SMILE Pro vs. SMILE: Navigating Laser Vision Correction Options
If you’re on the hunt for a glasses-free life, you’ve likely come across the revolutionary laser eye procedure, SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). Now, there’s a newer player in the game – SMILE Pro.
Wondering about the nuances between Relex SMILE Pro and Relex SMILE? Let’s break it down to help you steer your way through the maze of laser vision correction choices.
Visual Recovery
When it comes to bouncing back to clear vision, speed matters. Both SMILE and SMILE Pro deliver top-notch visual recovery outcomes. However, SMILE Pro takes the crown for a quicker return to your daily grind, giving you a speedy visual bounce-back. 1Ekktet Chansue et al, Efficacy, predictability and safety of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE),2, Article number 14, Published: 31 August 2015
Eye Drop and Post-Operative Care
Eye drops are part and parcel of the post-operative healing process for both SMILE, and SMILE Pro eye procedures. Both will have you using eye drops for a while, but SMILE Pro usually needs fewer doses. Less fumbling with bottles means you get more chill time.
Minimally Invasive Laser Technology
Both procedures use the state-of-the-art VisuMax 800. Made by Carl Zeiss – this minimally invasive laser can be used for the correction of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The laser creates a lenticule—a small piece—within the layers of the cornea that gets removed through a process called small incision lenticule extraction.2Saragoussi JJ, et al. Quality of life after LASIK: part II. Quality of life and satisfaction of a population of patients treated with LASIK [in French]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2011;34:294–302.
Return to Work
Need to get back to your day job ASAP? Both laser refractive surgeries allow for a speedy return to work, but SMILE Pro might let you punch back in even quicker, thanks to its fast visual recovery.3Blum, M. et al. (2016a) Five-year results of small incision lenticule extraction (Relex Smile), British Journal of Ophthalmology.
Risk of Dry Eye
Let’s be real, dry eyes suck. Both procedures have a lower risk of dry eye compared to other options. They’re gentle on your corneal tissue, which is ace for keeping your eyes moist.
Selecting the optimal path
Choosing the right laser vision correction procedure is a significant decision. Whether you’re inclined towards SMILE or SMILE Pro, it’s essential to consult with our expert team to determine the most suitable option tailored to your individual requirements. Our comprehensive assessment process ensures that you receive personalised care every step of the way.
To know if you’re suitable for either procedure or any other laser eye surgery, you’ll need to book a free assessment with us. In the meantime, find out which procedure (if any) is right for you by taking our 1-minute self-test.
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:
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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
