Small Incision Lenticule Extraction for Hyperopia: 3-Month Refractive and Visual Outcomes.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Corneal Surgery

Background:

• Hyperopia correction remains a significant challenge in refractive surgery.
• Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) is an advanced laser vision correction technique.
• Evaluating SMILE's efficacy for hyperopia is crucial for expanding its applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the visual and refractive results of SMILE for treating hyperopia.
• To determine the safety and effectiveness of SMILE in a hyperopic population.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study utilizing the VisuMax femtosecond laser for vertex-centered hyperopic SMILE.
• Inclusion criteria: attempted hyperopic meridian +1.00 to +7.00 D, CDVA ≥ 20/40.
• Analysis of 3-month outcomes including visual acuity, refractive error, and contrast sensitivity.

Main Results:

• 82 of 93 treated eyes (88%) had available 3-month data.
• For emmetropia-targeted eyes, 89% achieved uncorrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better.
• Spherical equivalent refraction was within ±1.00 D of target in 76% of eyes; contrast sensitivity remained stable.

Conclusions:

• SMILE demonstrates promising refractive and visual outcomes for hyperopia correction.
• The procedure is effective even for high degrees of hyperopia.
• Potential undercorrection may be linked to latent hyperopia in younger patients.