I’m Lina, and this is the story of how my life changed at BGN Eye Clinic in Lotte Tower, Seoul.For years, I lived behind my contact lenses. As a hospital worker on night shifts, my eyes often felt dry and tired. I dreamed of a solution that would give me freedom, comfort, and clear vision. When I heard about SMILE Pro surgery, I knew it could be the answer.First Steps at BGN Eye ClinicWalking into the clinic, I felt both nervous and excited. The team welcomed me with warmth, and what impressed me most was how thorough and detailed the process was. Multiple tests were done to make sure I was the right candidate—not just to see if I could have the surgery, but to ensure it would truly be the best option for me.Even better, the clinic worked with my tight travel schedule. Since I was only in Korea for a short time, they arranged everything—from consultation to surgery—all in a single day.Care That Speaks Your LanguageAs an international patient, I was relieved to find staff who spoke fluent English. No confusion, no stress—just smooth communication. Every question I had, they answered with patience and clarity. I never felt alone in the process.The Surgery ItselfThe surgery was quick, and while lying under the laser felt a little strange, the doctors’ calm voices and reassuring words made all the difference. They truly understood what patients feel in those moments.A Recovery That Surprised MeWhat amazed me most was the recovery. Within just 4–5 hours, my vision began to clear. By the next morning, I was already back at the clinic for a follow-up, seeing the world with fresh eyes—literally.Why I’m GratefulLooking back, I’m thankful I trusted BGN Eye Clinic with this life-changing decision. They combined world-class technology, expert care, and genuine kindness, making my journey smooth from start to finish.Today, I no longer worry about dry eyes from long shifts or fumbling with contact lenses. Instead, I wake up every morning with clear vision—and a smile.📞 Tel: 010-3435-5770 (KakaoTalk, WhatsApp available) 📧 Email: info@bgneyeclinic.comWebsite: bgneyeclinic.com Address: Lotte World Tower, 11th Floor, 300 Olympic Road, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Korea#SMILEPro #LaserEyeSurgery #VisionCorrection #ClearVision #EyeSurgery #MyopiaTreatment #AstigmatismCorrection #NoMoreGlasses #NoMoreContacts #EyeCare #BGNEyeClinic #ZeissTechnology #SeoulEyeClinic #ExpertSurgeons #InternationalPatients #MedicalTourismKorea #SafeEyeSurgery

For many people who have lived with glasses or contact lenses, the idea of waking up and seeing clearly without assistance feels like a dream. Over the past two decades, that dream has become reality for millions thanks to vision correction surgery. Among the most advanced procedures available today, LASIK and SMILE Pro are the two leading choices.But which one is right for you? And why are so many patients from around the world traveling to Seoul, South Korea to have these surgeries performed? Let’s take a deep dive into both procedures, compare their benefits, and explore why Korea has become one of the global leaders in refractive surgery.The Evolution of Vision CorrectionWhen LASIK first became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s, it revolutionized the field of ophthalmology. Suddenly, patients who had relied on thick glasses or daily contact lenses could regain clear, natural vision in just a matter of minutes.But technology doesn’t stand still. While LASIK remained the “gold standard” for years, new innovations emerged to make surgery less invasive, more precise, and even more comfortable. That’s where SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), and now its newest generation SMILE Pro, enter the picture.Understanding how these procedures work — and how they differ — is the first step to making an informed decision.LASIK: The Established ClassicLASIK stands for Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis. Though the name sounds complex, the process is straightforward:A thin flap is created on the corneal surface.An excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to correct the refractive error.The flap is carefully repositioned and allowed to heal.Advantages of LASIKFast recovery: Many patients achieve near-perfect vision within 24–48 hours.Proven track record: More than 30 million people worldwide have undergone LASIK.Availability: Nearly every eye clinic offering refractive surgery provides LASIK, making it accessible.ConsiderationsBecause a corneal flap is created, patients may experience slightly higher risks of flap-related complications (though rare with modern techniques).Some patients report dryness or glare during recovery, which can last for several weeks.LASIK remains a reliable, time-tested option, especially for those with moderate prescriptions and good corneal thicknessSMILE Pro: The Next GenerationSMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) was introduced as a flap-free alternative to LASIK. Instead of creating a large flap, SMILE uses a femtosecond laser to create a tiny, lens-shaped piece of tissue inside the cornea, known as a lenticule.In the SMILE