Dung had her myopia corrected using the Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE Pro) method. Dr. Dinh Trung Nghia, deputy director of the High-Tech Eye Center at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, used a laser to create a thin lenticule of tissue corresponding to the refractive error within the cornea, then extracted it through a small incision. Two days after the procedure, Dung's vision was restored to 20/12 in her left eye and 20/15 in her right eye.
 |
Dr. Nghia performs the myopia surgery on Dung. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital |
Dr. Nghia performs the myopia surgery on Dung. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital
Dr. Nghia explained that SMILE Pro is currently an advanced refractive surgery technique with the advantage of minimizing risks and complications during and after the procedure.
Immediately following surgery, patients may experience mild irritation, slight blurring, and increased sensitivity to light. These are normal symptoms that typically subside within a few hours or a day. After 24-48 hours, vision significantly improves, becoming clearer and sharper. Patients can resume normal activities and light exercise without needing bed rest. However, they should avoid strenuous eye activity for about three days post-op, if possible. During this period, they can use phones and computers but should prioritize resting their eyes as much as possible.
 |
Dung undergoes a post-operative eye exam. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital |
Dung undergoes a post-operative eye exam. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital
Dr. Nghia noted that while recurrence of myopia after SMILE Pro is possible, the rate is very low. The main causes include high pre-operative myopia, surgery before the myopia stabilizes, and biological changes in the cornea. Factors such as extensive screen time and reading in low light or at a very close distance can accelerate myopia progression even after surgery. To minimize the risk, individuals should have surgery when their myopia has stabilized, maintain good eye habits, and undergo regular eye checkups.
Bach Duong
*The patient's name has been changed.
| Readers can submit questions about eye diseases here for doctors to answer. |
