
ReLEx SMILE — Thailand’s Pioneer in Small-Incision Vision Correction Since 2010
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Developed from LASIK and FemtoLASIK
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Minimally invasive, bladeless vision correction
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Corrects myopia and astigmatism
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Lower risk of side effects
What Is ReLEx SMILE Laser Vision Correction?
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Small-incision vision correction with a 2–3 mm. incision
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20 - 25 seconds of laser treatment
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Bladeless, all-laser procedure
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Developed from LASIK and FemtoLASIK
ReLEx SMILE Technology
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VISUMAX 500 Femtosecond Laser by ZEISS, Germany
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Small-Incision, Flap-Free Technique
How ReLEx SMILE Works
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Creates a lenticule with the VISUMAX 500
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Creates a small 2–3 mm. incision without a corneal flap
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Removes the lenticule to reshape the cornea
TRSC’s Experience with ReLEx SMILE
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Pioneered ReLEx SMILE in Thailand in 2011, led by Dr. Ekktet Chansue
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Over 25,000 eyes treated with ReLEx SMILE (as of December 2021)
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Appointed a ReLEx Educational Center by Carl Zeiss Meditec, with ongoing knowledge sharing among ophthalmologists from more than 10 countries across Asia and Australia.
Benefits of ReLEx SMILE
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Small incision. No corneal flap
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Fast visual recovery
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High treatment precision with less need for future laser enhancement
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Lower risk of dry eye and night-vision disturbances
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Corrects myopia and astigmatism up to −12.00 D
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Bladeless, all-laser procedure
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Minimal discomfort during treatment
Limitations of ReLEx SMILE
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ReLEx SMILE is not currently suitable for correcting hyperopia (farsightedness) and presbyopia
Chansue ReLEx Dissector — An Innovation Developed at TRSC
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Developed by Dr. Ekktet Chansue to facilitate lenticule removal through a small incision — one of the key surgical challenges in the early days of ReLEx SMILE.
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The Chansue ReLEx Dissector became a recognized surgical instrument used by ReLEx SMILE surgeons internationally.
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Dr. Ekktet Chansue also contributed as an author to the medical textbook Small Incision Lenticule Extraction: Principles, Techniques, Complication Management, and Future Concepts.
Who Is a Good Candidate for ReLEx SMILE at TRSC?
You may be a suitable candidate if you:
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Are 18 years or older with a stable vision prescription for at least 1 year
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Have healthy corneas and overall eye health
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Have no severe dry eye, keratoconus, retinal disease, or other eye conditions that may affect treatment
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Have no uncontrolled medical or autoimmune conditions that may affect healing, such as SLE, Sjögren’s syndrome, psoriasis, or uncontrolled diabetes
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Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
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Are not currently taking medications for psychiatric conditions
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Have completed a comprehensive eye examination at TRSC and been confirmed as suitable by an ophthalmologist
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Understand the procedure, expected outcomes, and limitations of ReLEx SMILE
For patients under 20: A parent or legal guardian must accompany you on the day of surgery to provide consent. Surgery may be postponed if consent requirements are not met.
How to Prepare for Your ReLEx SMILE Preoperative Eye Examination
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Stop wearing contact lenses before your examination and wear glasses instead:
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Soft contact lenses: At least 3 days
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Hard or semi-hard contact lenses: At least 14 days
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Medication Preparation
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Stop oral isotretinoin (e.g., Roaccutane, Acnotin, Isotret) for at least 1 month before your examination and surgery, as it may cause dryness of the ocular surface and cornea.
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Inform your ophthalmologist about all medications you take including medication for diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, thyroid conditions, and sleep. Regular medications may generally be continued unless otherwise advised.
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Examination Time: Approximately 3.5 Hours
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Your examination will be performed by the ophthalmologist who will perform your surgery. If you prefer a specific TRSC ophthalmologist, please schedule your examination with that doctor.
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What Happens After Your Eye Examination?
Your ophthalmologist will determine one of three possible outcomes:
1. Suitable for ReLEx SMILE
Your eyes are healthy and suitable for treatment. Surgery can be scheduled according to your preferred date and your ophthalmologist's recommendation.
2. Another Treatment May Be More SuitableIf
ReLEx SMILE is not suitable for your eyes or overall health, your ophthalmologist may recommend alternatives such as PRK or ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens).
3. Further Treatment or Evaluation Is Needed
Conditions such as dry eye, contact lens-related inflammation, retinal concerns, or suspected glaucoma may need to be treated or evaluated before ReLEx SMILE can be considered.







