SMILE Pro Laser Treatment: Suitability, Risks and Recovery
SMILE Pro is a form of small-incision laser vision correction used for selected refractive errors. Suitability depends on a full eye examination; it does not mean everyone can stop using glasses, and a particular visual result or recovery time cannot be promised.
Suitability assessment
The ophthalmologist should assess prescription stability, corneal shape and thickness, tear film, pupil size, eye health, medicines, pregnancy or feeding status, occupation and expectations. Another procedure, continued glasses or contact lenses may be more appropriate.
Potential benefits and limits
The procedure uses a small corneal incision and avoids creation of a LASIK flap. The method chosen should follow individual anatomy and evidence rather than claims that one laser technique is universally safer, painless or superior.
Risks and recovery
Risks include dry-eye symptoms, glare, halos, fluctuating or reduced vision, under- or over-correction, infection, inflammation, corneal complications and need for further treatment. Vision and comfort recover at different rates; driving and work should resume only after clinical advice and safe vision are confirmed.
See Revitalize’s SMILE laser surgery information, named doctors and assessment route.
Keep learning
Got more questions? We answer them every week
Short, practical videos on preparing for treatment, travelling and recovering, plus a community group where you can ask our team directly.
Travelling from South Africa?
Read SMILE Laser Eye Surgery in Turkey, written for patients flying from Johannesburg or Cape Town: the e-Visa, how long to stay in İzmir and what to arrange at home. Or see all guides for South African patients.