The Recovery Period, Pain, and Cost/Price of SMILE Laser Eye Surgery (2025)

1. What is SMILE Laser Eye Surgery?

SMILE LASIK (SMILE: Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a vision correction procedure that uses a laser to penetrate the corneal epithelium (surface) and precisely reshape the corneal stroma. A small, approximately 2mm incision is made to remove a lenticule.

Compared to traditional LASIK, SMILE reduces corneal damage to about one-tenth, minimizing pain, postoperative complications, and side effects. Due to its smaller incision, the procedure ensures greater precision and stability. SMILE LASIK can only be performed using the "VisuMax" laser system developed by Carl Zeiss, making it one of the most advanced vision correction surgeries available today.

One of the key advantages of SMILE LASIK is that it involves removing the corneal lenticule through a small incision, resulting in minimal pain and a remarkably fast recovery. Since there is no external exposure of the corneal stroma and minimal nerve damage and incision, the likelihood of corneal haze and dry eye syndrome is significantly reduced.

SMILE LASIK promotes rapid visual recovery and is an ideal option for modern individuals who are sensitive to pain and seek a quick return to daily activities.

2. Differences Between SMILE LASIK, LASIK, and LASEK

1) SMILE LASIK (SMILE Surgery)
SMILE LASIK is a vision correction procedure that uses a femtosecond laser to reshape the corneal stroma without creating or removing a corneal flap, unlike traditional LASIK or LASEK. Instead, it corrects vision through a minimal 2mm incision, making it the most advanced laser vision correction surgery available today.

2) LASIK
LASIK involves creating a corneal flap (a thin, hinged layer on the cornea) to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. This procedure requires a larger corneal incision of approximately 20-24mm, making it more prone to corneal damage, glare, dry eye syndrome, and other complications due to its flap-based approach.

3) LASEK
It is a surgery that corrects vision by removing the corneal epithelium (surface). Severe pain may occur after the surgery, and it has the limitation of a much longer recovery period compared to other procedures.

The biggest difference between SMILE LASIK and LASIK/LASEK lies in the extent of the corneal incision. LASIK/LASEK involve creating a flap or cutting the surface of the cornea, which inevitably causes more damage to the corneal epithelium. This increases the risk of infection, dry eyes, and keratoconus. In contrast, SMILE LASIK is a procedure that minimizes these side effects and complications.

3. SMILE Laser Eye Surgery

Dr. Jeong Eui-Sang, the head doctor of SNU Eye Center, played a pivotal role in bringing SMILE LASIK to South Korea. Before its introduction in the country, he visited Carl Zeiss headquarters in Germany to observe the production process of the VisuMax laser system and hold discussions with the company’s executives.

At the request of Carl Zeiss, the developer of SMILE LASIK, Dr. Jeong was selected as one of the 11 international SMILE research ophthalmologists, representing South Korea in the initial clinical studies. As a result of his contributions, he successfully introduced SMILE LASIK to Korea in May 2011 and became the first doctor in the country to perform the surgery.

4. SMILE LASIK Q&A by SNU Eye Center

Q1) Is it really possible to return to daily life just one day after SMILE LASIK?
A1) Yes! As mentioned earlier, SMILE LASIK is performed using a femtosecond laser to reshape the corneal stroma through a small incision, leading to an exceptionally fast recovery. However, activities that may cause strong impact or irritation to the eyes should be avoided. Basic daily activities, including showering and light makeup, are generally allowed.

Q2) How long does the surgery take?
A2) The procedure takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes for both eyes.

Q3) When can I dye my hair, get beauty treatments, or drink alcohol after SMILE LASIK?
A3) It is recommended to avoid these activities for at least two weeks.

Q4) Will there be severe pain after the surgery?
A4) Pain levels vary by individual, but for the first 4 to 6 hours after surgery, patients may experience stinging, discomfort, or a foreign body sensation. However, most severe symptoms usually subside within 24 hours.

Q5) Are there any precautions or restrictions on the day of surgery?
A5) Since SMILE LASIK is performed while lying down, avoid wearing clothing that restricts head and neck movement, such as hoodies. Additionally, makeup, sunscreen, and perfume should not be used on the day of surgery.