What is SMILE laser eye surgery?

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery that corrects short-sightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. It reshapes the cornea through a small keyhole incision without creating a corneal flap.

Who is a suitable candidate for SMILE?

SMILE is typically suitable for adults over the age of 18 with a stable prescription, healthy eyes, and myopia with or without astigmatism. A comprehensive eye examination is required to confirm suitability.

Can SMILE treat long-sightedness?

No. SMILE is primarily used to treat short-sightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Patients with long-sightedness (hyperopia) may be better suited to LASIK or lens replacement surgery.

No. Anaesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eyes before treatment, making the procedure virtually painless. Mild irritation or a gritty sensation may be experienced for a short time afterwards.

How long does the procedure take?

SMILE usually takes around 10–15 minutes per eye, with the laser itself working for only a few seconds.

How soon will my vision improve?

Many patients notice improved vision within the first 24–48 hours, although vision continues to stabilise over the following weeks as the eyes heal.

Will I experience dry eyes after SMILE?

Temporary dry eyes can occur after any laser eye surgery, but SMILE generally causes less disruption to the corneal nerves than LASIK, which may reduce the likelihood or severity of dry eye symptoms.

Can both eyes be treated on the same day?

Yes. SMILE is routinely performed on both eyes during the same appointment, allowing both eyes to recover together.

Is SMILE safer than LASIK?

Both SMILE and LASIK are safe and highly effective when performed on suitable candidates. SMILE offers the advantage of a flap-free procedure and may reduce the risk of flap-related complications and post-operative dry eye, while LASIK can treat a wider range of prescriptions. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate option based on your eyes and prescription.

SMILE Laser Surgery in Turkey

SMILE laser eye surgery corrects nearsightedness and astigmatism through a small keyhole incision without creating a corneal flap, with most patients experiencing noticeably clearer vision within the first few days.

Most patients can fly home 1–3 days after SMILE laser eye surgery. Vision typically improves within the first few days, with further stabilisation over the following weeks as the eye heals.

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THE PROCEDURE

What is SMILE laser surgery?

SMILE laser eye surgery corrects common refractive errors by reshaping the cornea through a minimally invasive keyhole technique, allowing light to focus correctly on the retina for clearer vision.

Unlike glasses or contact lenses, which temporarily compensate for vision problems, SMILE addresses the underlying cause of short-sightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Instead of creating a corneal flap, a femtosecond laser creates a small disc of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea, which is removed through a tiny incision. This reshapes the cornea while preserving more of its natural structure, offering effective vision correction with a reduced risk of flap-related complications.

At Revitalize in Turkey, every SMILE laser eye treatment is carefully planned around your eye health, prescription, and visual goals. Our experienced ophthalmic surgeons use advanced femtosecond laser technology and comprehensive pre-operative assessments to confirm your suitability, delivering excellent visual outcomes alongside the exceptional value and personalised care that have made Turkey a leading destination for eye treatment.

Board Certified Surgeons

Internationally accredited specialists with thousands of procedures performed.

Professional Support

24/7 available support personnel to assist you with any of your needs.

All Inclusive Packages

Your package not only covers your treatment, but also support, accommodation, transfers and all your needs.

Not sure which laser eye surgery you need? Full candidacy criteria are covered on our main laser eye surgery page →

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ANSWERS

Frequently asked questions

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The information provided by our company is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not provide medical services directly; instead, we facilitate connections between patients and fully accredited healthcare providers in Izmir. All medical procedures, consultations, and treatments are carried out solely by licensed physicians and medical institutions.

Individual results may vary, and all medical decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. We strongly recommend that you seek independent medical advice regarding any condition or treatment options before making a decision. Our company is not responsible for any medical outcomes, complications, or decisions made based on the information provided through our platform or services.

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SMILE Laser Surgery in Turkey

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Frequently asked questions