Treatments
SMILE / CLEAR
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), is a form of ‘keyhole’ laser eye surgery that helps to correct short-sightedness and astigmatism.
Instead of creating a flap or reshaping the surface, the laser cuts a thin lenticule underneath within the cornea that is then removed by the surgeon.
CLEAR (corneal lenticule extraction for advanced refractive correction) is an advanced version of the SMILE procedure which addresses short-sightedness and astigmatism, as well as long-sightedness. It is done using the Ziemer Z8 femtosecond laser, the worlds fastest, lowest energy femtosecond laser. Similar to SMILE, this procedure creates a ‘lenticule’, a disc-shaped piece of tissue within the cornea, that is extracted by the surgeon through two small (2mm) incisions. By extracting this piece of tissue we can permanently improve the curvature of the cornea, and restore clarity of vision.
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At a glance
Treatment Time
10-15 minutes per eye
Treatment Anaesthesia
Topical anaesthetic drops
Treatment Downtime
24-48 hours
Treatment Frequency
Permanent
Treatment Results
Clearer vision
Treatment
Frequently asked questions
Who is suitable for this treatment?
Patients for SMILE / CLEAR must be over 18 years of age. This procedure can be used to correct mild – moderate refractive errors (such as long / short-sightedness and astigmatism), and your prescription should have stayed the same for around 2 years.
Is this treatment safe?
SMILE / CLEAR is a minimally invasive, safe and effective procedure.As with any form of refractive surgery there is a small potential risk of visual problems, under / over correction, infection and further surgery. This will be discussed in detail at your clinic appointment.
Will it hurt?
It is a painless procedure. Topical anaesthetic drops are used to numb the eye / cornea.
When can I expect the final result?
Most patients find their vision improves immediately after the procedure, however, you can expect intermittent blurring to occur. Typically, the results will improve gradually over 24-48 hours but may continue to improve over the following few weeks.
Are there any side effects or risks?
Glares and halos are possible side effects which will usually have disappeared within 24-48 hours. Potential risks, side effects and complications will be discussed in detail at your clinic appointment.
Testimonials
What our patients say...
Shining light.I have just had my second cataract removed, by Mr Nick Maycock. Having the new lenses has made an enormous difference already! Nick made me feel very comfortable and answered all my questions. The procedure was quick and painless. And at the end he assured me, all had gone well. In light of my experience, I would have no hesitation in recommending Nick Maycock to anyone who is in need of eye Surgery.
Mrs JC
Both my eyes (cataracts) were operated on by Mr. Maycock, who made me and my wife very comfortable at my consultation. He was very reassuring and explained the procedure extremely well. All throughout the procedure Mr. Maycock was explaining the process – and the result is amazing. Furthermore, as a retired Film/TV Cameraman my expectations were very high. Needless to say the result of the op has surpassed all expectations- and my eyesight is now better than ever. Mr. Maycock’s interaction is very professional and reassuring. I found the whole experience very rewarding.
Mr GM
Had cataract surgery on both eyes, in April and June of 2023. The results were/are amazing. The colour spectrum changed and the world is a brighter and more colourful place. My night vision improved dramatically and 30 years of wearing glasses is in the past. Excellent service and a painless procedure, efficiently carried out by Mr Maycock and the other staff at the centre. Definitely a 5 star service from all involved and highly recommended. My sincere thanks.
Mr TN
It is now two days after my second cataract procedure and I am truly amazed to see clearly again. After the first operation, which was carried out carefully and efficiently, I was delighted, however, after the second operation, I feel that a lifetime of wearing glasses is likely to become a distant memory. I have to admit to being apprehensive about the procedure. Mr Maycock understood that taking time to summarise the procedure and to answer questions helped dispel my concerns. I am in awe of his technical skills and very grateful to him for his interpersonal skills. Excellent in every way.
Mr DC
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