During the minimally invasive SMILE pro technique, a tiny incision is made to remove a small piece of tissue, reshaping the cornea in the process.
Introduced in 2007, SMILE pro is the most recent and sophisticated technology available to laser eye surgeons. Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) can be particularly beneficial for patients who suffer from dry eye, which can be exacerbated by other refractive surgery techniques.
Rather than removing the epithelial layer or creating a flap of tissue, this technique uses a tiny keyhole incision to remove a small piece of tissue, called a lenticule. Doing so effectively reshapes the cornea and corrects the vision in a minimally invasive way with fewer steps than other procedures.
This is a gentle and painless procedure, which takes just 10-20 seconds. Recovery is very quick. Patients are generally able to drive and carry out most activities without glasses 24 – 36 hours after their surgery.
Your specialist will confirm the most suitable laser correction procedure after your free laser eye assessment. In general, laser eye surgery is suitable for most people over 20 years of age who have had a stable prescription (glasses or contact lenses) for the last two years.
LASIK creates a thin corneal flap, allowing precise laser correction within seconds and quick visual results.
ASLA treats the corneal surface directly and is ideal for patients with thinner corneas or specific occupational needs. Advanced Surface Laser Ablation is the updated term for PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
Dr John Rawstron
MB ChB, MPH, GDipM (Refract Surg), FRANZCO
Dr Rawstron brings international surgery qualifications and experience to the refractive team. In addition to LASIK, SMILE pro, PRK and lens surgery procedures, he specialises in corneal transplants and cataract surgery as part of Southern Eye Specialist’s broader ophthalmology services.
Dr Elizabeth Conner
MBChB, BMedSci, FRANZCO
Liz Conner is an experienced cornea, cataract and refractive surgeon who joined Southern Eye Specialists Laser in 2022 after completing a fellowship in Pittsburgh. She specialises in a comprehensive range of laser correction procedures, including LASIK, SMILE pro, and PRK. Liz also offers cataract surgery with premium refractive lens options, treatments for keratoconus, and is fellowship trained in paediatric eye problems.
Address:
128 Kilmore Street, Christchurch 8013
