SMILE Pro eye surgery is the world’s first AI-based robotic specs removal technology. This US-FDA approved technology corrects your vision in just 9 seconds. The surgery is 100% bladeless and flapless. You will not experience any pain during the procedure.
SMILE Pro helps give you long-term, crystal clear vision by reshaping the cornea, using high-precision femtosecond laser. Unlike conventional LASIK surgeries, SMILE Pro does not include the creation of a corneal flap, making it a preferred option for many eligible patients.
Complex refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness) and myopic astigmatism can significantly hamper daily activities, professional performance, and overall quality of life. While specs and contact lenses offer temporary vision correction (as long as in use), they cannot treat the root cause of blurry vision.
SMILE Pro surgery is a permanent, one-time solution which corrects refractive errors by reshaping the cornea and altering the way light focuses on the retina.
At Sohana Hospital, SMILE Pro surgery is performed after a thorough eye evaluation, eligibility screening, and comprehensive patient counselling. Sohana Hospital boasts a highly experienced team of the best eye specialists in Chandigarh, providing the highest quality of treatment at affordable prices.
What is SMILE Pro Eye Surgery?
SMILE Pro eye surgery is an advanced laser specs removal surgery that permanently corrects your vision. With the help of the femtosecond laser, a small lens-shaped disc (lenticule) is created in the cornea. This lenticule is then removed by the surgeon, which results in the reshaping of the cornea.
This reshaping of the cornea allows light rays to focus on the retina correctly, thereby improving your vision.
Unlike conventional LASIK, SMILE Pro does not rely on the creation of a corneal flap for vision correction. It corrects refractive errors by performing the entire surgery within the cornea itself. This makes the procedure the least invasive option available in the market.
SMILE Pro is approved to treat myopia and myopic astigmatism, but individual suitability depends on various factors, such as overall eye health, eye power stability, corneal thickness, and ocular anatomy.
Full Form of SMILE Pro
SMILE or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction is a procedure that involves creating a thin, lens-shaped disc (lenticule) within the cornea, which is then removed through a small incision to correct vision. “Pro” refers to the advanced version of the technology that features improvements in laser performance and overall surgical workflow.
The term SMILE Pro is used for a technologically advanced and refined version of the original SMILE surgery. It is designed to improve the overall procedural comfort, reduce laser time, and enhance surgical efficiency.
Evolution of Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery is an ever-evolving domain of the eye care industry, constantly improving in safety, precision, efficiency, and patient comfort. Since conventional refractive surgeries heavily relied on mechanical techniques, they had their own set of drawbacks.
The introduction of LASIK essentially revolutionised specs removal by creating a corneal flap and employing excimer laser ablation. Later advancements brought forth Femto LASIK, where the femtosecond laser eliminated the need for a mechanical blade to create a corneal flap, enhancing precision. Then came Contoura Vision – this technology refined visual outcomes through its topography-guided treatment.
SMILE also marked a significant shift in the sector by altogether eliminating the need for flap creation. SMILE Pro represents the latest advancement, offering a fast, flapless, and minimally invasive option.
Why is SMILE Pro Called a Flapless Surgery?
SMILE Pro is called a flapless specs removal surgery as it achieves visual clarity without the need to cut or lift a corneal flap. Instead, a micro-incision (about 2-4mm) is made to extract the lenticule.
This flapless procedure helps limit biochemical disruption, preserves the cornea’s natural strength, and reduces the risk of flap-induced complications (dry eyes, halos, glare, etc).
How SMILE Pro Eye Surgery Works
SMILE Pro eye surgery works by reshaping the cornea’s curvature. The surgery relies on advanced femtosecond laser technology to perform the steps for vision correction within the cornea.
Step-by-step SMILE Pro Procedure
Step 1: Before the actual surgery begins, topical anaesthetic eye drops are administered. The patient is made to lie comfortably, while a speculum holds their eye open. Once the eye speculum is in place, a contact glass is placed on the eye to keep it still.
Step 2: Then, with the help of the femtosecond laser, a small lens-shaped disc or lenticule is created in the cornea. The size of the lenticule depends on each patient’s specific refractive error.
Step 3: The lenticule is then carefully extracted from a small side incision of approximately 2-4mm. This extraction results in a reshaped corneal curvature, consequently correcting your vision. The side incision made for extraction heals on its own – no stitches are required, and the corneal tissue surrounding the operated part remains intact.
SMILE Pro Surgery Procedure Time
The actual laser surgery takes only 9 seconds per eye. The total surgical time for both eyes is typically around 5-10 minutes. Once operated on, you might be asked to stay in the recovery room for 30 minutes – for observation. After receiving a post-op evaluation and clean-chit from your surgeon, you will be free to go home.