Pro procedure:The ZEISS VisuMax 800 laser creates a lenticule within the cornea.This lenticule is removed through a micro-incision of just 2 mm.No large flap is required, leaving most of the corneal structure intact.Advantages of SMILE ProMinimally invasive: Preserves more corneal integrity and biomechanics.Lower risk of dry eyes: Because fewer corneal nerves are disrupted.Quick comfort: Patients often report less discomfort during recovery compared to LASIK.Precision with new technology: The ZEISS VisuMax 800 allows faster, more accurate laser application, shortening surgery time.ConsiderationsAvailability: Not every clinic offers SMILE Pro — it requires specialized ZEISS technology.Candidacy: Some patients, such as those with extremely thin corneas or certain prescriptions, may not be ideal candidates.SMILE Pro has quickly become the preferred choice for patients seeking cutting-edge, minimally invasive surgery with a smoother recovery experience.#SMILEPro #LASIK #VisionCorrection #EyeSurgery #Seoul #Korea #RefractiveSurgery #ZEISS #MedicalTourism #BetterVision📞 Tel: 010-3435-5770 (KakaoTalk, WhatsApp available) 📧 Email: info@bgneyeclinic.comWebsite: bgneyeclinic.com Address: Lotte World Tower, 11th Floor, 300 Olympic Road, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Korea

When people start thinking about vision correction surgery, one of the first questions they type into Google is simple: “Am I the right age?”Some wonder if they’re too young — rushing into surgery before their eyes are ready. Others worry they’ve missed the window — that their 40s or 50s might be too late. With so much information (and misinformation) online, it’s easy to feel confused. Here, we’ll explore how age really affects candidacy for SMILE surgery, what eye doctors consider before recommending it, and what options exist if SMILE isn’t the best fit for your age.Why Age Matters in Vision CorrectionUnlike buying glasses, eye surgery is a once-in-a-lifetime decision that permanently reshapes the cornea. That’s why surgeons carefully consider whether your vision has stabilized. Too young? Your prescription may still be changing, which increases the risk of regression (your eyes returning to nearsightedness after surgery). Too old? Your eyes may develop other conditions like presbyopia (age-related near vision loss) or cataracts, which require different treatments. Age itself isn’t the only factor — but it’s often the first clue for doctors when deciding if a patient is ready.The Ideal Age Range: 20s to 30sMost ophthalmologists recommend having SMILE surgery between your early 20s and late 30s. By your early 20s, your prescription usually stabilizes, meaning your vision won’t shift dramatically year to year. In your 20s and 30s, your cornea is typically healthy and strong, and your eyes haven’t yet developed age-related changes. Patients in this range often recover fastest and enjoy the longest-lasting results.This is why many young professionals, college students, and even athletes choose SMILE during this stage of life.What If You’re in Your Late Teens?It can be tempting to get rid of glasses right after high school. But most surgeons hesitate to perform SMILE on patients under 20. Prescriptions often aren’t stable yet. If your vision is still changing, surgery could correct today’s prescription but leave you needing glasses again in just a few years. Exceptions exist for very stable prescriptions, but most clinics recommend waiting until your early 20s. Think of it this way: SMILE is a long-term investment. Waiting a year or two until your eyes settle ensures the best outcome.What About Your 40s?This is the decade when the conversation about SMILE becomes more complex. Technically, many people in their 40s may still qualify — their corneas are healthy, and their prescriptions are stable. However, most eye surgeons approach SMILE with caution in this age group.The reason is presbyopia, the natural change that makes it harder to focus on near objects. It typically begins in the early to mid-40s and progresses gradually. Even if SMILE corrects your distance vision perfectly, it cannot stop presbyopia — meaning you may still need reading glasses shortly after surgery.Because of this, many doctors don’t recommend SMILE as the first choice once you’re in your 40s. Instead, they might discuss: Blended vision options (one eye corrected for distance, the other slightly for near). Lens-based solutions such as presbyopia-correcting or multifocal intraocular lenses, which can address both distance and near vision needs. In short: if you’re in your 40s, SMILE can sometimes help, but surgeons will usually guide you toward alternatives that better match the reality of age-related changesThat’s why, if you’re considering surgery, it’s far better to do it before 40. Life is only lived once — and being free from glasses can mean a better quality of life every single day. With advanced technology like SMILE Pro and the ZEISS VisuMax 800, the opportunity for safe, precise, and long-lasting vision correction is here. The best next step is a comprehensive eye exam to see if now is your time to enjoy clear vision.#VisionCorrection #ClearVision #EyeHealth #BetterVision #LifeWithoutGlasses #SMILEsurgery #SMILEPro #LASIK #LaserEyeSurgery #RefractiveSurgery #ZEISSVisuMax #SMILEsurgery #SMILEPro #LASIK #LaserEyeSurgery #RefractiveSurgery #ZEISSVisuMax  #SeoulEyeSurgery #KoreaMedicalTourism #EyeSurgeryKorea 📞 Tel: 010-3435-5770 (KakaoTalk, WhatsApp available) 📧 Email: info@bgneyeclinic.comWebsite: bgneyeclinic.com Address: Lotte World Tower, 11th Floor, 300 Olympic Road, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Korea

