KLEx stands for Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction, an umbrella term for small‑incision lenticule procedures such as SMILE and CLEAR. A femtosecond laser creates a thin, lens‑shaped disc (a lenticule) inside the cornea; this lenticule is removed through a tiny incision (about 2–3 mm). This reshapes the cornea to correct your glasses prescription, without creating a flap. The benefits are: 

-Tiny incision, therefore less disturbance of corneal nerves and strength, and potentially less dry eye symptoms early 
-Fast recovery: with usually mild discomfort during the first day.
-No flap: Low risk of flap-related complications, best for contact sports, and fewer dry-eye symptoms early on. 

Your surgeon will confirm whether KLEx, LASIK, PRK/TransPRK, or ICL is the best for your eyes. 

The procedure takes about 7-10 minutes per eye and is performed in the laser suite.

1. The surgeons uses numbing drops to numb your eyes. You’ll be comfortably positioned under the laser.
2. Laser step: The femtosecond laser creates the lenticule and a tiny side incision. You’ll see lights and feel gentle pressure, not pain.
3. Lenticule removal: The surgeon removes the lenticule through the small incision, reshaping your cornea.
4. Final check: The corneal surface is smoothed; no stitches are needed.

Right after: Vision is often hazy for several hours. Light sensitivity and mild tearing are common on Day 0.

Before KLEx:

Screening & diagnostics: Detailed measurements (refraction, corneal maps, dryness assessment).

In preparation for KLEx:

-Stop soft lenses at least 3–7 days before. Your doctor will tailor this to your case.
-Tell us about all meds and allergies. Use any prescribed pre‑op drops as directed.
-On the day:

1. Eat normally; avoid alcohol.
2. No eye makeup, lotions, heavy perfumes or aftershave.
3. Wear comfortable clothing; bring sunglasses.
4. Arrange a safe ride home, do not drive on surgery day.
5. If you’re unwell (cold, eye infection, COVID symptoms), inform the clinic before coming.

On the day of the procedure, expect to be in the clinic ~1–2 hours, allowing time for further test and exams, the procedure, then postoperative instructions and eye drops schedule.

Everyone heals differently. Always follow your surgeon's instructions if they differ from this guide. Expect to use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops a few times a day for about 10 days, and lubricants eye drops for the first few weeks and up to a few months. 

First 6–12 hours:

• Blurry vision, tearing, light sensitivity, foreign‑body sensation
• Keep eyes closed/resting as much as possible; use sunglasses; start drops as prescribed

Day 1–2:

• Vision usually improves significantly; many patients can resume light activities
• Dryness and halos at night can occur, use lubricants generously

Days 3–7:

• Continued stabilization; most routine tasks feel comfortable

Weeks 2–4:

• Night vision/contrast typically continue to improve; dryness gradually eases

1–3 months:

• Final refinement for most patients