SMILE Pro

The technology

Auckland Eye was one of the first clinics in New Zealand to bring in the next-generation Carl Zeiss Visumax-800 laser. This new laser machine represents a significant step forward from the previous model and is the only way to provide cutting-edge SMILE Pro treatment.

While the procedure has always been relatively quick and non-invasive, the new technology will make it even faster, more accurate and less stressful for our patients. The older version of the Visumax could create the incision in 25 seconds. Now it’s under 10 seconds.

The Visumax-800 uses digital mapping technology to orient the laser to the eye for precision targeting during treatment ensuring it is correctly oriented for optimal treatment.

Because the laser is so precise, it lets Auckland Eye offer SMILE treatment to a wider range of patients. People with astigmatism who previously needed treatment with Lasik can now access the less-invasive, more accurate SMILE Pro procedure.

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive procedure where a laser creates a lenticule (or disc shape) inside the cornea, which is removed through a tiny incision. This reshapes the cornea to optimise focus and sharpen vision.

The surgery

The cornea is made up of five layers, but SMILE Pro surgery focuses on the central layer, known as the stroma. During surgery, a computer-guided laser creates a precise lens-shaped disc (known as a lenticule) in the stroma. The shape of the lenticule is customised to correct the specific shape of your cornea. The laser then makes a tiny keyhole incision, and the lenticule is removed. When the process is complete, the cornea is shaped to optimise focus and sharpen vision long term.

Comfort and ease
The laser portion of the procedure is quick – it’s all over in under 10 seconds. The technology is also designed to ensure it’s an extremely comfortable procedure. Although everyone is different, recovery is quick – most people will be feeling great the very next day.

Proven technology
SMILE Pro uses femtosecond laser technology, which has been proven in the field of laser eye surgery a million times over. So while SMILE Pro is a new technique, the technology is proven, safe, and effective.

Recommended by the world’s top surgeons
Surgeons around the world have embraced SMILE Pro as an effective laser eye surgery procedure. Not only does it produce excellent visual results, the keyhole technique means there is minimal interference with corneal nerves, so recovery is rapid. Longer term, this may also help to avoid dry eye problems and preserve the strength of the cornea.

Recovery

Because SMILE Pro doesn’t create a larger incision or flap in the cornea, recovery is quick. You will need someone to drive you home following treatment, but you should be able to return to work and normal life after 24 to 36 hours.