What is SMILE Pro?
Many people want clearer vision without relying on glasses or contact lenses. If you have been researching laser eye surgery, you may have come across the term SMILE Pro.
SMILE Pro is a type of laser vision correction that may be suitable for some people with short sightedness and astigmatism. It is based on the SMILE procedure, which stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction.
At Eagle Eye Surgeons, patients can have a detailed eye assessment to learn whether SMILE Pro or another vision correction option may be suitable for their eyes.
Understanding SMILE Pro
SMILE Pro is a laser eye surgery procedure that uses advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea and improve how light focuses on the retina.
Unlike some other laser eye surgery procedures, SMILE Pro does not require the creation of a large corneal flap. Instead, a laser creates a small piece of tissue within the cornea, known as a lenticule. This lenticule is then removed through a small opening.
The aim of the procedure is to correct vision problems caused by short sightedness and, in some cases, astigmatism.1https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6784775/
What does SMILE Pro stand for?
The word SMILE stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. The "Pro" version refers to the latest generation of technology used to perform the treatment.
The procedure uses a highly advanced femtosecond laser to create the lenticule and the small opening in the cornea.
SMILE Pro is designed to make the treatment process efficient while maintaining a personalised approach to vision correction.2https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6784775/
What vision problems can SMILE Pro treat?
SMILE Pro is primarily used to treat short sightedness, also known as myopia. Some patients with astigmatism may also be suitable candidates.
Short sightedness makes distant objects appear blurry. People with myopia may find it difficult to see road signs, television screens, or objects in the distance without glasses or contact lenses.3https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08820538.2020.1807028
By reshaping the cornea, SMILE Pro aims to improve how light enters the eye.
Can SMILE Pro treat long sightedness?
SMILE Pro is generally used for short sightedness and certain levels of astigmatism.
Treatment options for long sightedness and age-related vision changes may differ. Some patients may be better suited to other procedures such as LASIK, PRK, or PRESBYOND.
A detailed consultation is important because every patient has different vision needs.
How is SMILE Pro different from LASIK?
Many patients compare SMILE Pro with LASIK when exploring laser eye surgery options.
Both procedures aim to improve vision by reshaping the cornea. However, they use different techniques.
LASIK involves creating a thin flap on the surface of the cornea before the laser treatment is performed. SMILE Pro uses a small incision instead of a larger flap.
Why does the procedure matter?
Different procedures may suit different patients. Factors such as corneal thickness, prescription strength, eye health, and lifestyle can influence which treatment may be recommended.
No single procedure is suitable for everyone. This is why a personalised eye assessment is an important part of the decision-making process.
Your surgeon can explain the differences between available treatments and discuss which options may be suitable for your eyes.
What happens during a SMILE Pro procedure?
SMILE Pro is usually performed as a day procedure. Before treatment begins, numbing eye drops are used to help keep the patient comfortable.
During the procedure, the laser creates a small lenticule within the cornea. The surgeon then removes the lenticule through a small opening.
The change in the shape of the cornea helps improve how light focuses inside the eye.
How long does treatment take?
The laser portion of SMILE Pro is very quick. However, patients should expect to spend additional time at the clinic for preparation, treatment, and post-procedure checks.
Every patient experience is different. Your surgeon can explain what to expect during your consultation.
What is recovery like after SMILE Pro?
Recovery experiences vary from person to person. Some patients notice vision improvements soon after treatment, while others may need more time for their vision to stabilise.
Patients are usually given eye drops and instructions to support healing after the procedure.
Follow-up appointments are an important part of the recovery process.
Caring for your eyes during recovery
Patients should follow all instructions provided by their eye care team.
It is important to attend scheduled follow-up visits and avoid rubbing the eyes during the healing period.
Recovery advice may vary depending on the individual patient and their treatment plan.
Who may be suitable for SMILE Pro?
Suitability for SMILE Pro depends on several factors. These include eye health, prescription stability, corneal measurements, and overall vision needs.
Patients must undergo a detailed assessment before a treatment recommendation can be made.
Not everyone is suitable for SMILE Pro. Some patients may be advised that another vision correction procedure is more appropriate.
Why suitability testing is important
Suitability testing helps the surgeon gather detailed information about the eyes.
Advanced scans and measurements can help identify factors that may affect treatment outcomes or recovery.4https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6784775/
These tests also help ensure that the recommended treatment is tailored to the patient's needs.
What are the possible benefits of SMILE Pro?
Some patients choose SMILE Pro because they would like to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
Others may be interested in the procedure because it uses a small incision rather than a larger corneal flap.
Potential benefits and outcomes vary between individuals.
Understanding risks and limitations
Like all medical procedures, SMILE Pro has potential risks and limitations.
Some patients may experience dry eyes, glare, halos, blurry vision, or other side effects during recovery. Outcomes can vary from person to person.
No procedure can guarantee perfect vision or complete freedom from glasses or contact lenses. A consultation can help patients understand the potential benefits and risks based on their individual circumstances.
How do you know if SMILE Pro is right for you?
The best way to learn whether SMILE Pro may be suitable is through a detailed eye assessment.
Your surgeon will evaluate your eye health, prescription, and vision goals before discussing treatment options.
This personalised approach helps ensure that patients receive recommendations based on their individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
Making an informed decision
Choosing laser eye surgery is an important decision. Patients should feel comfortable asking questions about treatment options, recovery, risks, and expected outcomes.
A thorough consultation provides an opportunity to discuss these topics and understand what may be realistic for your eyes.
Good information can help patients make informed decisions about their vision correction journey.
Taking the next step
If you are considering laser eye surgery and would like to learn more about SMILE Pro, a detailed consultation can help you understand your options.
At Eagle Eye Surgeons, patients receive personalised assessments to determine whether SMILE Pro or another treatment option may be suitable.
The best way to begin your journey is to take a suitability self test and learn more about your vision correction options.
Find out if you are suitable for vision correction
Vision correction isn’t suitable for everyone.
The first step is to book a free appointment to find out whether you can benefit.
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Hi, I’m Dr. Erica Darian-Smith
I’m a FRANZCO ophthalmic surgeon focused on refractive surgery. I trained in Sydney at Prince of Wales Hospital, then completed a two-year corneal and refractive fellowship in Toronto, Canada. I also hold a Graduate Diploma in Cataract and Refractive Surgery and a Master of Medicine in Ophthalmic Sciences from the University of Sydney, and I lecture there as a Clinical Lecturer. I am a Fellow of the World College of Refractive Surgery and Vision Sciences and have a subspecialty interest in treating presbyopia.
I take time to listen, explain options clearly, and guide you through each step so you can make informed choices with confidence and calm. I am passionate about getting you your best visual outcomes.
Owner
FRANZCO, FWCRS, MMed, MBBS
Hi, I’m Dr. Mitch Lee
I’m a FRANZCO trained ophthalmic surgeon. My work covers refractive surgery, cataract surgery, complex anterior segment and lens surgery, and conditions of the retina and vitreous. I completed medical training at the University of Sydney and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, then completed ophthalmology training in the Prince of Wales Hospital network. I am trained in refractive surgery and have completed the Forefront Refractive Surgery Course run by the highly respected London Vision Clinic. I have further fellowship level training in complex anterior segment surgery and vitreoretinal surgery.
In addition to my work with Eagle Eye Surgeons, I am the Head of Department for Ophthalmology at Nepean Hospital and have led the expansion of publicly funded eye surgery in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District.
I focus on clear explanations, careful planning, and follow-up that keeps you supported at every stage, always.
Owner
FRANZCO, MMed(Critical Care), MBBS(Hons), BSc
