About SMILE Laser
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a modern, flapless, small-incision laser eye treatment method that aims to reduce dependence on glasses and lenses. It is used to correct myopia and the astigmatism that accompanies it.
In this method, a thin disc of tissue (a lenticule) is created inside the cornea with a femtosecond laser and removed through a very small incision of about 2–4 mm. The refractive power of the cornea is thereby changed and vision becomes clearer. Unlike LASIK, no large corneal flap is created; this largely preserves the surface integrity of the cornea.
SMILE is part of the family of laser eye treatments. For a comparison with other methods (LASIK, No-Touch) you can review our Laser Eye Treatments and LASIK Eye Surgery pages.
Who Is SMILE Suitable For?
After a suitability assessment, SMILE may be preferred for the following people:
- Myopia and astigmatism: In people with myopia (and astigmatism) within certain ranges and a stable prescription.
- Those with a dry-eye tendency: In those seeking an advantage for dry eye thanks to its flapless, small-incision nature.
- Active life / sport: In people who do contact sports or are at risk of trauma, for whom flap safety matters.
- Suitable corneal thickness: In candidates with an adequate, regular corneal structure and suitable topography.
- Over 18 with a stable prescription: In people in a suitable age range whose prescription has not changed for at least a year.
Suitability is determined with corneal topography, thickness measurement and a detailed eye examination. Not every eye may be suitable for SMILE.
The SMILE Procedure and Comparison
SMILE is a short procedure performed in a single session:
- Suitability assessment: Corneal topography and thickness, prescription stability and eye health are assessed.
- Creating the lenticule: A thin disc of tissue (the lenticule) is prepared inside the cornea with a femtosecond laser.
- Removal through a small incision: The lenticule is removed through an incision of about 2–4 mm; no large flap is created.
- Difference from LASIK and PRK: In LASIK a corneal flap is created and in PRK a surface treatment is performed; SMILE is flapless and small-incision.
Which laser method is suitable is specific to each person; the decision is made according to examination findings.
The SMILE Procedure
SMILE Steps
A flapless method in which a lenticule prepared with a femtosecond laser is removed through a small incision.
Assessment
Corneal topography and thickness are assessed.
Laser
A lenticule is created inside the cornea with a femtosecond laser.
Small Incision
The lenticule is removed through a 2–4 mm incision.
Flapless, Small Incision
Comfort & Comparison
Thanks to its flapless structure, an advantage for dry eye and a fast return to active life.
LASIK/PRK
Suitability for the method is assessed together.
Comfort
Recovery is fast thanks to the small incision.
Monitoring
Vision stabilisation is monitored at check-ups.
Fast and Comfortable
Is SMILE right for you?
The most suitable laser method is decided together based on your corneal structure and prescription.
Benefits & Aftercare
Benefits of SMILE
With its flapless, small-incision structure, SMILE is a comfortable and safe refractive method.
- Flapless, small-incision application
- Advantage for dry eye
- Suitability for an active life and sport
Aftercare
Following simple advice after the procedure supports recovery and the result.
- Not rubbing the eye in the first days
- Regular use of the recommended drops
- Attending check-up examinations