Is SMILE Pro Surgery Painful?
No. SMILE Pro is one of the latest advancements in the field of specs removal. One of the reasons the technology stands out is the fact that it offers a completely painless experience. While slight pressure is common, you will not experience any sharp pain during the surgery. Besides, the laser application itself lasts only 9 seconds, so even the pressure that you might feel will be short-lived.
Eligibility for SMILE Pro Eye Surgery
- You must be over the age of 18 years
- You must have a stable specs number for at least a year
- You must have overall good eye health
- You should preferably have good general health
Benefits of SMILE Pro Laser Eye Surgery
SMILE Pro offers immense benefits to patients, which were never possible with LASIK and other vision correction surgeries. That is why it has been gaining popularity among those looking for permanent specs removal with minimal discomfort and fast recovery. Here, we elaborate SMILE Pro benefits for you:
– Painless & Blade-Free Procedure
SMILE Pro eye surgery does not use a mechanical blade, but advanced femtosecond laser technology for all surgical steps. This significantly enhances patient comfort and safety. No anxiety and no nervousness – as there’s no blade and no pain!
– Quick
SMILE Pro utilises the most advanced femtosecond laser technology. The laser time is just 9 seconds – the shortest as of now. You do not even realise when the surgery is over! It is 3X faster than ReLEx SMILE.
If you also include the preparation time, you still get free from the hospital in a few hours and require no hospitalisation.
– Refractive Error Correction
SMILE Pro can correct a wide range of refractive errors. It can treat myopia (nearsightedness) up to -10 diopters and astigmatism up to -5 diopters. That makes it suitable for even those with high refractive errors.
– Accurate
SMILE Pro is done with the Zeiss Visumax 800 machine, which ensures the highest precision. The AI-based technology is equipped with a high-performance digital sensor system, which helps determine the centre point for creation of the lenticule. The automatic digital tracker makes up for the slightest eye movement during the procedure. It entirely eliminates the scope of any error while ensuring long-term stability and permanent results.
– Safe
SMILE Pro is a US-FDA approved specs removal technology. This aspect testifies to its safety. It is AI-based with smart robotic assistance, which significantly enhances control during the procedure. Apart from this, it uses not a mechanical blade, but a femtosecond laser for creating a tiny incision, making it highly safe. Being a flapless surgery, the risk of complications is almost zero. These aspects, combined with other unique features, give SMILE Pro the status of a highly safe treatment.
– Trust
Ever since its introduction in 2023, 10 million eyes(1) have already been treated with the cutting-edge SMILE Pro eye surgery. Such widespread use and extensive track record are enough to prove the high level of trust and efficacy SMILE Pro brings to the field.
– Flapless Surgery
A distinguishing feature of SMILE Pro is that it does not involve flap creation. How does this benefit a patient? It maintains corneal strength, eliminates flap-related complications, and minimises infection risk. It also promotes faster recovery.
– Tiny Incision
SMILE Pro adjusts the corneal curvature through the removal of corneal tissue (lenticule). It achieves this with minimal invasion. The incision measures just around 2 – 4 mm. Just look at it this way – it is 80% smaller than what is needed in Femto LASIK. This means you experience no discomfort during the procedure. Also, you recover faster.
– Maintains Corneal Integrity
Being minimally invasive, SMILE Pro reduces the impact on the upper layer of the cornea. This helps preserve corneal biomechanics (natural corneal curvature) to the greatest extent, and reduces structural weakening, contributing to long-term stability after surgery.
– Negligible Side Effects
Since SMILE Pro is done through tiny incisions, there is minimal cutting through nerves around the cornea. This minimises the chances of side effects typically associated with other specs removal surgeries. SMILE Pro patients rarely report eye inflammation, dry eyes, blurry vision in dim light, or halos and glare at night.
– Quick Recovery
Another predominant factor that makes SMILE Pro a much sought-after vision correction treatment is improved visual clarity in 24 hours. In fact, most patients notice improved vision almost immediately after surgery. You can comfortably resume college or a job the next day itself.
– Ideal for Active Lifestyle & Sports Persons
Since SMILE Pro is flapless, there is no risk of flap displacement due to trauma. This makes SMILE Pro a preferred choice for those with physically active lifestyles.
– Regulatory Approval
SMILE Pro is US-FDA certified, which means it meets international safety and efficacy standards. The procedure is being used all over the world with highly successful outcomes.
SMILE Pro vs Other Laser Eye Surgeries
Every specs removal surgery comes with its own set of advantages and limitations. Below is a detailed comparison to help you evaluate which option fits your requirements the best.
