ABSTRACT
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) has shown great promise in the treatment of myopia; however, the literature is less extensive in its hyperopic counterpart. The purpose of this review is to detail the recent advancements and outcomes of SMILE in the treatment of hyperopic eye disease. RECENT FINDINGS: SMILE has demonstrated similar visual outcomes, regression rates, centration ability, safety profiles, and wound healing as hyperopic laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Lenticule preservation and implantation show further promise in the correction of higher degrees of hyperopia. SUMMARY: Based on the current literature, SMILE represents a viable surgical alternative to LASIK in the correction of hyperopia. Lenticule intrastromal keratoplasty and small-incision lenticule intrastromal keratoplasty may be able to correct severe hyperopia in patients who would not otherwise be candidates for refractive surgery.