SMILE is a minimally invasive vision correction procedure that causes less pain and allows for faster recovery, making it a popular choice for many patients.However, no matter how precise and safe the surgery itself is, if proper post-operative care is not followed, recovery may be delayed, and in rare cases, unexpected discomfort may occur.The true completion of SMILE surgery begins not in the operating room but in the recovery process that follows. In this article, we will clearly outline the essential post-operative care guidelines as advised by BGN Eye Clinic in Jamsil.It's no exaggeration to say that the true success of SMILE starts after the surgery. Right after the procedure, the eyes are extremely sensitive to external stimuli, so your recovery environment and habits have a significant impact on your visual outcome and long-term prognosis.On the day of surgery, it is best to minimize eye use. While most patients begin to see to some extent immediately after the procedure, temporary blurriness, glare, and foreign body sensation may be present.These symptoms are part of the natural healing process and are usually not a cause for concern. However, it is crucial to avoid rubbing your eyes or squeezing them shut. When going outside, wear protective glasses to shield your eyes from wind and dust.One of the most important aspects of post-SMILE care is the correct use of prescribed eye drops. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drops, and artificial tears should be used regularly at designated intervals. Always wash your hands thoroughly before applying the drops.When using more than one type of eye drop, wait at least five minutes between applications. Also, be careful not to let the tip of the eye drop bottle touch your eyes, as this could contaminate the solution.Washing your face or taking a shower should be done with caution for at least two to three days after surgery. Direct contact with water can negatively affect the healing of the cornea. During this time, gently wipe your face with a warm damp towel instead. When washing your hair, tilt your head back to prevent water from flowing into your eyes. Avoid eye makeup and cleansing products for at least a week.Lifestyle adjustments also play a vital role in post-SMILE recovery. Avoid tasks that strain your eyes, especially prolonged use of smartphones or computers. If screen time is necessary, follow the 20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.Keep indoor lighting moderate—avoid overly bright or dim settings. Indirect lighting that reduces glare is preferred.You should return to the clinic for your first follow-up exam the day after surgery. Additional follow-ups are typically scheduled at one week, one month, three months, and six months to monitor your vision and corneal health.During this period, some patients may experience temporary fluctuations in vision, blurred sight, or glare at night. These are usually normal signs of healing, but if symptoms become severe or persistent, consult your clinic for a proper diagnosis.An important point to note is that post-surgery, corneal sensitivity may temporarily decrease, making it easy to overlook dryness or foreign body sensations. This is a time when dry eye syndrome may develop or worsen, so it is essential to use artificial tears consistently. Maintain adequate indoor humidity and avoid direct exposure to heaters or air conditioners.Driving is usually allowed starting the day after surgery, but since recovery varies from person to person, it’s best to refrain for a few days if you experience blurred vision or eye fatigue.Night driving, in particular, can increase glare in the early recovery phase. Begin with daytime driving and wait until your eyes are fully adjusted before driving at night.If you experience discomfort after surgery—such as sudden vision loss, intense pain, redness, or increased eye discharge—do not attempt to treat it yourself.Contact the clinic immediately for proper medical attention.Some patients may stop using their prescribed drops or change their schedule based on personal judgment. This can negatively impact recovery. All treatments should be guided by medical professionals, and any concerns should be addressed through direct communication with your clinic.Although SMILE generally offers a fast recovery, that doesn’t mean your vision will stabilize without effort. The cornea is a very delicate tissue, and after surgery, it can react sensitively to external stimuli and environmental changes. Habits like rubbing your eyes, sleeping face down, or exposure to hot and humid conditions can cause