the suitability of vision correction surgeries. Let’s explore the key aspects of LASIK and SMILE and how they align with the needs of pterygium patients.
What is LASIK?
LASIK is a widely recognized laser vision correction procedure. It reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The process involves:
Creating a thin corneal flap using a femtosecond laser or microkeratome.
Reshaping the underlying corneal tissue with an excimer laser to improve light refraction.
Replacing the flap to heal naturally without stitches.
Dr.Khanna has performed thousands of Lasik Eye Surgery procedures.
What is SMILE?
SMILE is a minimally invasive procedure designed to address refractive errors. FDA has approved treatment for myopia and mild astigmatism. SMILE does not require creating a corneal flap. The process involves:
Using Visumax femtosecond laser to create a small lenticule (a disc-shaped piece of corneal tissue) within the cornea.
Removing the lenticule through a small incision, reshaping the cornea for improved vision.
SMILE offers faster healing times and reduces the risk of flap-related complications. Dr.Khanna is a Cornea trained SMILE Certified Experienced here Eye Surgeon.
Challenges for Pterygium Patients
Corneal Surface Irregularities:
Pterygium alters the corneal shape and may cause irregular astigmatism. LASIK requires a smooth conjunctival and corneal surface for flap creation. Flap creation therefore may be challenging if the pterygium significantly distorts the cornea.
Tissue Integrity:
SMILE’s minimal impact on corneal tissue makes it a safer choice for patients with Pterygium or surfers eye.
UV Exposure History:
Pterygium is often linked to UV exposure. This history may predispose patients to certain post-surgical complications. Both LASIK and SMILE require careful consideration of this factor.
LASIK for Pterygium Patients
LASIK can be effective for pterygium patients, especially if the pterygium is mild and the corneal distortion is minimal. Key considerations include:
Pre-Surgical Pterygium Removal:
In cases where the pterygium is significant, surgical removal may be necessary before LASIK. This allows the cornea to stabilize, ensuring better outcomes.
Flap-Related Risks:
The flap creation process in LASIK may exacerbate dryness or irritation in eyes affected by pterygium. Proper hydration and post-operative care are critical.
Pterygium Cut: leads to bleeding. Chance for growth in the interface.
Custom LASIK Technology:
Advanced mapping tools like Wavefront-guided LASIK can enhance precision, making it a viable option for some pterygium patients.
SMILE for Pterygium Patients
SMILE is often preferred for patients with corneal irregularities or a history of pterygium. Benefits include:
No Flap Creation:
The absence of a flap minimizes risks associated with corneal surface instability, which is critical for pterygium-affected eyes.
Enhanced Corneal Stability:
By preserving more of the corneal structure, SMILE supports long-term corneal strength.
Lower Dry Eye Risk:
Pterygium patients often experience dry eyes. SMILE’s minimally invasive approach reduces the likelihood of exacerbating this condition.
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