The Latest Advancement in Laser Vision Correction: Something to SMILE About

SIOUX FALLS, S.D., March 8, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Vance Thompson Vision, a refractive surgery and research facility specializing in laser vision correction, is proud to introduce ReLEx SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) by Zeiss. The SMILE procedure was recently approved by the FDA and is a form of laser vision correction that gives patients the newest technology with a gentle, minimally invasive vision correction. ReLEx SMILE can be a vision solution for patients with myopia (nearsightedness).

As the third generation in laser vision correction, ReLEx SMILE builds on the benefits of LASIK, laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. Vance Thompson Vision was involved in the clinical trial process for SMILE, and worked towards its FDA approval in 2017. Patients in those clinical trials have had continued success with SMILE.

Dr. Vance Thompson, an ophthalmologist at Vance Thompson Vision in Sioux Falls, S.D., assisted with the clinical trials for the SMILE procedure. The procedure will complement LASIK and PRK as another option for treating nearsightedness for some patients age 22 or older.

"Our research and results from the clinical trials demonstrate that this procedure provides excellent visual outcomes for patients," Dr. Thompson says. "We are excited to bring this technology to the area."

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, nearsightedness affects more than 40% of the US population, a number that has increased from 25% in 1970. "The number of people affected by nearsightedness is increasing," says Dr. John Berdahl, a surgeon at Vance Thompson Vision. "The addition of SMILE gives us more power to help more patients see more clearly. I'm honored to be a part of so many new procedures that fit patients' vision and lifestyle."

A common refractive procedure and the predecessor to SMILE, LASIK uses a laser to reshape a person's cornea. LASIK can provide clearer vision for patients with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

SMILE uses the principles of LASIK in a minimally invasive procedure, so the surgeon is able to perform the correction without creating a flap. During the SMILE procedure, the surgeon uses a femtosecond laser to make a small incision in the cornea. The incision needed for SMILE is up to 80 percent smaller than the incision needed for LASIK, and the procedure has a lower occurrence of dry eye and other complications after surgery.

SMILE can help you achieve clear vision with the assurance that you are receiving the world's highest technology in laser vision correction. To determine your candidacy for SMILE, or any laser vision correction procedure, a patient will need to be evaluated by an ophthalmologist specializing in refractive surgery. For more information, visit www.vancethompsonvision.com.

About Vance Thompson Vision
Vance Thompson Vision, Sioux Falls, SD and Fargo, ND, is a world-class refractive surgery center and research institute. Vance Thompson Vision provides and participates in developing the world's most exceptional technologies to improve outcomes in surgical care; all while creating a patient experience that is second to none. With more than 100,000 procedures, more than 80 FDA monitored clinical trials, and having traveled the world to advance the learning of providers everywhere, Vance Thompson Vision is the standard in quality and innovation. For more information on the international reputation of the doctors that lead studies such as this one visit the biographies of Dr. Vance Thompson, Dr. Alison Tendler, Dr. John Berdahl, Dr. Michael Greenwood, Dr. Doug Wallin, Dr. Keith Rasmussen, Dr. Justin Schweitzer, Dr. Jason Schmit, and Dr. Mitch Ibach.

CONTACT: Vance Thompson Vision, 1-605-361-3937

SOURCE Vance Thompson Vision

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