SMILE Pro Laser
Istanbul
SMILE Pro Laser in Istanbul is available at 2 hospitals in the Voumed network.
SMILE Pro is an advanced, faster version of the SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) technique, a modern, minimally invasive laser method for correcting short-sightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Unlike older flap-based procedures, it works through a tiny opening only a few millimetres wide, with no large corneal flap. A femtosecond laser shapes a thin disc of tissue (a lenticule) inside the cornea, which the surgeon then removes through this small incision, gently reshaping the cornea so that vision is corrected. The goal is to reduce or remove dependence on glasses and contact lenses, with a quick and comfortable recovery.
On this page
At a glance
- Type
- flapless, minimally invasive femtosecond laser correction
- Used for
- myopia and astigmatism
- Key benefit
- tiny incision, preserved corneal strength and fast recovery
- Anaesthesia
- numbing eye drops only
- Where it is used
- leading accredited eye centres abroad
What it is
SMILE Pro belongs to the lenticule family of laser vision correction, in which the cornea is reshaped from within rather than by lifting a flap from its surface. The procedure is performed with a single femtosecond laser, which precisely sculpts a thin lenticule of tissue inside the cornea according to the patient's prescription. Because only a small opening, usually around 2 to 3 millimetres, is made, much of the cornea's outer surface and strength is preserved. The Pro version uses faster laser delivery and refined eye-tracking, which shortens the time the laser is applied and supports a smooth, precise treatment.
How it works
After numbing drops are placed in the eye, the patient looks toward a target light while the femtosecond laser, in a matter of seconds, creates the thin lenticule inside the cornea and a small connecting incision at its edge. The surgeon then gently separates and removes the lenticule through this tiny opening. Taking out this precisely shaped piece of tissue changes the curvature of the cornea and corrects the focusing error. No flap is created and no stitches are needed; the small incision heals naturally. The whole treatment usually takes only a few minutes per eye.
What it treats and who it helps
SMILE Pro is used to correct myopia and astigmatism in adults with a stable prescription who wish to depend less on glasses or contact lenses. Because it preserves more of the corneal surface and nerves, it can be especially appealing to people prone to dry eyes, those with an active or sporting lifestyle, and anyone who prefers a flapless option. Suitability depends on factors such as the degree of the error, corneal thickness and overall eye health, all assessed in a detailed pre-operative examination, after which the eye specialist confirms whether it is the right method.
Benefits and what to expect
The main benefits are minimal invasiveness, preserved corneal strength and a fast, comfortable recovery. The small incision and flapless design mean less disruption to the corneal surface, which is linked to a lower risk of dry eye than older methods. Many patients notice clearer vision within a day or two. Mild dryness, light sensitivity or watering can occur briefly afterwards and usually settle quickly. The care team provides eye drops and protective guidance, and final vision stabilises over the following weeks as the cornea heals.
Frequently asked questions
These answers are general guidance and may vary by provider. Confirm the details with the hospital you choose.
Is SMILE Pro painful?
No. The eye is numbed with drops, so the procedure itself is not painful, though you may feel light pressure. Afterwards, some mild irritation, watering or a gritty sensation is common for a few hours and settles quickly.
How is it different from LASIK?
LASIK creates a thin corneal flap that is lifted and repositioned, while SMILE Pro is flapless and works through a tiny incision. By preserving more of the corneal surface, it can offer a lower risk of dry eye, although both methods effectively correct vision; a specialist advises which suits your eye.
Why is there no flap?
Instead of cutting and lifting a flap, the laser shapes a thin disc of tissue inside the cornea that is removed through a small opening. Avoiding a flap keeps more of the corneal surface and structure intact, which can be reassuring for active people.
How soon will I see clearly?
Many people notice clearer vision within the first day or two, and sight continues to sharpen over the following days and weeks as the cornea heals. Some blur or light sensitivity at first is normal.
Is the correction permanent?
The reshaping of the cornea is permanent. However, the eye can still change naturally with age, so some people may notice gradual shifts later, including the normal age-related need for reading glasses.
Am I a suitable candidate?
Suitability depends on your prescription, corneal thickness and overall eye health, which are checked in a detailed pre-operative examination. An eye specialist reviews these results to confirm whether SMILE Pro or another method is the safest, most effective option for you.
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