Discover ReLEx SMILE, one of the most advanced flapless glasses-removal procedures, at Amanat Eye Hospital. Powered by German ZEISS laser technology and backed by 25+ years of refractive surgery expertise.
What Is SMILE Eye Surgery?
A flapless laser vision correction procedure to help you remove glasses and contact lenses.
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) also known as ReLEx SMILE, is a flapless laser eye surgery that corrects short-sightedness and certain types of astigmatism. Using German ZEISS VisuMax technology, the laser creates a tiny piece of tissue inside the cornea, which your surgeon removes through a small incision. The laser treatment takes just seconds per eye.
At Amanat Eye Hospital, our refractive surgery team brings 25+ years of glasses-removal expertise, led by Dr. Aamir Asrar, CEO and Principal Consultant, serving patients in Rawalpindi.
How Does SMILE Eye Surgery Work?
Nervous about eye surgery? It may be easier than you think. The advanced SMILE procedure is quick, with most patients experiencing minimal discomfort.
Lenticule Creation
Just a few seconds under the laser
ZEISS VisuMax, a German technology laser, creates a tiny disc of tissue inside your cornea.
Micro-Incision
A tiny, flapless opening
Your surgeon makes a small incision of about 2-4 mm without creating a corneal flap.
Lenticule Removal
Reshaping your cornea
Your surgeon removes the tiny disc, changing the shape of your cornea to correct your vision.
SMILE vs Femto LASIK vs PRK: Which Is Right for You?
All three can reduce your dependence on glasses. The main differences are how they work and how quickly your eyes recover.
| SMILE | Femto LASIK | PRK | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technique | Tiny incision, no flap | Thin corneal flap | Surface treatment, no flap |
| Recovery | Usually quick | Usually fastest initial recovery | Longer healing time |
| Dry Eye Risk | Generally lower | Temporary dryness may be more common. | Temporary dryness may occur. |
Not sure which procedure is right for your eyes?
Our refractive surgery specialists will assess your eye health and guide you through the available options.
SMILE Eye Surgery Eligibility & Candidate Criteria
Not everyone is an immediate candidate. Our Zeiss certified SMILE doctors in Pakistan check a few things at your pre-op eye exam.
Who Can Get SMILE Eye Surgery
- Age 18 or olderYour eyes have finished developing.
- Stable prescriptionYour vision has not changed for one year.
- Treatable rangeYour myopia and astigmatism are within safe limits.
- Healthy corneasYour Pentacam and thickness scans show safe results.
Who Might Not Qualify For SMILE Eye Surgery
- Under 18Your eyes are still developing.
- Changing prescriptionYour vision has changed within the last year.
- Outside the treatable rangeYour myopia or astigmatism is above the safe limit.
- Scans outside safe limitsYour corneal results do not meet safety requirements.
Not eligible for SMILE? An experienced refractive surgeon can help you understand which vision correction options may suit your eyes. Book a pre-operative assessment with our specialists to discuss your options, including Femto LASIK and PRK.
The Team and Technology Behind Your SMILE Eye Surgery
Dr. Aamir Asrar
25+ years in refractive surgery, with FCPS, FRCS and Corneo-Refractive Surgery fellowship training.
ZEISS VisuMax Laser
The trusted German laser for SMILE procedure.
Of refractive surgery expertise, led by Dr. Aamir Asrar.
Helping Patients Experience Life Beyond Glasses.
A detailed eye exam to confirm SMILE eye surgery is right for you.
Pentacam, Corvis ST, Refraction, Cycloplegic Refraction and Fundoscopy assess your eye health and suitability for SMILE.
SMILE has reported high patient satisfaction in published studies worldwide.
Our clinical protocols follow international safety guidelines for refractive surgery established by the International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS).
SMILE Eye Surgery Cost in Pakistan
How much does SMILE glasses removal cost?
The price depends on your prescription and eye assessment. Contact us, and our team will tell you the exact cost.
How can I pay?
We offer easy payment methods, including card payments, and bank transfers.
Is SMILE covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your policy. Contact us, and our team will help you find out.
Which insurance companies is Amanat Eye Hospital affiliated with?
Amanat Eye Hospital has affiliations with selected insurance providers, including:
Jubilee General Insurance Company Limited
Askari General Insurance Company Limited
Allianz EFU Health Insurance Limited
IGI General Insurance Limited
Asia Insurance Company Limited
East West Insurance Company Limited
Alfalah Insurance Company Limited
State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan
Please contact your nearest Amanat Eye Hospital branch to confirm insurance coverage for SMILE eye surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SMILE the same as ReLEx SMILE?
Yes. SMILE is the shorter name for ReLEx SMILE, the laser vision correction procedure developed by ZEISS. Both names refer to the same procedure.
What happens if I blink or move my eye during SMILE surgery?
There’s no need to worry. Before the SMILE procedure, numbing eye drops are used to keep you comfortable, and a small eyelid holder gently keeps your eye open. The laser’s contact system uses light suction to help keep your eye steady for a few moments. Your surgeon will guide you throughout the procedure, making the experience quick, controlled, and comfortable.
Is SMILE eye surgery safe?
Yes, SMILE is a well-established laser vision correction procedure with a good safety record. Like any surgery, it carries some risks, which your surgeon will discuss with you before treatment. Your eye health and corneal scans help determine whether SMILE is a safe option for you.
Can I have Femto LASIK after SMILE surgery?
Further vision correction after SMILE depends on your corneal health and overall eye condition. Consult a refractive surgery specialist to understand whether Femto LASIK, PRK, or another approach may be appropriate for you.
Can I have SMILE surgery again after a previous SMILE procedure?
Repeat SMILE is not routinely performed. PRK may be an option for further vision correction. Always consult a refractive surgery specialist to determine the most suitable option for your eyes.
Does SMILE eye surgery hurt?
SMILE is performed using numbing eye drops, so patients generally feel little to no pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort may occur afterward.
Can SMILE eye surgery cause dry eyes?
SMILE eye surgery may have a lower risk of dry eye symptoms than Femto LASIK because it does not require a corneal flap. However, temporary dry eyes can still occur after surgery.
Will I achieve 20/20 vision after SMILE?
Many patients achieve 20/20 vision after SMILE, but results vary depending on their prescription and individual eye health.
How long does it take to recover from ReLEx SMILE?
Many patients notice clearer vision within the first few days and return to routine activities within 24–48 hours. However, recovery varies, and your vision may take longer to stabilise. Follow your surgeon’s advice about driving, screen use, and other activities.
When can I return to office work and my daily routine after SMILE?
Most patients can return to office work and routine activities within 24–48 hours, depending on their recovery and their surgeon’s advice.
Can both eyes be treated on the same day?
Yes, both eyes can usually be treated during the same appointment if your surgeon determines that it is suitable for you.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a certified ophthalmologist.