SMILE Pro vs SMILE LASIK is a comparison between two flapless laser vision correction procedures within the SMILE family.
While both techniques use a minimally invasive small-incision approach, SMILE Pro represents a newer advancement in SMILE technology.
SMILE Pro is performed using the ZEISS VisuMax 800 laser platform, offering faster laser treatment time
and a more streamlined surgical workflow compared to earlier SMILE LASIK systems.
Understanding the differences between SMILE LASIK vs SMILE Pro—including laser speed, alignment technology,
and surgical process—can help patients determine which option may be more suitable for their eyes.
In the following sections, we compare the key technological and procedural differences between SMILE Pro
and conventional SMILE LASIK.
The main difference between SMILE LASIK vs SMILE Pro lies in the laser technology and surgical workflow.
Both procedures are flapless laser vision correction methods based on the SMILE technique. However, SMILE Pro uses the newer ZEISS VisuMax 800 platform, while conventional SMILE LASIK is performed using earlier-generation systems.
This difference allows SMILE Pro to deliver faster laser treatment time and more advanced alignment technology, which may improve surgical precision and efficiency.
In short, SMILE Pro vs SMILE LASIK is not a difference in concept, but a difference in technology and performance.
In SMILE LASIK, alignment for astigmatism correction often relies on manual marking based on the surgeon’s experience.
In contrast, SMILE Pro uses automated alignment technology, including systems such as CentraLign and OcuLign, to detect eye position and rotational movement in real time.
This allows SMILE Pro to improve alignment accuracy and provide more consistent astigmatism correction compared to conventional SMILE LASIK.
Detects even subtle eye movements
with greater precision,
and automatically tracks and corrects
the pupil center and visual axis.
Recognizes rotational movement of the eye
that occurs in a lying position,
and automatically compensates for it,
helping provide more accurate astigmatism correction.
One of the key differences in SMILE Pro is the significantly reduced laser treatment time. While conventional SMILE LASIK typically takes around 20–30 seconds, SMILE Pro completes laser scanning in about 10 seconds.
This is not just about speed. The shorter SMILE Pro treatment time offers several practical benefits:
Reduced eye fixation time, which may help lower patient tension during surgery
Shorter suction duration, which may reduce the risk of suction loss
Overall shorter procedure time, which may contribute to a lower risk of infection
Overall, SMILE Pro laser speed represents an advancement in both efficiency and surgical stability, making it a more comfortable option for patients with sensitive eyes or procedural anxiety.
SMILE Pro is designed to use lower laser energy (low energy) compared to conventional systems, allowing more precise separation of corneal tissue.
Lower laser energy provides several key advantages:
Creates a smoother corneal cutting surface
Reduces unnecessary tissue damage
Positively contributes to stable visual recovery after surgery
The smoothness of the corneal surface is not just a technical detail—it is a critical factor that affects both the quality and stability of vision after surgery.
In this regard, SMILE Pro represents a technological advancement over conventional SMILE LASIK, improving both precision and visual outcomes.
In conventional SMILE LASIK, some patients may experience temporary haze symptoms for about 1–2 weeks after surgery, where vision can appear slightly blurred or foggy.
In contrast, SMILE Pro uses faster laser treatment time and more efficient energy delivery, allowing many patients to experience clearer vision immediately or as early as the next day.
This improvement is associated with reduced corneal tissue stimulation due to enhanced laser speed and more precise energy control, contributing to a smoother SMILE Pro recovery process.
Conventional SMILE LASIK is typically performed within a relatively enclosed, cylindrical laser system.
In contrast, SMILE Pro uses a dual robotic arm structure that moves precisely into position during surgery. This design creates a more open surgical environment, which may help reduce psychological discomfort for patients.
In particular, patients who feel anxious in enclosed spaces may find SMILE Pro to provide a more comfortable surgical experience.
※ Recovery speed and visual outcomes may vary depending on individual eye conditions.
If you would like to know which procedure is suitable for you, please use the buttons below to proceed with consultation or appointment booking.
SMILE Pro is performed using a faster femtosecond laser and enhanced scanning precision, allowing the lenticule to be created more uniformly within a shorter time.
This reduces overall procedure time and minimizes exposure to potential intraoperative variables, such as subtle eye movements or prolonged fixation.
