- Spokane: 509.928.8040
- Coeur d’Alene: 208.664.9888
See Clearer with
SMILE
The new alternative to LASIK
Are you a candidate for SMILE? Take our self-test to find out!
Take the self-testAbout SMILE
SMILE is the latest advancement in laser vision correction of myopia (nearsightedness) for patients with or without astigmatism, providing excellent results in a minimally invasive procedure, taking about 30 seconds per eye. In this procedure, the femtosecond laser is used to create a lenticule – a thin, contact lens-shaped layer just beneath the surface of the eye. Then a small opening is created, through which that layer is removed, correcting your vision.
Take the self-testSMILE Benefits
Minimally Invasive
SMILE laser vision correction is more gentle and comfortable than comparable procedures. Your surgeon will only need to make a small incision about 4–6mm long.
Quick & Simple
SMILE is a quick and simple procedure. From start to finish, the whole procedure will only take about 15–20 minutes.
Short Recovery Time
SMILE patients experience a shorter recovery time than those who get LASIK. Most people return to their normal activities the next day.
Patient Comfort
SMILE patients typically experience less discomfort and dry eye symptoms during and after the procedure than with LASIK.
Freedom from Lenses
SMILE laser vision correction is designed to eliminate the need for glasses or contacts.
How SMILE Is Different From LASIK
What makes SMILE different from LASIK? In LASIK surgery, a flap is created on your cornea to gain access to the inner portion of the cornea. During the SMILE procedure, a smaller, less invasive incision is created instead. SMILE is known as a “no flap” surgery because of this small incision, and the result is a less invasive, safe, and quicker procedure with a shorter recovery time compared to LASIK procedures. SMILE patients also typically experience less dry eye symptoms after the procedure compared with LASIK.
LASIK Opening ~ 20mm
SMILE Opening ~ 4-6mm
SMILE Self-Test
SMILE, the latest laser vision correction procedure.
Are you a candidate? Take the SMILE Self-Test.
About Empire Eye Physicians
Our goal is to provide our patients with the best possible medical care in an environment of comfort and compassion. We offer a state-of-the art medical center with a warm friendly staff working together to care for our patients. We understand how important visual performance and eye health are for a person’s quality of life, and we strive for excellence in providing complete eye care needs. Call Mountain View Refractive Center at 907-328-2920 ext 9 to make an appointment today.
Empire Eye Physicians
Leaders of the SMILE procedure in the Inland Northwest
Bruce J. Ballon, MD
Monica Chan, OD
Natalia V. Bajenova, MD
Bruce E. Wietharn, MD
Patrica Oh, OD
