Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

SMILE Pro Laser Vision Correction in Seomyeon, Busan

SMILE Pro is a flapless laser vision correction in which a femtosecond laser creates a thin lens-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) inside the cornea, which is removed through a small incision of a few millimetres. In Seomyeon, eye clinics typically run a full screening first; the laser stage takes under a minute per eye, and most patients see well enough for daily tasks within a day or two.

Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:

October 2026
Clinic in Seomyeon, Busan

What is SMILE Pro?

SMILE stands for small incision lenticule extraction (스마일라식). A femtosecond laser cuts a precise disc of tissue within the cornea; the surgeon then removes it through a small side incision, changing the cornea's curvature. SMILE Pro is the version performed on Zeiss's newer VisuMax 800 laser, which shortens laser time. Because the upper corneal layers are largely left intact and there is no flap, the cornea's surface nerves are less disturbed than in LASIK.

Who is a good candidate?

  • Adults with stable nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism
  • People who are active in sports and prefer to avoid a flap
  • Those concerned about dry eye, as some studies suggest less early dryness than LASIK
  • Patients with healthy corneas of adequate thickness

SMILE is less commonly used for farsightedness, and very low or very high prescriptions may suit other procedures better.

What happens at the clinic

  1. Comprehensive screening: refraction, corneal topography and thickness, tear film tests and a dilated fundus exam.
  2. Consultation: the surgeon explains whether SMILE, LASIK, LASEK or ICL best fits your eyes.
  3. Laser stage: after numbing drops, the eye is gently held while the laser creates the lenticule, usually in well under a minute.
  4. Lenticule removal: the surgeon separates and removes the tissue through the small incision.
  5. Check and discharge: a brief exam before you leave with drops and eye shields.

Recovery and aftercare

Mild scratchiness and blurred vision are common on the day. Many people see well enough to work on a screen within one to two days, though sharpness may keep improving for weeks. Use prescribed drops, avoid rubbing your eyes, and avoid swimming and eye makeup for the period your surgeon recommends.

Risks and side effects

Possible issues include temporary haze, dry eye, glare or halos, under-correction, and rare difficulties removing the lenticule. Enhancement options after SMILE can differ from LASIK and should be discussed in advance.

Choosing a clinic for SMILE Pro in Seomyeon

  • Confirm the surgeon is a board-certified ophthalmologist experienced in lenticule extraction.
  • Ask whether the clinic uses the VisuMax 800 (SMILE Pro) or the earlier platform.
  • Ask whether your prescription is within the range the surgeon recommends for SMILE.
  • Ask how an enhancement would be done if you need one.
  • Confirm the post-operative visit schedule and English support.

Visiting Busan for SMILE

With quick early recovery, SMILE can fit a stay of several days including the first follow-up. Seomyeon is reachable from Gimhae Airport via the light rail to Sasang and Line 2.

Key facts

  • Treats: myopia and myopic astigmatism (range depends on platform approval)
  • Technique: lenticule extraction through a small incision; no flap
  • Laser platform: SMILE Pro uses the Zeiss VisuMax 800 femtosecond laser
  • Anesthesia: numbing eye drops
  • Total time on the day: several hours including screening and rest
  • Return to desk work: often within 1–2 days
  • Typical NHI coverage: not covered (elective refractive surgery)

Frequently asked questions

Is SMILE Pro better than LASIK?

Neither is universally better. SMILE avoids a flap and may cause less early dry eye; LASIK treats a wider range of prescriptions, including farsightedness. Your eye measurements determine the best fit.

How long does SMILE Pro take?

The laser stage takes well under a minute per eye, and the whole procedure about 10–20 minutes. Plan several hours at the clinic including screening and rest.

Does SMILE Pro hurt?

Numbing drops prevent pain. You may feel pressure during the procedure and mild scratchiness for a few hours afterwards.

Can I travel after SMILE Pro in Busan?

Many people can travel after the day-one check, but surgeons usually prefer you attend at least the first follow-up. Ask your clinic for its recommended schedule.

Who is not suitable for SMILE?

People with unstable prescriptions, thin or irregular corneas, keratoconus, significant farsightedness, active eye disease or pregnancy may be advised to choose another option or wait.

Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.