5 Reasons SMILE Pro Eye Surgery is a Smarter Choice Over Traditional SMILE

Yes, SMILE Pro eye surgery is a smarter choice over traditional SMILE for most patients, especially if precision, speed, and comfort are priorities. 

While both procedures share the same core method, SMILE Pro introduces a series of upgrades that improve the overall surgical experience and outcome.

If you’re considering vision correction surgery, you’ve probably come across SMILE — a flapless, minimally invasive alternative to LASIK. But there’s a newer version on the block: SMILE Pro, powered by the VisuMax 800 laser platform from ZEISS. It builds on the already strong foundation of SMILE with faster laser speeds, better tech, and more precise results. In this blog, we’ll walk you through five key reasons why SMILE Pro is a better option — and help you decide if it’s the right choice for your eyes.

What Is SMILE Pro and How Is It Different from SMILE?

Before diving into the reasons, it helps to understand what sets SMILE Pro apart.

Both SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) and SMILE Pro use a femtosecond laser to create a lenticule (a small piece of corneal tissue) and a tiny incision through which the lenticule is removed, reshaping the cornea and correcting refractive errors. This technique avoids the larger flap used in LASIK, reducing dry eye and improving corneal stability.

The difference? SMILE Pro uses next-gen equipment (VisuMax 800) and smarter automation. That results in quicker procedures, faster healing, and higher surgical accuracy.

Let’s get into the five reasons why that matters.

1. Faster Laser Speed for a Quicker and Safer Procedure

SMILE Pro dramatically reduces laser time — from 22 seconds to under 10 seconds per eye.

Why does this matter?

• Shorter surgery means less exposure of the eye to the environment

• Lower risk of infection and reduced potential for inflammation

• Less discomfort during the procedure

• Shorter recovery time — most SMILE Pro patients see clearly within 24 hours, while traditional SMILE takes 3–4 days

This time savings comes from a massive jump in laser pulse frequency:

• SMILE Pro uses a 2 MHz laser

• Traditional SMILE uses 500 kHz

That’s a 4x increase in pulse rate, enabling faster, more efficient tissue removal.

2. More Precise Results Thanks to Advanced Laser Technology

SMILE Pro delivers higher accuracy through enhanced imaging, AI guidance, and smarter alignment tools.

It’s powered by the ZEISS VisuMax 800, which introduces several upgrades:

• CentraLign system: Automatically aligns the laser with the center of the eye, even during slight movements

• OcuLign technology: Improves astigmatism correction by adjusting the laser to the exact axis of the eye

• Smart cyclotorsion control: Corrects for natural eye rotation to ensure the lenticule is created exactly where it needs to be
  

The result? Better visual outcomes, especially for patients with higher astigmatism or unique eye shapes.

3. Fully Robotic System Enhances Safety and Reduces Surgeon Fatigue

SMILE Pro uses a fully robotic, AI-driven system for consistent and precise control during surgery. Traditional SMILE is semi-robotic, meaning more manual intervention is required from the surgeon.

With SMILE Pro:

• The system handles centration, alignment, and calibration automatically

• It reduces the potential for human error

• Advanced alignment tools assist the surgeon in setting up the treatment accurately before the laser is applied

This doesn’t just benefit the doctor — it improves safety and comfort for the patient, too. You’re less likely to feel pressure, and the faster laser time reduces the chance of eye movement during the critical part of the procedure.

4. Improved Patient Comfort During and After Surgery

SMILE Pro is designed to make the whole experience more comfortable during the procedure and throughout recovery.

Compared to traditional SMILE:

• Minimal discomfort during SMILE Pro (vs. moderate with SMILE)

• Faster healing due to reduced laser energy and finer tissue cuts

• Lower risk of dry eye syndrome, since fewer corneal nerves are disrupted

This matters a lot if you:

• Already have dry eyes

• Worry about post-op side effects

• Want a smooth, low-maintenance recovery

Patients often describe the experience as “quick and painless,” with noticeable improvements in vision the very next day.

5. Optimized for Astigmatism and Complex Prescriptions

SMILE Pro is better equipped to correct moderate levels of astigmatism, thanks to more advanced technology and refined control.

Traditional SMILE works well for lower prescriptions, but SMILE Pro can handle:

• Correction of moderate astigmatism thanks to improved alignment and customization tools

• More precise lenticule positioning and alignment for better results

• Better centration and axis correction, leading to crisper results

And since SMILE Pro was FDA-approved in 2024, it reflects the most current safety standards and technological improvements.

SMILE vs. SMILE Pro: Quick Comparison Table

Is SMILE Pro Worth It?

Yes — if you’re looking for faster healing, better precision, and a smoother experience, SMILE Pro is worth the upgrade.

It may not be the cheapest option, but the time saved during surgery, the more precise outcomes, and the reduced side effects often justify the investment, especially if you have a busy lifestyle or more complex vision issues.

You’re getting:

• Top-tier laser tech

• More automation

• Better comfort and safety

• Faster results

Final Thoughts: Should You Choose SMILE Pro Over SMILE?

If you’re eligible for both, SMILE Pro offers clear advantages in nearly every category. It takes the solid foundation of SMILE and makes it smarter, faster, and more patient-friendly. From better astigmatism correction to a faster return to normal life, the improvements are more than just technical upgrades — they make a real difference in how you experience surgery and recovery.

Considering vision correction surgery? Ask your eye surgeon if SMILE Pro is available and whether it’s the right choice for your prescription and eye health. It’s not just about seeing better — it’s about getting there with less stress, less risk, and more precision.