Corneal Parameter Analysis Following SMILE-Derived Doughnut Refractive Lenticule Transplantation

Accurate and reproducible imaging plays a central role in understanding the structural, refractive, and biomechanical changes that occur following DRLT. As an anterior to mid-stromal additive procedure designed to normalize corneal geometry, DRLT induces a characteristic pattern of topographic and tomographic remodeling that can be precisely monitored using Scheimpflug-based imaging, particularly the Pentacam HR system. Pentacam’s multiparameter evaluation including anterior and posterior elevation, pachymetry maps, keratometry, Belin/Ambrosio indices, and Q value profiling provides a comprehensive longitudinal assessment of the cornea’s response to the implanted doughnut lenticule.