The SMILE Pro procedure typically follows these steps:
The patient’s eye condition is analyzed, and a personalized lenticule design is created based on corneal characteristics.
The eye is stabilized, and the laser is aligned to ensure accurate treatment.
A lenticule and a minimal incision (approximately 2 mm) are created within the cornea.
The created lenticule is gently separated from the surrounding corneal tissue.
The lenticule is removed through the small incision to correct vision.
Compared to conventional SMILE LASIK, SMILE Pro offers shorter laser treatment time, improved centration stability, and more consistent lenticule formation, contributing to more precise visual outcomes.
STEP 1. Lenticule Creation
Lenticule is created within the cornea using laser scanning within approximately 10 seconds
STEP 2. Minimal Incision (2 mm)
A minimal incision of about 2 mm is made on the corneal surface
STEP 3. Lenticule Removal
The lenticule is gently separated and removed through the incision to correct vision
This process follows the same fundamental structure as SMILE LASIK, but with enhanced precision and stability at each step.
In general, SMILE Pro may be considered in the following cases:
Patients with thinner corneas
Patients with high myopia
Patients who require more precise astigmatism correction
However, conventional SMILE LASIK is also a well-established procedure with over 8 million cases performed worldwide, offering proven safety and reliability.
For patients who do not require highly advanced technology or who prioritize cost-effectiveness, SMILE LASIK may still be a suitable option.
Our ophthalmologists have over 25 years of experience in refractive eye surgery, providing treatment based on accumulated clinical data and surgical expertise.
Each patient undergoes a detailed eye examination, including corneal thickness, shape, and visual axis analysis. Based on these results, a personalized treatment plan is developed to ensure safe and precise vision correction.
We utilize advanced laser platforms, including the ZEISS VisuMax system, to perform SMILE LASIK and SMILE Pro with improved precision and stability.
Our approach prioritizes surgical safety, accurate correction, and long-term visual stability, helping patients achieve consistent and reliable results.
Compared to many Western countries, Korea offers high-quality vision correction at relatively reasonable costs, allowing patients to access advanced treatment without excessive financial burden.
iPlus Eye Clinic has experience treating international patients traveling to Korea for vision correction. English consultation and support services are available to ensure clear communication and a smooth treatment process.
This section allows you to explore real SMILE Pro reviews from patients who have undergone vision correction at EYEPLUS Eye Clinic.
Reading patient experiences can help you better understand the overall process, including surgery, recovery, and visual outcomes.
At EYEPLUS, you can review authentic patient stories and recovery experiences to gain practical insight before making your decision.
You can check honest reviews and recovery experiences from patients who underwent SMILE surgery at EYEPLUS Eye Clinic.
SMILE Pro is based on the same SMILE surgical concept but uses newer technology, including the ZEISS VisuMax 800 platform. This allows faster laser treatment and a more efficient surgical workflow. However, the most suitable option depends on each patient’s eye condition.
The laser treatment itself typically takes about 8–10 seconds per eye with the VisuMax 800 system. The overall procedure takes longer due to preparation, positioning, and post-treatment steps.
Both SMILE LASIK and SMILE Pro generally offer relatively fast recovery. However, recovery speed may vary depending on individual healing response and eye condition.
SMILE procedures are commonly recommended for patients with myopia or myopia with astigmatism and stable vision. A comprehensive eye examination is required to determine eligibility.
The most suitable vision correction procedure may vary depending on each individual’s eye condition, therefore a comprehensive eye examination is necessary.
SMILE procedures are typically performed under topical anesthesia (eye drops), so most patients experience minimal discomfort during surgery. Some mild discomfort or dryness may occur temporarily after the procedure.
Many international patients are able to travel shortly after surgery. However, it is generally recommended to complete at least a next-day check-up before traveling.
Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a short period after surgery. However, activities that strain the eyes or involve physical impact should be limited for a certain period.
Yes, SMILE surgery can correct astigmatism as well as myopia. Advanced systems like SMILE Pro may provide more precise astigmatism correction through improved alignment technology.
SMILE surgery is designed to provide long-term vision correction. However, natural changes in vision may still occur over time due to aging or other factors.
Yes, many clinics in Korea provide SMILE LASIK and SMILE Pro for international patients. English consultation and support services are typically available, and eligibility can be determined through examination after arrival.
