SMILE Pro with the ZEISS VISUMAX 800: what the procedure involves

What SMILE Pro actually does

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) reshapes the cornea from within. A femtosecond laser creates a thin disc of tissue, called a lenticule, inside the intact cornea. The surgeon then removes that lenticule through a small side incision of a few millimetres. Because no corneal flap is created, the front surface of the cornea stays largely undisturbed.

At Perfect Vision the procedure is performed on the ZEISS VISUMAX 800, which delivers the lenticule pattern in a few seconds with cyclotorsion and centration control.

Who is generally considered

SMILE Pro is usually discussed for myopia and myopic astigmatism within the treatable range, with a stable spectacle power, adequate corneal thickness and a normal corneal tomography pattern. Age, tear film quality, pupil size and retinal health are also assessed.

Suitability is never confirmed from a spectacle prescription alone. Corneal tomography, pachymetry, cycloplegic refraction and a dilated retinal examination are part of every evaluation.

The day of the procedure

The eye is numbed with drops; no injection or general anaesthesia is used for routine cases. Laser time per eye is very short, though you should plan for a few hours at the centre overall for preparation, the procedure and post-operative instructions.

You will need someone to accompany you home. Vision is typically hazy for the first several hours.

Recovery and follow-up

Most patients notice functional vision the next day, with continued refinement over the following weeks. Lubricating and antibiotic-steroid drops are prescribed on a tapering schedule. Eye rubbing, swimming, dusty environments and contact sports are restricted for the period advised by your surgeon.

Follow-up is usually scheduled for the next day, the first week, and then at intervals decided by your recovery. Patients travelling from outside Jaipur can plan these visits in advance with the coordination desk.

Honest expectations

No refractive procedure can be guaranteed to produce a specific spectacle power. Halos or dryness can occur during the healing period, and a small number of eyes may need an enhancement later. These possibilities are discussed before you consent.