micro-damage and should be consciously avoided.At BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil, we monitor each patient's recovery closely. If needed, we adjust medications, offer lifestyle coaching, and promptly address any discomfort during recovery.On the day of surgery, a dedicated coordinator will provide detailed instructions and precautions. At each follow-up visit, we not only assess your surgical outcome but also track specific symptoms such as dry eye and glare to ensure comprehensive recovery.Ultimately, no matter how advanced the surgical technology or techniques may be, the real measure of success lies in how well the patient adheres to post-operative care. Just as pre-surgical consultations are crucial, following post-operative guidelines and maintaining open communication with your clinic are the wisest ways to ensure a safe and satisfying recovery.To go beyond a successful surgery and achieve a satisfying outcome with safe recovery, everything begins with proper care—from this moment forward.BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil is committed to guiding and caring for each patient before and after surgery, ensuring both eye health and quality of life.

If you're considering vision correction surgery, you've probably asked yourself at some point:“Would LASEK be better, or should I go with SMILE?”Both procedures are effective in restoring vision, but they differ significantly in surgical technique, recovery speed, pain level, and suitability for different patients.Choosing the right procedure for your eyes is the most important factor.Today at BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil, we’ll clearly and practically compare SMILE and LASEK to help you understand their differences.LASEK involves removing the corneal epithelium using alcohol and reshaping the cornea with an excimer laser. It requires time for the epithelium to regenerate and is often accompanied by significant pain immediately after surgery.SMILE, on the other hand, is a more recent laser procedure that removes a lenticule of corneal tissue through a micro-incision (about 2–4mm) without cutting the cornea broadly. Because the incision is smaller than with LASIK or LASEK, it typically offers faster recovery and less discomfort.LASEK can cause considerable discomfort for the first 2–3 days after surgery, and vision may be unstable during the epithelial regeneration phase. It often takes two weeks to a month or more to achieve fully restored vision.With SMILE, vision generally begins to improve on the day of or the day after surgery, and pain is minimal or nonexistent. Most patients can return to their daily routines within 2–3 days, making it popular among office workers and students.Postoperative Side Effects and SafetyLASEK may involve inflammation, haze, and temporary visual decline during healing, with increased dryness as a common complaint. However, because it involves less corneal cutting, it's considered relatively safe.SMILE creates no corneal flap, which makes the eye more resistant to trauma and reduces the likelihood of dry eye syndrome. It also tends to cause fewer night vision issues, such as halos or glare, than traditional LASIK.That said, SMILE may not be suitable for those with extremely thin corneas or very high myopia, so detailed diagnostic exams are necessary to determine eligibility.Who Is It For?LASEK is often recommended for individuals with thin corneas, high myopia, or those engaged in high-impact sports. It’s also suitable for those prioritizing long-term eye health, thanks to its excellent safety profile.Cost DifferencesThe cost of surgery can vary depending on the clinic, technology, scope of exams, and surgeon’s experience. In general, LASEK tends to be more affordable than SMILE.However, a higher price doesn’t necessarily mean better, nor does a lower price mean worse. There’s a best-fit procedure for each person, and that’s what matters most. We also provide structured postoperative care programs tailored to your recovery process.How to Choose the Right Surgery for YouBoth SMILE and LASEK have their pros and cons. Instead of basing your decision solely on which is newer or cheaper, it's wiser to consider your eye condition, lifestyle, and preferred recovery timeline.At BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil, we utilize state-of-the-art equipment such as ZEISS VisuMax for both SMILE and LASEK, ensuring precision and safety. Through thorough consultations, our medical team helps each patient choose the most suitable procedure.Vision correction surgery isn’t just about seeing better—it’s a life-changing decision that impacts your long-term quality of life. You only have one pair of eyes, so it’s essential to be well-informed and choose carefully.At BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil, we base our approach on accurate diagnostics and personalized consultation to perform safe and effective vision correction surgeries tailored to each individual.Whether you choose SMILE or LASEK, we hope you enjoy clearer vision and a more comfortable daily life with the procedure best suited to your eyes.

