Key Q&A Points About SMILE Pro (1)

With advancements in modern medicine and technology, vision correction surgeries have become safer and more reliable, with shorter recovery times. As a result, an increasing number of people are considering undergoing vision correction procedures. In particular, SMILE PRO — a technological evolution of the traditional SMILE procedure — has been gaining attention, sparking greater interest and curiosity.

Today, we’ll take a closer look at some of the frequently asked questions about SMILE Pro.

Q1. With various manufacturers now offering femtosecond laser-based lenticule extraction methods for vision correction, is there a reason to choose SMILE Pro?

When discussing vision correction surgery, terms like “4th generation” or “5th generation” are often used. To understand these properly, it’s essential to review the development of vision correction procedures. Starting from 1st-generation LASEK, evolving into 2nd-generation LASIK, and advancing to 3rd-generation SMILE, the progression of modern vision correction techniques has been well-documented.

These procedures primarily focus on reshaping the corneal stroma, and the methods are categorized based on how the corneal epithelium is treated.

▲ Visual Materials Explaining the Femtosecond Laser Method for Lenticule Extraction

The method of directly correcting the corneal stroma without removing the corneal epithelium by utilizing femtosecond laser technology is classified as 3rd-generation vision correction surgery. The representative procedure for this method is SMILE, which is based on the lenticule extraction technique.

In simple terms, surgeries like SMILE, which employ the lenticule extraction method, all use the same femtosecond laser technology and thus fall under 3rd-generation vision correction surgery. Therefore, categorizing such procedures as a new generation is not appropriate.

SMILE Pro is a vision correction surgery performed using the same method as SMILE. However, it benefits from SMILE’s extensive clinical experience and data, making the procedure even more stable and reliable. Lastly, it is crucial to note that lenticule extraction-based vision correction surgeries are exclusively performed using the VisuMax equipment by ZEISS. Be sure to consider this when choosing a vision correction procedure.

Q2. There are claims that SMILE equipment has low suction pressure, leading to more suction loss. Is SMILE Pro a safe procedure?

▲ Actual Image of Suction Loss Occurring During Vision Correction Surgery

First, let’s begin by explaining what “suction loss” means.

Suction loss refers to the phenomenon where the suction pressure that holds the eye steady during the procedure is released. This occurs after the eye is gently pressed by the fixation device to stabilize it. Suction loss typically happens during the later stages of laser application, around 25 to 28 seconds into the process.

However, with SMILE Pro, the procedure duration is significantly shortened to just 8–10 seconds, making the likelihood of suction loss almost nonexistent. This reduction in laser exposure time allows patients to comfortably and stably focus on the laser, thereby greatly minimizing risks during surgery.

When considering vision correction surgery, the stability of the procedure is far more important than concerns about suction loss. Excessive suction pressure from the fixation device can lead to prolonged intraocular pressure elevation, which may negatively affect vision.

SMILE Pro employs advanced scanning technology to maintain optimal pressure while precisely cutting only the corneal stroma. This technical superiority reduces the margin for error during surgery and enhances overall stability. It is highly recommended that you take these factors into account when choosing a vision correction procedure.

When evaluating new vision correction equipment, it is essential not to focus solely on the fact that it represents the latest technology. Instead, thoroughly examine how long the technology has been researched, what unique features and capabilities it offers, and whether its clinical safety and efficacy have been adequately validated.

VisuMax, the equipment used for SMILE Pro, has successfully performed over 10 million lenticule extraction surgeries worldwide and has received FDA approval based on extensive clinical data. FDA approval signifies that the technology has undergone rigorous evaluations for safety and effectiveness and is recognized as a trustworthy method in the field of ophthalmology.

Thank you for your time!

We hope this post has helped address any concerns or questions you may have about SMILE Pro.