ReLEx SMILE
The newest keyhole laser — minimal-incision correction for myopia and astigmatism with fast, comfortable recovery.
ReLEx SMILE is the newest laser vision correction. Through a tiny keyhole incision the surgeon removes a precise lenticule to correct myopia and astigmatism — no flap, less dry eye and a quick, comfortable recovery.
Quick answer
SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) is laser eye surgery in which a femtosecond laser shapes a thin disc of tissue inside the cornea, which is removed through a small incision. It mainly treats short-sight with or without astigmatism, without creating a flap. An ophthalmologist confirms suitability after a full eye examination.
Suitability is always confirmed by an ophthalmologist after a full eye examination.
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Who is it for?
- Adults, usually 18 or older, with short-sight (myopia) with or without astigmatism and a stable prescription.
- People with healthy corneas of sufficient thickness and regular shape.
- People in contact sports or active jobs who would prefer a flap-free procedure.
- Some patients with mild dry-eye tendencies, where the surgeon considers a flap-free method preferable.
- Anyone who accepts that reading glasses are still likely to be needed from the mid-40s.
Who it isn't for
- Long-sight (hyperopia) in most cases — other laser or lens options are generally used instead.
- Keratoconus, corneal thinning or irregular corneal shape.
- A prescription that is still changing, or pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Severe dry eye, active infection or inflammation, until treated.
- Very low prescriptions, where the tissue disc would be too thin to remove reliably; surface laser may be discussed instead.
How it works
- 1
Pre-assessment and contact-lens pause
You share your prescription and history. Contact lenses are commonly paused before the examination because they alter corneal shape.
- 2
Full eye examination
Tests commonly include refraction, corneal mapping, corneal thickness, tear film and a dilated retinal check. The ophthalmologist confirms whether SMILE is suitable.
- 3
Lenticule creation
After numbing drops, a femtosecond laser shapes a thin lens-shaped disc (lenticule) inside the cornea and a small incision, commonly around 2–4 mm, at its edge.
- 4
Lenticule removal
The surgeon separates and removes the lenticule through the incision, changing the shape of the cornea. No flap is lifted and no stitches are needed.
- 5
Next-day check
The surgeon checks your eyes the following day. You leave with drops and written aftercare.
How long you stay
Most patients stay in Antalya for about three to four days: examination, surgery on both eyes (usually the same day) and a next-day check. One trip is normally enough, with later follow-up commonly arranged with an optometrist or ophthalmologist at home.
Recovery
Vision often improves within a day or two, though it can be slightly slower to sharpen in the first days than after LASIK and may fluctuate for a few weeks. Expect mild grittiness and light sensitivity at first. Avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming and eye make-up for the period your surgeon advises. Many people return to desk work within a few days.
Risks and how they are managed
- Dry eye can occur; some studies suggest it may be less pronounced in the early months than after LASIK, but it still happens and is managed with lubricating drops.
- Glare, halos or starbursts at night are common early on and usually lessen over months.
- Under- or over-correction can leave some residual prescription. Enhancement after SMILE is usually done with surface laser rather than repeating SMILE.
- Difficulty separating the lenticule, or small tissue remnants, is uncommon and may affect the quality of vision.
- Infection and inflammation are rare and are treated with drops.
- Corneal ectasia is rare; careful pre-operative screening reduces the risk.
Technology and instruments
- Corneal topography/tomography for screening shape and thickness.
- Femtosecond laser capable of lenticule extraction.
- Surgical microscope and fine instruments for lenticule separation and removal.
Technology types only — the exact devices used are named in your written treatment plan.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SMILE and LASIK?
LASIK creates a flap and reshapes the tissue beneath with a second laser. SMILE uses one laser to shape a disc inside the cornea, which is removed through a small incision, so there is no flap.
Is SMILE better than LASIK?
Neither is better for everyone. SMILE avoids a flap and may cause less early dry eye; LASIK treats a wider range, including long-sight, and vision may sharpen slightly faster. Your ophthalmologist advises after examining you.
Can SMILE treat long-sight?
SMILE is mainly used for short-sight with or without astigmatism. Long-sight is generally treated with LASIK, surface laser or lens surgery.
Does it hurt?
Numbing drops keep it comfortable; most people feel pressure. The eyes can feel scratchy for a few hours afterwards.
How soon can I see clearly?
Many people see well enough for daily tasks within a day or two, with vision continuing to sharpen over the following weeks.
Will I still need reading glasses?
SMILE does not prevent presbyopia, so most people need reading glasses from their mid-40s.
What if my vision is not perfect afterwards?
If a meaningful prescription remains once your eyes are stable, an enhancement — usually with surface laser — may be possible. Your surgeon will discuss this at follow-up.
When can I fly home?
Most people fly after the next-day check, once the surgeon is happy with healing.
Included in your package
- Free eye examination & suitability check
- Often lower cost than UK & EU prices
- Free VIP airport transfers & a hotel near the clinic
- LASIK, SMILE, Smart Lens & cataract by eye surgeons
- A dedicated patient coordinator at every step
Treatments we offer