The same lenticule technique as SMILE, on a faster laser with better eye tracking. Laser time drops from about 23–30 seconds per eye to about 10 seconds.
You want the newest SMILE laser, not the previous generation.
You have astigmatism and want to know how well it can be corrected.
You worry about keeping your eye still during the laser.
What changes with SMILE Pro
SMILE and SMILE Pro are both lenticule-based procedures. The difference is the laser. SMILE Pro uses the VisuMax 800, with a faster femtosecond laser, enhanced eye-tracking and centration, and improved astigmatism correction.
Lenticule created in approximately 10 seconds per eye.
OcuLign and CentraLign functions guide precise laser placement.
Performed by a doctor with more than 10 years of SMILE experience.
Research from the clinic's doctors
Dr. Young Je Choi was selected as a Young SMILE LASIK Doctor at the 2025 ZEISS HORIZON APAC Ophthalmology Symposium and presented "Short-term clinical outcomes of hyperopia correction using the Visumax 800".
Dr. Hyun Chul Cheon shared clinical insights on SMILE and SMILE Pro at the ZEISS BEYOND event during ESCRS 2026 in London.
Is SMILE Pro right for you?
That is decided after a comprehensive exam. Corneal thickness, the tissue that can be safely removed, endothelial cell health, astigmatism and your lifestyle all matter. If SMILE is not suitable, LASEK or an ICL implant may be recommended.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SMILE and SMILE Pro?
Both SMILE and SMILE Pro are lenticule-based vision correction procedures. The primary difference lies in the laser technology used. SMILE Pro is performed using the VisuMax 800, which offers a faster femtosecond laser, enhanced eye-tracking and centration technology, and improved astigmatism correction capabilities. These advancements allow for greater precision, stability, and overall patient satisfaction.
How long does the procedure take?
SMILE involves creating a lenticule within the cornea using a femtosecond laser and then removing it through a small incision. The laser application time is approximately 23–30 seconds per eye. With the upgraded SMILE Pro, which uses the VisuMax 800, the same surgical technique is performed with improved laser performance. As a result, the laser treatment time is reduced to approximately 10 seconds per eye, allowing for a faster and more precise procedure.
What if I blink or move my eyes during surgery?
During all vision correction procedures, a device called a lid speculum is used to gently keep the eye open, preventing blinking. Eye movement is involuntary and cannot be fully controlled by the patient. To ensure accuracy, advanced laser systems are equipped with eye fixation and tracking technology (such as VisuMax fixation and Amaris Red eye-tracking systems), which monitor and compensate for eye movement in real time. In extremely rare cases where fixation is lost, the surgeon will determine whether to safely continue the procedure or convert to an alternative method such as LASEK, depending on the situation.
Which vision correction procedure is right for me?
Vision correction procedures include LASEK, LASIK, SMILE, and Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery. Each option differs based on how the cornea is treated. The best procedure is determined after a comprehensive eye examination, which evaluates factors such as corneal thickness, the amount of tissue that can be safely removed, corneal endothelial cell health, eye anatomy, astigmatism, and overall ocular condition. Your lifestyle and visual needs are also carefully considered before recommending the most appropriate treatment.
