SMILE Pro – what is it?

SMILE Pro is one of the most modern and safest laser eye procedures for vision correction. It is based on the improved ReLEx SMILE technology developed by the German company ZEISS.

The name SMILE Pro stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction – removing a thin “lens” of tissue through a very small incision. This technique allows quick and precise correction of myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. In some clinics, it is also used to correct hyperopia (farsightedness), when medically indicated and when the clinic has the necessary equipment.

How does the procedure work?

• The VisuMax 800 laser creates a thin disc of tissue (a lenticule) inside the cornea.

• The surgeon then gently removes this lenticule through a tiny incision of only 2–4 mm.

• The top layer of the cornea is not fully cut or lifted, as it is in some other laser procedures.

The main advantage is that the active laser time is only about 8–10 seconds per eye, and the whole procedure takes just a few minutes.

The eye is numbed with local anaesthetic drops, so the operation is usually comfortable and generally not painful.

Why is SMILE Pro considered an advanced method?

Minimal intervention
The natural structure of the cornea is better preserved, and no corneal “flap” is created. This helps reduce the risk of certain postoperative complications.

Fast recovery
For many patients, vision becomes noticeably clearer as soon as the next day after surgery, and they can gradually return to their normal activities.

Lower risk of dry eye and other side effects
Because the surface layers of the cornea are affected less, the risk of dry eyes and some other side effects may be lower compared to certain other laser techniques.

Precision and stable results
The high-precision laser reduces the impact on surrounding tissues and helps achieve a stable result – vision remains clear and consistent in the long term.

Who is SMILE Pro suitable for?

This technology is especially relevant for:

• people over 18 years old with stable prescriptions;

• those who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses;

• active people and athletes, for whom it is important that their eyes tolerate physical activity better;

• patients with medium to high myopia and astigmatism (within medically accepted limits).

Before surgery, a detailed eye examination with an ophthalmologist is mandatory to make sure that this method is suitable for you.

Possible limitations and risks

Like any surgical procedure, SMILE Pro has its limitations and possible side effects:

• temporary dry eyes or light sensitivity in the first days or weeks;

• in rare cases, the need for an additional correction;

• the method is not used in some eye conditions (for example, keratoconus, active inflammatory diseases, etc.).

That is why a consultation with an experienced doctor and a full eye examination are essential before making a decision.

What to choose: glasses, contact lenses, PRK, LASIK or SMILE Pro?

Each method of vision correction has its own advantages:

• Glasses and contact lenses – no surgery, but they require constant wearing and care.

• PRK – a method often used when the cornea is thinner, but the recovery period is usually longer.

• LASIK – a well-studied laser technique with creation of a corneal flap and a fast visual effect.

• SMILE Pro – a modern, minimally invasive procedure, convenient for active people who are tired of the constant discomfort of glasses and contact lenses.

The final choice is made together with your doctor after a complete examination.

Summary

SMILE Pro is a fast, modern and gentle method of laser vision correction. It is especially suitable for active people who want to reduce or even stop their constant dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

This method combines minimal intervention in the cornea, high precision and, in most cases, a quick recovery. That is why SMILE Pro is considered one of the most advanced technologies in ophthalmology today.