A Decade of Clearer Vision: 10 Years of SMILE Laser Eye Surgery

This year marks a remarkable milestone in vision correction, ten years of SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) laser eye surgery transforming lives and reshaping the future of ophthalmology.

First introduced as a gentler, flapless alternative to LASIK, SMILE has grown into a trusted and globally recognised procedure, with over 7 million eyes treated worldwide. At Auckland Eye, we’re proud to have been at the forefront of this evolution, offering patients access to the latest innovations in laser vision correction.

What Makes SMILE Different?

Unlike traditional LASIK, which involves creating a flap on the cornea, SMILE uses a minimally invasive technique to remove a tiny lenticule (a small disc-shaped piece of corneal tissue) through a keyhole incision, just 2–4mm wide. This approach preserves more of the cornea’s natural strength and reduces the risk of dry eye symptoms post-surgery.

A Decade of Benefits

Over the past 10 years, patients choosing SMILE have enjoyed:

• Faster recovery and minimal discomfort.
• High precision and safety with advanced femtosecond laser technology.
• Excellent outcomes for those with myopia (short-sightedness) and astigmatism.
• Fewer dry eye symptoms compared to LASIK.

Innovation Through the Years

The journey of SMILE hasn’t stopped. Today’s technology, like the ZEISS VISUMAX® 800 platform with SMILE Pro, offers even shorter treatment times, enhanced patient comfort, and expanded treatment options. In fact, recent advancements now make SMILE Pro a viable option for even more patients, including those who may not have qualified in the past.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to the future of vision correction. With continuous improvements in laser platforms and treatment algorithms, SMILE is not just a legacy of innovation, it’s a springboard for the next generation of eye care.

If you’ve been thinking about laser eye surgery, now is the perfect time to explore your options.

Click here to book a FREE laser assessment and discover whether SMILE Pro is right for you.