Enjoy clearer vision with SMILE, a flapless glasses removal procedure performed using advanced German ZEISS VisuMax laser technology.
Written by: Amanat Eye Medical Editorial Team
Last Updated: October 2026
What Is SMILE Laser Eye Surgery?
SMILE stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. It is a flapless laser vision correction for short-sightedness (myopia) and astigmatism.
Instead of cutting a flap in the cornea, the laser works inside it through one tiny incision. That is why it is called flapless.
How Does SMILE Surgery Work?
In simple terms, it takes three steps:
- The laser shapes a thin disc. A femtosecond laser creates a tiny, precise piece of tissue, called a lenticule, inside your cornea.
- A small opening is made. The same laser makes one small incision of about 2-4 mm.
- The lenticule is removed. Your surgeon gently takes it out through the incision. The cornea settles into its new shape, and your vision is corrected.
Tired of Glasses? Why SMILE Laser Is the Modern Choice
High myopia (short-sightedness) or astigmatism making everyday life difficult?
- Glasses fog up, slip down, and get in the way.
- Contact lenses can leave your eyes feeling dry and uncomfortable.
- Worried about the corneal flap involved in traditional LASIK?
SMILE eye surgery offers a flapless alternative. Using German ZEISS VisuMax laser technology, it corrects eligible vision errors through a tiny incision, without creating a corneal flap.
Who Is a Good Candidate for SMILE Eye Surgery?
- Stable Prescription — Your vision prescription has remained stable for at least a year.
- Myopia and Astigmatism — Your prescription falls within SMILE’s treatable range.
- Thin Corneas — You may still have options. A corneal scan will help determine your suitability.
- Healthy Eyes — Your corneas and overall eye health meet the requirements for surgery.
Why Choose Amanat Eye Hospital for SMILE Surgery?
- Expert Surgeon: 25+ years of refractive surgery experience with Dr. Aamir Asrar.
- 100,000+ Procedures: Extensive experience in glasses removal surgery.
- Advanced ZEISS Technology: German laser technology for flapless SMILE surgery.
- More Treatment Options: Our specialists will suggest alternatives if SMILE isn’t right for your eyes.
- Care You Can Trust: Expert guidance from assessment to surgery.
smile eye surgery in pakistan
Is SMILE Eye Surgery Safe?
SMILE is an established glasses removal procedure, and having an experienced surgeon matters. At Amanat Eye Hospital, Dr. Aamir Asrar brings 25+ years of refractive surgery experience and has performed over 100,000 glasses removal procedures.
Like any surgery, SMILE carries some risks, including temporary dry eyes and visual disturbances. A thorough eye assessment helps Dr. Aamir determine whether the procedure is right for you.
SMILE vs. Femto LASIK vs. PRK: What’s the Difference?
Choosing between SMILE, Femto LASIK and PRK? All three can reduce your dependence on glasses, but they differ in how they correct your vision, how they treat the cornea, and how long recovery takes.
| SMILE | Femto LASIK | PRK | |
| How it works | Corrects vision through a small incision | Creates a thin corneal flap before reshaping the cornea | Reshapes the cornea after removing its surface layer |
| Corneal flap | No flap | Flap required | No flap |
| Recovery | Usually quick | Usually quick | Takes longer, with more initial discomfort |
Which one is right for you? Each procedure has its own benefits. The best choice depends on your prescription, corneal health and individual needs. Dr. Aamir Asrar can assess your eyes and help you decide which option is suitable.
How Much Does SMILE Eye Surgery Cost?
The cost of SMILE eye surgery can vary depending on the hospital, laser technology, and your treatment needs.
At Amanat Eye Hospital, you can discuss the cost of SMILE with our refractive department team during your consultation and understand your options before making a decision.
What Is the Difference Between SMILE and ReLEx SMILE?
SMILE and ReLEx SMILE refer to the same vision correction procedure. ReLEx SMILE is the original name for the procedure developed by ZEISS, while SMILE is the shorter name commonly used today.
So, whether you search for SMILE or ReLEx SMILE eye surgery, you’re referring to the same procedure.
At Amanat Eye Hospital, we perform ReLEx SMILE eye surgery for suitable candidates who want to reduce their dependence on glasses. Our eye specialists will assess your eyes and guide you through the procedure to help you make an informed decision.
Does Insurance Cover SMILE Eye Surgery in Pakistan?
Good news! 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 Insurance Limited
- Asia Insurance Limited
- East West Insurance Company Limited
- Alfalah Insurance Limited
- State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan
- Atlas Insurance Limited
Whether your SMILE eye surgery is covered depends on your insurance plan and policy terms.
Give us a call to check whether your insurance is accepted and discuss your options.
Ready to take the next step towards life without glasses?
Contact Amanat Eye Hospital: 0320 8113747
Who Will Perform My Surgery?
Choosing a surgeon for glasses removal is a big decision. Dr. Aamir Asrar, FPSC, is one of Pakistan’s most experienced refractive surgeons, with over 25 years of experience in refractive surgery and 100,000+ glasses removal procedures performed.
With fellowships in Corneo-Refractive Surgery and Vitreo-Retinal Surgery, he brings specialist expertise and decades of surgical experience to every patient’s journey towards life without glasses.
What Technology Will Be Used?
- ZEISS VisuMax Femtosecond Laser
- Advanced German laser technology
- Laser treatment completed in just a few seconds per eye
- Enables flapless SMILE eye surgery through a small incision
- Minimally invasive corneal treatment
Ready to See the World Clearly Without Glasses?
Take the first step with SMILE eye surgery at Amanat Eye Hospital. Book your consultation to find out if SMILE is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get SMILE eye surgery in Pakistan?
Amanat Eye Hospital offers SMILE laser eye surgery using ZEISS VisuMax technology.
Which hospital offers SMILE eye surgery in Rawalpindi?
Amanat Eye Hospital offers SMILE eye surgery in Rawalpindi, along with other glasses removal procedures.
How do I choose a hospital for SMILE laser eye surgery?
Look for an experienced refractive surgeon, suitable laser technology, and a thorough eye assessment before surgery.
How long does it take to recover from SMILE eye surgery?
Most patients can resume routine activities within a day or two, although vision may take longer to stabilise. Recovery varies from person to person.
Is SMILE eye surgery painless?
Numbing eye drops are used during the procedure, so you should not feel pain during surgery. You may experience mild discomfort, irritation, or watering afterwards.