How long does SMILE LASIK recovery take?One of the most common questions from people considering vision correction surgery is: “How soon can I return to my normal daily life after surgery?”Many people these days choose SMILE LASIK because it’s known for its fast recovery, but not everyone is fully aware of the process and how much time it actually takes.Today, I’ll walk you through the recovery timeline of SMILE surgery, based on frequently asked questions from real patients.Is it true that SMILE LASIK has a faster recovery time? To answer upfront—yes, that’s true.Unlike traditional LASIK or LASEK, SMILE does not involve cutting a corneal flap. Instead, it uses a tiny 2–4 mm incision to remove a portion of the corneal stroma, preserving more of the eye’s natural structure while still providing precise vision correction.Because this approach minimizes corneal damage, patients typically experience less pain and recover more quickly. However, like any surgical procedure, SMILE also requires a recovery process— and since the eyes are especially delicate, careful post-op care is essential.On the day of surgery, your vision may still be blurry, and you might feel some stinging or foreign body sensation. Some people become sensitive to light or find it uncomfortable to open their eyes fully. However, most symptoms improve significantly after about 3 to 6 hours of rest.It’s best to keep your eyes closed and get plenty of rest immediately after surgery. Avoid activities that strain your eyes, such as watching TV, using your phone, or reading. Also, be careful not to touch or rub your eyes.The day after surgery, many patients notice a big improvement. Most say, “Wow, I can see much better than yesterday!”In fact, vision typically recovers quickly by the next day, and you’ll be able to carry out daily activities without major inconvenience. Returning to work or going outside is usually fine, and you can use a computer or move around short distances.That said, full recovery is not yet complete. You should still avoid prolonged reading or screen time. You might feel eye fatigue or experience slight blurriness and dryness.After about one week, most discomfort disappears and your vision becomes stable. At this point, light exercise or outdoor activities are generally okay, and you can manage basic hygiene like washing your face or taking a shower. However, you should still avoid getting water directly into your eyes. Wearing contact lenses, going to swimming pools or saunas, and visiting beauty salons should also be avoided for at least 2 to 3 weeks.By around one month, most patients recover vision of 1.0 or better, and night vision issues like glare or halos significantly diminish. You’ll be able to drive long distances and do detailed tasks comfortably. Eye fatigue also improves over time.However, recovery speed varies from person to person. Those with pre-existing dry eye or long-term contact lens wear may need more time. In such cases, artificial tears or prescribed medication can help manage symptoms and support recovery.Even though SMILE surgery has a fast recovery time, some factors can delay or interfere with healing.The most common issues are: using your eyes too soon after surgery, rubbing your eyes, or failing to apply prescribed eye drops.Because the eyes are highly sensitive, even small actions can affect the healing process— especially in the early stages of recovery.So for the first 2 to 3 days after surgery, it's crucial to be cautious and follow your doctor’s instructions. Use artificial tears and antibiotic drops exactly as prescribed.Regular post-op checkups are also essential. Visits are typically scheduled for the day after surgery, one week later, then one month, three months, and six months afterward. These follow-ups help monitor vision progress and detect any issues early.In the early stages, vision can fluctuate rapidly— so your doctor may need to check if changes are within normal range and adjust treatment if necessary.To summarize, SMILE LASIK offers fast recovery and minimal discomfort. Most people can return to daily life the next day, and enjoy stable vision within a month.However, achieving such a smooth recovery requires: a detailed pre-operative exam, thorough post-op care, and regular communication with your eye doctor.The period after surgery is even more important than the procedure itself.At BGN Eye Clinic, we’ll support your eye health every step of the way— from surgery to recovery and ongoing care. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us anytime.For a clearer, brighter daily life, we’re here and ready for you.

