Is Smile Pro eye surgery safe?
Many people explore laser eye surgery to reduce their need for glasses or contact lenses. One question often asked is about safety. Is SMILE Pro eye surgery safe?
It is normal to want clear information before making a decision about your eyes. Learning how SMILE Pro works and how safety is managed can help you feel more informed.
At IVISION LASER in Adelaide, we support patients with clear and simple information. This article explains SMILE Pro and what to consider when thinking about safety.
This information is general in nature and does not replace advice from a qualified eye health professional.
What is SMILE Pro?
SMILE Pro is a type of laser eye surgery. It is used to correct refractive errors.
Refractive errors include short sightedness and astigmatism. These conditions affect how light focuses in the eye.1https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#overview
SMILE stands for small incision lenticule extraction. In this procedure, a laser is used to create a small piece of tissue inside the cornea. This piece is then removed through a very small opening.2https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#overview
This changes the shape of the cornea and helps light focus more clearly on the retina.3https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#overview
The aim is to improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses for some people.4https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#overview
What does safe mean in eye surgery?
When people ask if a procedure is safe, they usually want to know about risks and how they are managed.
All medical procedures carry some level of risk. Eye surgery is no different.
Safety in laser eye surgery includes careful patient selection, trained surgeons, modern technology, and proper aftercare.
It also includes clear communication so patients understand what to expect.
Is SMILE Pro considered safe?
SMILE Pro is used around the world and is based on established laser eye surgery techniques.5https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#overview
For many patients, it can be a suitable option when recommended after a full assessment.
However, no procedure can be described as risk free.
Outcomes can vary depending on the individual eyes, prescription, and overall eye health.
A detailed consultation is needed to understand whether SMILE Pro may be appropriate for you.
How safety is assessed before surgery
Before any laser eye procedure, a full eye examination is carried out.
This assessment checks the health of your eyes and measures your vision.
Your eye doctor will look at the shape and thickness of your cornea. They will also review your prescription and check for any eye conditions.
Stable vision is important. This means your prescription has not changed much over time.
If your eyes are not suitable for SMILE Pro, your doctor will explain why and may discuss other options.
The role of the surgeon and technology
Safety depends on both the surgeon and the technology used.
Laser eye surgery is performed by trained medical professionals who follow clinical guidelines.
Modern laser systems are designed with advanced features to support accuracy during the procedure.
These systems are carefully maintained and checked to ensure they meet safety standards.
Your care team will guide you through each step of the process.
What happens during the procedure
SMILE Pro is usually a quick procedure.6https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#overview
Before it begins, numbing eye drops are used to help keep you comfortable. You will be asked to look at a target light while the laser works.7https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#overview
Most patients do not feel pain during the procedure, though some may notice light pressure. The small incision used in SMILE Pro means no flap is created on the surface of the eye.8https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#overview
Your surgeon will explain what to expect before treatment.
What to expect after surgery
After the procedure, your eyes begin to heal.
Some patients notice mild discomfort, light sensitivity, or watery eyes for a short time.9https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#recovery-and-outlook
Vision may be slightly blurry at first and improve as healing continues.10https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#recovery-and-outlook
You will be given eye drops and aftercare instructions to support recovery.11https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#recovery-and-outlook
Follow up visits are important so your doctor can check your progress.12https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#recovery-and-outlook
Possible risks and side effects
As with any medical procedure, SMILE Pro has possible risks and side effects.
Some patients may experience dry eyes, glare, or halos around lights, especially during early recovery. These effects are often temporary and improve over time.13https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#risks-benefits
In some cases, vision may not be fully corrected, and glasses may still be needed for certain tasks.
Your eye doctor will explain the potential risks and what they may mean for you.
Why individual assessment matters
Every person’s eyes are different.
A procedure that is suitable for one person may not be suitable for another.
This is why a full assessment is essential before deciding on treatment.
Your doctor will consider your eye health, lifestyle, and vision goals.
They will recommend the option that is most appropriate for your individual needs.
Understanding realistic expectations
It is important to have realistic expectations when considering SMILE Pro.
The goal is to improve vision and reduce reliance on glasses or contact lenses for some people.
Results can vary, and some patients may still need glasses in certain situations.14https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#recovery-and-outlook
Laser eye surgery does not stop the natural ageing process of the eyes.15https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery#recovery-and-outlook
Your doctor will explain what you may expect based on your eyes.
Making an informed decision
Choosing to have laser eye surgery is a personal decision.
Understanding how SMILE Pro works and what safety measures are in place can help you feel more confident.
It is important to ask questions and take time to consider your options.
Clear information helps you make a decision that feels right for you.
Take the next step
If you are asking whether SMILE Pro eye surgery is safe, the best way to find out is through a professional assessment.
Every patient is different, and safety depends on your individual eye health.
You can start by taking the suitability self test. This quick step can help you explore whether SMILE Pro or another laser eye procedure may be suitable for you.
From there, you can decide if you would like to book a full consultation.
Find out if you are suitable for vision correction
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
Our most popular procedures
Discover if you can be free from glasses and contact lenses
Discover if you can be free from glasses and contact lenses
The best way to find out if laser eye treatment is right for you is to have a free assessment. We’ll examine your eyes and you’ll get a clear answer from our team on your suitability and laser vision correction options.
Hi, I’m Dr Aanchal Gupta, your laser and cataract surgeon in Adelaide
Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the joy of helping thousands of patients of all ages gain clear vision and freedom from glasses and contact lenses.
Laser eye surgery is a skill. Performing vision correction at a world-class standard hinges upon the expertise of your surgeon and their access to state-of-the-art tools.
I understand that getting eye surgery is a serious decision. Your eyes are unique and you should demand a custom solution tailored to your needs, lifestyle and goals. That’s why we offer a free appointment so we can meet and I can take the time to answer your questions and talk through any concerns you have.
I am passionate about helping patients transform their lives. I look forward to spending time with you at our gorgeous eye clinic in the heart of Adelaide to see whether you could gain exceptional vision without the need for glasses or contacts.
Dr Aanchal Gupta
MBBS, M.Med. (Ophth. Sci.), Grad. Dip. (Refract. Surg.), FRANZCO
Expert Laser Eye and Cataract Surgeon
