KLex/SMILE

KLex – Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction

(Also known as SMILE Laser Vision Correction)

If you’re thinking about vision correction, you’ve probably heard of LASIK. But do you know about another procedure called KLex? It may be just the answer you’re looking for.

What is KLex?

KLex (Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction) has been an FDA approved vision correction procedure since 2016. Another name for this procedure is SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). KLex uses a laser to correct your nearsightedness (myopia) with or without astigmatism by changing the shape of your eye’s cornea. This allows light rays entering the eyes to correctly focus onto your retina. It is a flapless laser vision correction that will eliminate the need for glasses and contacts.

What happens during the KLex procedure?

Prior to your KLex procedure, you will receive numbing eye drops to ensure you will not feel any pain. An eyelid holder, called a speculum, is used to keep your eyelids from blinking along with light suction to prevent your eye from moving.

Your surgeon at Frantz EyeCare will use the highly precise, computer-guided, VisuMax femtosecond laser. Based on your prescription, this laser will first sculpt a predetermined disc of tissue, called an lenticule, then make a tiny incision less than 4mm.

The surgeon will then skillfully remove this lenticule through the incision, resulting in the flattening of your cornea. This corrects your nearsightedness and/or astigmatism within a matter of 10 to 15 minutes. Visual improvement is seen upon leaving the laser suite. Further improvement is seen over the next 2 days as your vision becomes sharper and clearer.

How is KLex different from LASIK?

LASIK uses an incision 5x larger than KLex to create a flap, which the surgeon will lift and use an Eximer laser to reshape the cornea. The end goal is the same as KLex, which is better vision.

KLex has a significantly smaller incision in the cornea allowing less disruption to corneal nerves. This allows quicker recovery and significantly less dryness afterwards. The procedure is also performed deeper into the corneal tissue, where the structural integrity is greater.

The advanced technology of the femtosecond laser provides greater precision. Treatments can be planned to a hundredth of a diopter, the excimer laser used in LASIK only treats in increments of a quarter. This provides more precise outcomes and ultimately less need for future “touch-ups.”

However, not all prescriptions will be candidates for KLex. KLex is approved to treat certain degrees of nearsightedness and astigmatism. Farsighted patients and patients with too much astigmatism would have to be treated by LASIK or other refractive procedures offered by Frantz Eye Care Surgeons.

Who is a Good Candidate for KLex?

To undergo KLex, you must be a qualified candidate for the procedure. Good candidates for KLex include:

Patients who are nearsighted with prescriptions between -1.00 and -10.00 diopters of myopia
Patients who have astigmatism between -0.75 and -3.00 diopters of astigmatism
If you are at least 22 years old (19-21 year-olds can also benefit from KLex, but is considered off label)
Your eye prescription hasn’t changed in at least the last year
Eyes and cornea are both in good health

KLex eye surgery is a great LASIK alternative for people with active lifestyles or jobs. If you are more active, not having to worry about a corneal flap that can move out of place or get wrinkled or torn is a safer option!

Even if you seem to check all the boxes, the only way to know if you are a KLex candidate is to have a consultation. Your eye care professional will be the one that determines if KLex is right for you.

At Frantz EyeCare, we will conduct a comprehensive diagnostic examination which will match you with your best vision correction option.

What is the Recovery After KLex Like?

Recovery after having KLex is incredibly fast. Here’s what your recovery timeline might look like:

Someone needs to drive you home right after the procedure. Take this time to rest your eyes and relax.

Within one to two days, you should be ready to use laptops and computers. Be sure to take regular screen breaks to reduce eye fatigue and dry eyes. You can also go back to low-impact, routine activities. You can usually drive the next day; however, Frantz EyeCare will give you detailed driving-related advice to ensure your safety.

After one week, you can resume high-impact activities, swimming, and contact sports after your eye doctor clears you. While not the norm, your vision may stay blurry a little longer as your cornea continues to heal in some circumstances. The best thing to do during this time is to keep your eyes rested and avoid eye strain.

Your eye surgeon at Frantz EyeCare will also prescribe medication and eye drops. Instructions should be precisely followed to ensure a full recovery.

Many patients experience vision that is 80% better only a few hours after getting KLex. Within the next one to two weeks, most patients notice a 100% improvement in their vision.

If you are ready to wake up in the morning with clear vision, schedule your FREE KLex Screening. Contact Frantz EyeCare TODAY!