‘ICL Lens Implantation’: When Is It Most Effective?When people think of vision correction, LASIK or LASEK usually comes to mind. However, for those with thin corneas, high myopia, or those who frequently engage in activities with high risk of impact, other options may be more suitable.One of those options is implantable lens surgery. As the name suggests, this procedure involves placing a special corrective lens inside the eye to improve vision. Although it resembles cataract surgery in technique, it differs in that the natural lens remains untouched, and the implant is placed in front of or behind it.Currently, the most commonly used method is posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens implantation, especially the ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens). This lens is made of a biocompatible material called collamer, which allows it to remain stable in the eye without causing discomfort.Who is a good candidate for ICL surgery?ICL surgery can be a highly effective choice for:1) High myopia: Because LASIK and LASEK involve reshaping the cornea, they can become risky when correcting large refractive errors, as more corneal tissue must be removed. ICL can be a safer option in such cases.2) Thin corneas: Patients with thin corneas may not qualify for laser-based surgeries. Since ICL surgery does not involve corneal removal, it may be more appropriate.3) Severe dry eye: Laser surgeries can temporarily worsen dry eye by affecting corneal nerves. ICL surgery minimizes this risk.4) Jobs or sports with high risk of trauma: For those in physically demanding fields—such as military personnel or contact sports athletes—ICL, which doesn't involve cutting the cornea, may offer greater safety.That said, simply meeting one of the above criteria does not automatically mean ICL is the right choice. As always, the most important step is to undergo a comprehensive exam and consult with a specialist to determine the best method for your eye condition and lifestyle.The ICL procedureLike other types of vision correction surgery, the first step is a thorough preoperative exam. This includes measurements of corneal thickness, anterior chamber depth, iris structure, and lens positioning.Next, a custom lens is ordered based on your unique eye parameters, including prescription, size, and curvature. This step may take 1–2 weeks.Once the lens is ready, you'll prepare for surgery by resting your eyes and following the preoperative care instructions.Under local anesthesia, a 2–3 mm incision is made on the edge of the cornea, and the folded lens is inserted and positioned inside the eye. Because the incision is very small, no sutures are typically required, and recovery is quick.Vision usually improves within hours after surgery. Patients use prescribed eye drops and attend follow-up appointments to monitor for any complications during recovery.What are the benefits of ICL surgery?ICL is not merely a fallback option for those who can’t undergo LASIK or LASEK—it is a fundamentally strong procedure with several advantages.The biggest benefit is that it does not involve cutting the cornea. This helps maintain the structural integrity of the cornea, contributing to long-term safety.Also, the lens can be removed or replaced later, offering flexibility.ICL provides excellent correction for high myopia and helps preserve night vision and contrast sensitivity. Since it does not affect the corneal nerves, dry eye symptoms are rare post-surgery.Of course, like any surgery, ICL has points that require careful consideration.Accurate preoperative measurements are crucial. Rare complications like lens mispositioning or iris contact may occur. In extremely rare cases, lens placement may trigger cataracts, so routine monitoring is essential.Also, some patients may experience a temporary increase in intraocular pressure after the procedure, which requires careful observation in the first few days.A common concern is the cost. Since ICL involves custom-manufactured lenses, it is typically more expensive than LASIK or LASEK.However, ICL should not be viewed simply as an alternative. It is an advanced, premium vision correction procedure in its own right. Especially for patients with high myopia, thin corneas, or occupational needs, it may be the most ideal solution.At BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil, we conduct dozens of detailed tests before recommending any surgery, ensuring that you receive the safest and most appropriate option based on expert consultation.If you're seeking to enhance the quality of your visual life, ICL may be worth considering. Feel free to contact us with any questions.Thank you.

