SMILE Pro is an advanced evolution of the SMILE eye surgery, offering faster treatment, greater precision, and a broader treatment range—making it a compelling choice for many seeking vision correction.
If you’re wondering whether to choose SMILE or SMILE Pro, understanding the differences in technology, patient experience, and clinical outcomes will help you make a confident decision.
This guide breaks down how SMILE and SMILE Pro compare, what sets the new technology apart, and what you should consider before booking your procedure.
Understanding SMILE and SMILE Pro: The Basics
What Is SMILE?
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery designed to correct myopia and astigmatism. The procedure uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin disc (lenticule) within the cornea, which is then removed through a tiny incision. This reshapes the cornea, correcting vision without the need for a large flap, as in LASIK.
What Is SMILE Pro?
SMILE Pro is the latest advancement in SMILE technology, built on the same surgical principles but powered by the ZEISS VisuMax 800 femtosecond laser. The key upgrade is speed: SMILE Pro completes the laser scanning in under 10 seconds per eye, compared to 22 seconds for traditional SMILE using the VisuMax 500 laser. This leap in technology brings several benefits for both patients and surgeons.
Key Differences Between SMILE and SMILE Pro
Laser Speed and Surgical Time
- SMILE: Laser scanning takes about 22 seconds per eye with the VisuMax 500 system.
- SMILE Pro: Laser scanning is completed in less than 10 seconds per eye with the VisuMax 800, thanks to a fourfold increase in pulse rate (2 MHz vs. 500 kHz).
Why does this matter?
Shorter surgery times mean less exposure of the eye to the environment, reducing the risk of infection, minimising patient discomfort, and potentially leading to a quicker recovery.
Precision and Advanced Technology
SMILE Pro incorporates advanced imaging, AI guidance, and enhanced software:
- CentraLign system: Automatically aligns the laser with the center of the eye, improving centration and reducing the risk of decentration.
- OcuLign technology: Adjusts for natural eye rotation (cyclotorsion), enhancing astigmatism correction accuracy.
- AI-driven planning: Offers finer adjustments and more personalised treatment, especially for complex cases.
Treatment Range and Customisation
- SMILE: Corrects myopia and astigmatism.
- SMILE Pro: Expands the treatment range to include myopia (up to -10D), astigmatism (up to -5D), and hyperopia (up to +7D), making it suitable for a wider range of patients.
Patient Comfort and Recovery
- SMILE: Minimally invasive, less dry eye compared to LASIK, but recovery may take 3–4 days.
- SMILE Pro: Even less discomfort, with many patients seeing clearly within 24 hours. The smaller incision (2–4 mm) and faster procedure reduce inflammation and dry eye risk.
Visual Outcomes and Safety
- SMILE Pro achieves high accuracy and safety, with studies showing 96% of patients reach 20/20 vision or better, and improved results for moderate to high astigmatism compared to traditional SMILE.
- Both procedures are flapless, preserving corneal strength and reducing complications seen in flap-based surgeries like LASIK.
Technology Behind the Procedures: VisuMax 500 vs. VisuMax 800
| Feature | VisuMax 500 (SMILE) | VisuMax 800 (SMILE Pro) |
| Laser pulse rate | 500 kHz | 2 MHz |
| Laser time per eye | 22 seconds | 8–10 seconds |
| Centration tools | Manual, operator-dependent | Automated (CentraLign, OcuLign) |
| Cyclotorsion control | Manual | Automated |
| User interface | Standard | Enhanced, AI-assisted |
| Treatment range | Myopia, astigmatism | Myopia, astigmatism, hyperopia |
Clinical Results: What Does the Research Say?
- Efficacy: SMILE Pro delivers excellent refractive outcomes, with 99% of eyes within ±1.0 D of target correction and a safety index of 1.0.
- Astigmatism Correction: SMILE Pro’s advanced alignment tools improve correction for moderate to high astigmatism, with 91% of eyes achieving 20/20 vision in these cases, 3% higher than traditional SMILE.
- Safety: No significant intra- or post-operative complications have been reported in large studies of SMILE Pro.
Patient Experience: What to Expect?
Before Surgery
- Comprehensive eye exam and corneal mapping to determine eligibility.
- Detailed discussion of your vision goals and medical history.
During Surgery
- Both procedures are quick and virtually painless.
- SMILE Pro’s faster laser time means less time under the laser and less anxiety for many patients.
After Surgery
- SMILE Pro patients typically experience clearer vision sooner, often within a day.
- Mild symptoms like light sensitivity or dryness may occur but usually resolve quickly.
- Follow-up visits ensure optimal healing and visual outcomes.
Who Should Choose SMILE Pro Over SMILE?
SMILE Pro is ideal for:
- Patients seeking the fastest recovery and least discomfort.
- Those with moderate to high myopia, astigmatism or hyperopia.
- Individuals who value the latest technology and highest precision.
- Patients with busy lifestyles who want to return to work or activities quickly.
Traditional SMILE remains an excellent option for:
- Patients with low to moderate myopia or astigmatism.
- Those who prefer a proven, slightly more affordable technology.
Making Your Decision: SMILE or SMILE Pro?
When choosing between SMILE and SMILE Pro, consider your vision needs, lifestyle, and budget. Both options are safe and effective, but SMILE Pro’s speed, precision, and expanded treatment range make it the preferred choice for many, especially those with higher myopia, astigmatism or hyperopia, or anyone wanting the latest in eye surgery technology.
The Bottom Line: Which Is Right for You?
SMILE Pro builds on the proven success of SMILE, offering faster, more precise, and more comfortable vision correction with a broader treatment range.
If you want the best technology, the quickest recovery, and the highest level of customisation, SMILE Pro is the clear choice. Still, both procedures deliver excellent results for most patients. Talk to your eye surgeon about your goals and medical history to find the surgery that’s right for you.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation with a refractive surgeon experienced in both SMILE and SMILE Pro to discuss your options and get personalised advice for your eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SMILE Pro safer than SMILE?
Both are extremely safe, but SMILE Pro’s faster laser and automated alignment may further reduce rare complications like suction loss or decentration.
Does SMILE Pro cost more?
Yes, SMILE Pro is generally more expensive due to its advanced technology and faster recovery.
Can SMILE Pro treat more types of vision problems?
Yes. SMILE Pro can correct myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia, while SMILE is limited to myopia and astigmatism.
How soon can I resume normal activities?
Most SMILE Pro patients return to their daily routines within 24–48 hours, while SMILE may require 3–4 days.
