Corneal remodeling and enhancement after small incision lenticule extraction

Small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) is a new option for corneal refractive surgery, which has developed quickly in recent years.Although modern corneal refractive surgery has reached a high success rate, enhancement may be required after refractive surgery.Reasons for enhancement include initial overcorrection or undercor rection and refractive regression, corneal epithelium and stromal remodeling are two main factors contributing to refractive regression.The corneal remodeling process and the risk factors of enhancement after SMILE, and the potential enhancement strategies and their effects, and wound healing process and corneal biomechanics after enhancement are important issues in clinic.This article reviewed relevant literatures and focused on the above issues. Key words: Refractive surgery procedures; Small incision lenticule extraction; Corneal remodeling; Risk factor; Enhancement