Correct Nearsightedness and Astigmatism with a New Laser Vision Correction Procedure Never Before Available in Western New York
by Annette Pinder
Fichte, Endl & Elmer Eyecare (Fichte) is the first ophthalmology practice located in Western New York to be able to offer a minimally invasive laser vision correction procedure that corrects both nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. More than six million people worldwide have successfully undergone the FDA-approved procedure, known as ZEISS SMILE® (SMILE).
The ZEISS SMILE procedure is performed using a highly specialized VisuMax® femtosecond laser which creates a thin, contact-lens-shaped layer just beneath the surface of the eye. Thereafter, a small opening is created through which the layer is removed to correct a patient’s vision.
In offering the newest, most advanced refractive laser correction technology in the region, Fichte’s marketing director Kathy Otto, says, “We were the very first in the region to perform LASIK and laser cataract surgery, so it makes sense that we would also be the first to offer the ZEISS SMILE procedure.”
“What is even more exciting, is that patients who undergo the SMILE procedure can resume all of their normal activities more quickly than with other treatments,” said Michael Endl, M.D. “ZEISS SMILE is less invasive than other procedures because it is performed without having to create a corneal flap. As a result, patients can typically wear makeup, go to the gym, and even return to swimming quicker than with LASIK,” says Endl.
Patients who undergo the ZEISS SMILE procedure should be 18 years old or older, and have a stable glasses prescription. Learn more about ZEISS SMILE correction available at Fichte, Endl & Elmer Eyecare by calling 800-309-2020 or visiting www.fichte.com.
