What to Do If Your SMILE Pro Laser Surgery Goes Wrong?

Q: What to Do If Your SMILE Pro Laser Surgery Goes Wrong?

Hello： Regarding your situation, it is not possible to provide an online diagnosis based solely on text. <br>If you have significant concerns, it is advisable to visit an ophthalmology clinic for an examination, which may give you more peace of mind. <br>The Hualien Hospital of t

What should I do if the SMILE PRO laser for myopia seems to have been misaligned and affected the upper part of my eyeball?

Hello, doctor.
Last week, I underwent Smile Pro laser surgery at a clinic.
My condition is that the corneal thickness in both eyes is approximately 550 micrometers, with myopia of 500 degrees and astigmatism of 200 degrees.
During the laser procedure, I was looking at a green dot, but then the dot disappeared, and my eye seemed to drift away.
After that, I lost track of what was happening and only heard the doctor say that my visual axis had shifted completely, so the procedure couldn't be performed on that eye, and he proceeded to operate on the other eye instead.

After the surgery, the doctor told me that this situation is rare but can occur.
He mentioned that there are bubbles in my eye, which is why he didn't make any incisions (there was no external injury).
He said I now have two options: one is to undergo LASIK in the adjacent room, and the other is to rest and wait for 1 to 3 months to see how the bubbles resolve before deciding whether to continue with the laser treatment.
However, during this waiting period, there may be issues with visual disparity.
It has now been a week since the surgery, and the eye that had the failed procedure is currently in a condition similar to before the laser treatment, except it feels drier.
A week post-operation, I returned for a follow-up examination, and another doctor shone a bright light in my eyes and asked me to look down.
When I inquired about my condition, he only replied that the bubbles have significantly decreased, and we would need to wait a month to see how things progress.
I am really scared and unsure if something might go wrong.
I feel that the information I’ve gathered from ChatGPT has not been very optimistic.
What should I do now?

A-Pang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/13

Dr. Chen Anping reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Regarding your situation, it is not possible to provide an online diagnosis based solely on text.
If you have significant concerns, it is advisable to visit an ophthalmology clinic for an examination, which may give you more peace of mind.
The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2024/07/13

More Info

I'm sorry to hear about your experience with the SMILE Pro laser surgery. It's understandable to feel anxious and uncertain after such a procedure, especially when complications arise. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you can do and what to expect moving forward.

Immediate Steps to Take
1. Follow-Up Appointments: It’s crucial to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist. These visits are essential for monitoring your healing process and assessing any complications. Your doctor will be able to provide you with the most accurate information regarding your specific situation.

2. Communicate Openly: Don’t hesitate to express your concerns and ask questions during your follow-up visits. Understanding your condition and the expected recovery process can help alleviate some of your anxiety. If you feel that your current doctor isn’t providing enough information, consider seeking a second opinion from another qualified ophthalmologist.

3. Rest and Recovery: After any eye surgery, including laser procedures, it’s important to give your eyes time to heal. Follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding rest, avoiding screens, and any prescribed medications, such as anti-inflammatory drops or lubricating eye drops.

Understanding Your Condition
From your description, it seems that you experienced an unexpected complication during the SMILE procedure, where the visual axis shifted, leading to the need for a different approach. The presence of air bubbles in your eye is not uncommon after certain types of laser surgeries, and they typically resolve over time. However, it’s essential to monitor their progress.

1. Air Bubbles: The air bubbles you mentioned can cause temporary visual disturbances and may take some time to dissipate. Your doctor’s suggestion to wait 1-3 months before deciding on further surgery is likely aimed at allowing your eyes to stabilize and heal properly.

2. Dryness: Post-operative dryness is a common issue after laser eye surgeries. Using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help alleviate this symptom. Make sure to discuss this with your doctor, who may recommend specific products.

3. Visual Disturbances: The disparity in vision you mentioned (referred to as "visual disparity") is something to monitor closely. It’s not unusual for patients to experience fluctuations in vision during the healing process, but persistent issues should be addressed with your ophthalmologist.

Long-Term Considerations
1. Surgical Options: If your vision does not improve adequately after the waiting period, your doctor may discuss the possibility of LASIK or other corrective procedures. Each option has its own risks and benefits, and your doctor will help determine the best course of action based on your specific circumstances.

2. Psychological Support: It’s normal to feel anxious or depressed after a surgical complication. Consider speaking with a mental health professional if you find that your anxiety is affecting your daily life. Support groups for individuals who have undergone similar procedures can also be beneficial.

3. Educate Yourself: Understanding the risks and benefits of laser eye surgery can empower you to make informed decisions about your eye health. Research reputable sources and consider discussing your findings with your ophthalmologist.

Conclusion
While your experience with SMILE Pro laser surgery has been challenging, it’s important to remain proactive about your recovery. Keep open lines of communication with your healthcare providers, adhere to their recommendations, and take care of your emotional well-being during this time. Remember that healing can take time, and many patients experience positive outcomes after initial complications. Your vision is important, and with the right care and support, you can work towards achieving the best possible results.

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