SMILE Pro vs LASIK: Is SMILE Pro Better Than LASIK?
Conventional LASIK includes creating a corneal flap and then reshaping the cornea with the help of an excimer laser. SMILE Pro is a flapless procedure performed with the most advanced femtosecond laser. It maintains the corneal strength while correcting your refractive error.
SMILE Pro is significantly more advanced than traditional LASIK. Unlike conventional technology, SMILE Pro uses an AI-integrated software, a robotic surgical approach, and comes with a reduced risk of post-op complications such as dry eyes, halos/glares, etc.
Here’s a concise glance at the differences between the two:
SMILE Pro vs SILK
Both SMILE Pro and SILK are flapless lenticule extraction (minimally invasive) procedures that reshape the cornea using femtosecond lasers – to restore clear vision. What sets SMILE Pro apart is its faster laser speed and refined energy profile, which improve surgical efficiency while delivering excellent outcomes.
The two differ significantly in their approach, the technology deployed, and long-term implications.
Here’s a concise glance at the differences between the two:
SMILE Pro vs SMILE
SMILE Pro is the upgraded version of the SMILE technology. The two differ primarily in terms of technological approach – while SMILE is a non-robotic, non-AI technology, SMILE Pro is the world’s 1st AI+Robotic technology, offering better precision. Some other differences include laser time, recovery time, and side effects.
Here’s a concise glance at the differences between the two:
Is SMILE Pro Permanent?
Wondering if getting SMILE Pro eye surgery will give you permanent freedom from specs and contact lenses? The answer is yes.
The results of SMILE Pro eye surgery are typically permanent. The procedure maintains corneal strength to provide long-term visual stability and freedom from specs.
SMILE Pro Recovery Time
SMILE Pro is an AI-powered specs removal technology. It is completely bladeless, flapless, and painless. It involves just 9 seconds of laser time and causes minimal tissue damage. You can return to normal activities in just 24 hours.
Most patients who get SMILE Pro at Sohana Eye Hospital report getting clear vision almost instantaneously. Resume college/work the next day itself!
Success Rate of SMILE Pro Eye Surgery
The success rate of any refractive eye surgery is calculated based on specific criteria, such as vision acuity, patient satisfaction, complication rates, etc. Going by these parameters, the SMILE Pro surgery enjoys a high success rate(2).
SMILE Pro is a highly successful laser vision correction surgery. 10 million eyes have already been treated with this revolutionary AI-based procedure that gives clear vision in only 9 seconds. This in itself is a testament enough to the success of SMILE Pro.
Why Choose SMILE Pro at Sohana Hospital?
First to Bring SMILE Pro to Tricity
Established in 1995, Sohana Hospital is credited with introducing SMILE Pro to the North Indian region. The ophthalmology team at Sohana Hospital comprises highly skilled eye surgeons with years of experience.
1 Lakh+ Refractive Eye Surgeries
The hospital has consistently been the favourite destination of national and international patients when it comes to LASIK laser eye surgeries. Over 1,00,000 refractive eye surgeries have already been performed at Sohana Hospital.
The reasons are not hard to understand. Expert eye specialists and supportive medical staff take care of every little aspect – right from the time you enter the hospital to your specs removal surgery and post-op care.
Comprehensive Eye tests
We begin with thorough screening tests to diagnose your refractive error (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia), its degree, corneal thickness, overall eye health, and general health. Based on the results of these tests, eye experts explain to you which LASIK laser eye surgeries would be suitable for you. This information, coupled with your personal preferences, helps decide the right vision correction surgery for you.
All Advanced Specs Removal Technologies Under One Roof
Sohana Hospital, Mohali, is the only hospital in the region and tricity with all of the world’s latest specs removal surgeries under one roof. These include SMILE Pro, Wavelight Plus InnovEyes, Contoura Vision, Femto LASIK, PRK, ICL, and RLE. All these surgeries are US-FDA approved, which depicts their safety and efficacy.
World-Class Care & No-Cost EMI
Another feature that makes Sohana Hospital stand apart is that we boast the most advanced diagnostics, world-class patient facilities, stringent hygiene protocols, ethical care, and flexible payment options. Not only is Sohana Hospital on the panel of all major public and private organisations, but it also offers easy, no-cost EMI.
Fastest & Safest Specs Removal
Sohana Hospital’s ophthalmology team follows a minimally invasive approach, which ensures you have less pain and a faster recovery, accurate surgery, and low complication risk – to correct your refractive errors effectively and help you achieve your clear vision goals – in the shortest time.
Get in touch with Sohana Hospital and say goodbye to specs!
