Treatment guide · Refractive eye surgery

SMILE Laser Eye Surgery

SMILE removes a small laser-created corneal lenticule through a keyhole incision to correct selected myopia and astigmatism.

Evidence-informed editorial guide · Medical review pending · Not personal medical advice
Typical procedure timeUsually minutes per eye.
AnaesthesiaTopical anaesthetic drops.
HospitalOutpatient laser centre.
Suggested Turkey stayOften 1–3 days.

The essentials

What is smile laser eye surgery?

Unlike LASIK, SMILE does not create a large corneal flap. Eligibility still depends on prescription, corneal mapping, eye surface health and the approved treatment range of the specific platform.

What it may aim to do

  • Reduce selected myopia and astigmatism
  • Avoid a LASIK-style flap
  • Improve unaided distance vision in suitable eyes

Is this treatment suitable for me?

A webpage cannot determine this safely. Suitability must be decided by the responsible specialist after reviewing your symptoms, examination, medical history, medicines and relevant tests. Our coordinator can help you prepare the right records, but does not make the clinical decision.

Request an assessment
01
Procedure and techniqueHow it may be performed and what to discuss
  • Femtosecond-laser lenticule creation
  • Small-incision lenticule extraction
  • Careful centration and postoperative refraction

The appropriate technique can only be selected after examination, clinical indication and informed consent.

02
Recovery and travelTypical milestones, Turkey stay and fit-to-fly decision
First days

Vision can be hazy or fluctuate.

Weeks 1–4

Clarity and contrast continue to settle.

Following months

Dryness and visual quality are monitored.

Planning your stay in Turkey

Often 1–3 days. This is a planning range. The treating team must confirm discharge and fitness to travel.

03
Price and inclusionsWhat may change the quotation
  • Complexity of the diagnosis and procedure
  • Specialist, anaesthesia and operating-facility fees
  • Implants, devices, imaging, pathology or laboratory requirements
  • Hospital nights, rehabilitation and follow-up schedule
  • Written policy for unexpected care, readmission or revision

Often included—confirm in writing

  • Named specialist and facility fees stated in the written quotation
  • Routine pre-operative tests specifically listed in advance
  • Procedure-related hospital charges and standard early follow-up
  • A written discharge, medication and urgent-contact plan

Often excluded—ask before paying

  • Flights, travel insurance and unrelated medical treatment unless stated
  • Additional imaging, pathology, implants or consultations not listed
  • Extra hotel or hospital nights and companion expenses unless included
  • Readmission, complication treatment or revision unless the policy states otherwise
04
Questions and answersFAQ and a short consultation checklist
Can suitability be confirmed remotely?

Records and imaging can support an initial opinion, but final eligibility and the treatment plan must be confirmed by the responsible specialist after an appropriate assessment.

When can I travel home?

Travel timing depends on the procedure, mobility, clot risk and early recovery. Only the treating team can confirm fitness to fly.

Ask the treating doctor

  • Why do you recommend this procedure for my case?
  • Who will perform the procedure, and where?
  • What should I expect during recovery?
  • What follow-up will I receive after I return home?
05
Sources and review statusReferences used for this general guide

These sources support general information only and do not replace advice based on your examination and history.

FDA — SMILE patient information
Last editorial update
24 September 2026
Medical reviewer
Pending appointment

Understand your smile laser eye surgery options

A coordinator can explain which medical records a specialist is likely to need and prepare a transparent comparison without promising suitability or results.

Ask a coordinator
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