Description: Information about SMILE/CLEAR refractive surgery in Geneva: minimally invasive keyhole technique, indications, procedure, benefits, recovery and limitations. An alternative to LASIK to correct myopia and astigmatism.

What is SMILE/CLEAR?

SMILE/CLEAR (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction / CLEAR) is a next-generation laser vision correction technique. It corrects myopia and astigmatism through a very small corneal incision, without creating a flap as in LASIK.

A femtosecond laser creates a lenticule inside the cornea, which is then removed through a micro-incision. This changes the corneal shape to correct the refractive error.

It is a gentle, minimally invasive procedure that preserves corneal structure.

Which refractive errors can SMILE/CLEAR treat?

SMILE/CLEAR can effectively treat:

• Myopia (low to high, depending on the case),
• Myopic astigmatism.

It is not yet suitable for all hyperopic or presbyopic corrections.

SMILE/CLEAR vs LASIK: what’s the difference?

Compared with LASIK:

• SMILE/CLEAR: no corneal flap, only a 2–3 mm incision, more preservation of the anterior cornea.
• LASIK: creation of a corneal flap, larger cut, extremely fast recovery.

SMILE/CLEAR may offer better biomechanical stability and reduced dry eye symptoms in selected patients.

Who is a good candidate for SMILE/CLEAR?

SMILE/CLEAR may be suitable if you:

• are over 18–20 years old with a stable prescription,
• have myopia with or without astigmatism within the treatment range,
• have a healthy cornea with adequate thickness and regularity,
• do not have keratoconus or progressive corneal disease.

A complete refractive assessment is essential to confirm suitability.

How does the SMILE/CLEAR procedure work?

The procedure is performed:

• on an outpatient basis,
• under local anaesthesia with numbing drops,
• using a femtosecond laser to create an intrastromal lenticule,
• followed by removal of the lenticule through a small incision.

There is no flap and no large corneal cut. The procedure is quick and painless.

Recovery after SMILE/CLEAR

• Functional vision usually within the first days,
• Mild discomfort, foreign-body sensation or temporary dryness,
• Eye drops for several weeks,
• Rapid return to daily activities, with short-term restrictions for swimming, heavy sports and eye makeup.

Vision continues to refine and stabilise over the following weeks.

Benefits of SMILE/CLEAR

• Flapless technique: no corneal flap,
• Micro-incision of only a few millimetres,
• Less disruption of anterior corneal nerves (potentially less dry eye),
• Minimally invasive and suitable for active lifestyles,
• Stable and predictable results for myopia and astigmatism.

Risks and limitations

• As with any eye surgery: small risk of infection, inflammation or residual refractive error,
• Not yet available for all refractive errors (e.g. presbyopia, some hyperopes),
• Occasional need for enhancement with surface laser,
• Possible dry eye or halos at night, usually transient.

All these aspects are discussed in detail during the preoperative visit.

SMILE/CLEAR consultation in Geneva

During a refractive surgery consultation, your ophthalmologist will:

• assess your prescription and corneal parameters (topography, pachymetry),
• explain the differences between LASIK, PRK, Trans-PRK, SMILE/CLEAR and ICL,
• discuss benefits, limitations and risks of SMILE/CLEAR for your case,
• answer any questions about recovery and expected results.

The goal is to determine the safest and most appropriate vision correction technique for you.

Considering SMILE/CLEAR surgery?

If you are myopic, with or without astigmatism, and looking for a minimally invasive flapless procedure, SMILE/CLEAR may be an excellent option.

Do not hesitate to book a complete refractive assessment at our ophthalmology practice in Geneva.

Contact our ophthalmology practice for a personalised opinion on SMILE/CLEAR surgery. Make an appointment at +41 (0) 22 346 26 78 or via our online booking system.