FAQs on SMILE Pro Eye Surgery
1. What is SMILE Pro eye surgery?
SMILE Pro or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction is an advanced specs removal surgery that involves minimal invasion and just 9 seconds of laser time. Unlike conventional LASIK, SMILE Pro is a no-blade, no-cut, no-flap, and no-pain vision correction treatment.
It corrects all common vision issues, such as myopia or short-sightedness and astigmatism. This AI-based surgery comes with 24-hour recovery and needs no hospitalisation.
2. How is SMILE Pro different from LASIK or PRK?
While LASIK and PRK vision correction surgeries have been around for some time, SMILE Pro is an AI-based minimally invasive option that offers unique advantages, like 9-second laser time, a painless experience, and recovery within 24 hours.
LASIK: Flap-based surgery, longer recovery, and complication risk.
PRK: Flapless, but longer recovery and more discomfort.
SMILE Pro: Flapless with just a tiny incision (around 2-4 mm), maintains corneal strength, no pain, and quick recovery.
SMILE Pro is especially beneficial for those with a high refractive error or thin corneas, since these people may not qualify for conventional LASIK.
3. How to know I am fit for SMILE Pro laser eye surgery?
If you are aged 18 or above, have mild to moderate refractive error (myopia up to -10 D or astigmatism up to -5 D), and have overall good eye health, you would likely be a good candidate for SMILE Pro eye surgery.
Detailed LASIK screening is done at Sohana Eye Hospital to ensure that you can opt for the 9-second specs removal surgery.
4. Are there any SMILE Pro surgery side effects or risks?
SMILE Pro is considered highly safe, but there may be some temporary halo or glare issues for a few days. The treatment is done after a thorough eye evaluation to add another layer of safety.
5. What is SMILE Pro surgery time?
SMILE Pro is remarkably quick. It involves just a 9-second laser time. If we include preparation time and time needed to position the patient, it typically takes a few hours at the hospital.
6. Is recovery after SMILE Pro painful?
No. SMILE Pro laser eye surgery is designed for a painless experience. However, some patients may experience slight discomfort or sensitivity for 1-2 days after the surgery. Recovery is generally fast, with most individuals resuming normal activities and work the next day.
Nonetheless, we advise you to avoid strenuous activities and limit screen time for 7-10 days.
7. Is SMILE Pro safer than regular LASIK?
While conventional LASIK needs an incision of around 20 mm, SMILE Pro is done through a tiny incision of about 2 – 4 mm. Additionally, SMILE Pro involves only a 9-second laser time, helps maintain corneal strength, and rarely results in dry eyes. All these aspects make SMILE Pro a much safer specs removal option than conventional LASIK.
8. What about flap complications?
SMILE Pro is a flapless vision correction technology. Although flap-induced complications are rare even with conventional LASIK, SMILE Pro totally eliminates flap-related risks.
9. Is SMILE Pro suitable for dry eyes?
SMILE Pro procedure utilises the keyhole technology. Unlike conventional LASIK, your cornea remains stable, and there is minimal disruption to tear flow. These aspects make SMILE Pro suitable for those with dry eyes.
10. How long does vision improvement take after SMILE Pro?
Most patients at Sohana Eye Hospital report clear vision almost immediately (within 24 hours) after SMILE Pro. This makes it an attractive option for students and working professionals.
11. Is SMILE Pro suitable for high refractive errors?
A key feature of SMILE Pro eye surgery is that individuals with higher refractive errors, thin corneas, or dry eyes can benefit from it.
While Femto LASIK can treat a maximum of -8 D, SMILE Pro can correct myopia up to -10 D.
12. Are SMILE Pro results permanent?
Yes. Since SMILE Pro laser vision correction surgery reshapes the cornea, results are generally permanent. However, there may be age-related changes in vision after the age of 40.
13. How affordable is SMILE Pro surgery cost?
SMILE Pro, being a highly advanced surgery, costs slightly more than conventional LASIK. In India, SMILE Pro typically costs around INR 1,40,000 for both eyes.
But given the advantages it offers, the cost is justified. There are long-term savings on spectacles, contacts, and doctor visits. And not to forget the immense comfort SMILE Pro brings.
At Sohana Hospital, you can also avail the easy, no-cost EMI options to make your specs removal journey comfortable.
14. What to expect during SMILE Pro consultation?
Sohana Eye Hospital, Mohali, has a thorough consultation process for SMILE Pro. Several important screening tests are done to ensure you are fit for this advanced surgery.
These comprehensive tests include checking the degree of your refractive error, Pentacam test, dry eye evaluation, Fundus evaluation, etc. After this, you have a discussion with our expert SMILE Pro surgeons regarding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. You can ask questions and clear all your doubts during this consultation.
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