SMILE PRO vs SMILE LASIK: What’s the Difference?Vision correction technology has been advancing rapidly in recent years. SMILE LASIK emerged as an evolution of traditional LASIK and LASEK, and now, an upgraded version called SMILE PRO has been introduced, leading many to wonder about the differences between the two. However, just because a procedure uses newer equipment doesn’t automatically mean it’s better.Both surgeries are known for their excellent safety profiles and high precision, but they each have distinct advantages. That’s why it's important to choose the procedure that best suits your eye condition, based on accurate information.What is SMILE LASIK?SMILE LASIK differs from traditional LASIK or LASEK in that it doesn’t involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, it corrects vision by using a small 2–4 mm incision to remove a thin lenticule formed within the cornea. Since the incision is smaller, recovery is faster, pain is minimized, and the structural stability of the cornea is better preserved. For these reasons, SMILE LASIK is considered a procedure that overcomes the drawbacks of LASIK and LASEK.What is SMILE PRO?SMILE PRO is an upgraded version of SMILE LASIK that utilizes the latest technology from ZEISS—the VISUMAX 800—to achieve higher precision and speed. One of the most significant differences lies in the laser speed. While SMILE LASIK uses a 500kHz laser, SMILE PRO operates at 2MHz—almost four times faster.This results in a much shorter laser application time, reducing the entire procedure to under 10 seconds. That means fewer variables like patient anxiety or eye movement can affect the outcome. Another key advancement is in eye centration. Previous SMILE procedures required manual alignment, which could limit the precision of astigmatism correction.SMILE PRO, however, is equipped with CentraLign and OcuLign—automated centration alignment features that recognize the visual axis and even compensate for slight eye rotation when the patient lies on the surgical bed. Thanks to this technology, more accurate outcomes can be expected in complex cases like high astigmatism, compound astigmatism, or hyperopic astigmatism.Does that make SMILE LASIK a lesser option?Not at all. SMILE LASIK has already proven its safety and predictability through extensive clinical results and remains a standard procedure for correcting myopia and moderate astigmatism.From a medical standpoint, understanding the strengths of both SMILE LASIK and SMILE PRO is crucial to choosing the best procedure for each patient.For example, a patient in their 20s with good corneal health and a moderate prescription can expect excellent results with SMILE LASIK alone. Conversely, if a patient has high astigmatism, asymmetric corneal alignment, or needs fast recovery and precise correction—perhaps due to their occupation—SMILE PRO may be more suitable.Beyond cost and equipment: what’s best for you?Even if the surgical techniques seem similar, differences in technology can affect surgical efficiency and patient comfort during the procedure.SMILE PRO, being built on cutting-edge equipment, tends to be more expensive than SMILE LASIK.But what matters most is not just the price—it’s about identifying the surgerythat matches your eye condition, desired recovery speed, and lifestyle.In the end, SMILE and SMILE PRO aren’t necessarily better or worse than each other—they are distinct options that should be selected based on the patient’s eye characteristics, daily life, and degree of correction needed.Your doctor must consider more than just the surgical equipment—they should evaluate the corneal thickness, curvature, tear film, retina, and optic nerve through comprehensive tests to determine the safest and most effective method.Vision correction is a one-time procedure that can impact your eyesight for life. That’s why it’s crucial to make an informed decision through thorough testing and consultation. While technology keeps advancing, it’s the responsibility of the medical team to apply it precisely to each patient.Whether you choose SMILE or SMILE PRO, BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil strives to understand your eyes and lifestyle in the most personalized way. If you’re looking for a high-quality surgery backed by the expertise and skill developed through over 100,000 procedures, we invite you to visit BGN Eye Clinic for a consultation.