SMILE® LASER EYE SURGERY
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY LASER VISION ASSESSMENT WITH DR LAHOOD AT ADELAIDE EYE AND LASER CENTRE WHERE HE CONSULTS, HIT THE BUTTON BELOW.
BOOK COMPLIMENTARY LASER VISION ASSESSMENTSMILE® IS THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE FOR LASER VISION CORRECTION
SMILE® laser eye surgery is minimally invasive, with rapid surgical recovery and healing time.
THE EXPECTED BENEFITS OF SMILE®LASER EYE SURGERY INCLUDE:
- Minimally invasive and gentle treatment
- Flapless – a laser cut lenticule is removed from the cornea without the need for a flap so there are no flap complications
- No noise or odor during the procedure
- Reduced risk and/or less incidence of dry eye during recovery
- Fast surgery time
- Day surgery so you are able to recover in the comfort of your own home
- Only one laser used in the procedure
- Rapid visual recovery
- Able to return to work and other activities quickly (24-48 hours depending on individual recovery).
What to Expect: SMILE® Laser Eye Surgery Procedure
SMILE laser eye surgery is a laser vision correction procedure performed as day surgery by Dr Ben LaHood, a specialist refractive ophthalmologist. The steps below outline what typically happens during the process for suitable patients.
Steps involved in SMILE laser eye surgery:
- A detailed consultation assesses your eye health to determine if it is a suitable treatment option for you.
- Eye scans and diagnostic testing are performed to measure the shape and thickness of the cornea and help guide the planned procedure steps.
- On surgery day, numbing eye drops are applied to minimise sensation and keep you comfortable during the surgery.
- A femtosecond laser creates a small lenticule within the cornea using a tiny incision, without requiring a flap.
- Dr Ben LaHood carefully removes the lenticule, which allows the cornea to reshape and supports improved vision for the patient.
- The laser procedure usually takes only a few minutes per eye and is completed while the patient remains comfortable.
- After the procedure, patients rest in the recovery suite before going home with clear written instructions and medications for post-operative care and guidance.
- Follow-up appointment is arranged for the following day to review healing progress and ensure recovery is proceeding as expected.
FAQ’s
How much does SMILE Pro laser eye surgery cost in Australia?
The cost of SMILE Pro laser eye surgery can vary based on individual circumstances. For a personalised estimate, we recommend discussing your specific needs during a consultation with Dr LaHood.
Is SMILE Pro better than LASIK?
Both SMILE Pro and LASIK are vision correction procedures, but they differ slightly. SMILE Pro is less invasive, involves a smaller incision, and no flap related complications. LASIK is more commonly used for a wider range of vision issues. The best option depends on your unique visual goals and eyes, which can be determined during a consultation.
How long is the recovery time?
SMILE Pro laser eye surgery offers a quick recovery time, allowing most people to return to work and daily activities within 24-48 hours, depending on their individual healing process.
What is the recovery time for SMILE laser eye surgery?
Recovery after SMILE is rapid. Most people notice clearer vision within 24–48 hours and are able to return to work and daily activities within 24-48 hours. You’ll have a follow-up appointment the next day to check your healing and vision.
Are there any risks of SMILE?
All surgery carries some risk. Because SMILE is flapless, the risk of flap-related issues seen with LASIK is avoided. Careful assessment before surgery ensures the treatment is suitable for your eyes and any risk explained clearly.
How does SMILE differ from LASIK and PRK?
The main difference is how the cornea is treated:
- SMILE uses a keyhole approach, removing a small lens-shaped piece of tissue through a tiny incision.
- LASIK creates a flap in the cornea that is lifted before reshaping the tissue with a laser.
- PRK reshapes the surface of the cornea without a flap.
Each procedure has unique benefits but both SMILE and LASIK offer rapid recovery, and PRK can be suitable for patients with thinner corneas. Your consultation will determine which is the best option for you.