SMILE Eye Surgery in Beverly Hills
Advanced, flap-free vision correction surgery that has a faster recovery and enhanced comfort.
Elevate Your Vision—Naturally
At Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology, SMILE represents the latest laser eye surgery technology. With no flap and minimal disruption to the eye’s surface, SMILE offers a new level of precision and comfort for qualified candidates seeking long-term visual freedom.
What Is SMILE Vision Correction?
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser procedure to correct nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, SMILE does not require the creation of a corneal flap. Instead, a femtosecond laser creates a thin disc (called a lenticule) within the cornea, removed through a small incision. The procedure reshapes the cornea and allows light to focus correctly on the retina—restoring clear, crisp vision.
SMILE combines the best of both worlds: the visual outcomes of LASIK with the gentle, flap-free approach of surface procedures.
Why Choose Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology?
- Experienced, trusted surgeons – Our board-certified ophthalmologists have performed thousands of successful laser vision correction procedures, including SMILE, LASIK, and PRK.
- Advanced diagnostics – We use top-tier imaging and corneal mapping technologies to determine candidacy and ensure optimal outcomes.
- Patient-centered care – Our practice prioritizes education, comfort, and collaboration at every step of your vision correction journey.
- Discreet Beverly Hills environment – You’ll receive leading-edge treatment in a private, professional setting with a reputation for excellence in care.
What Are the Benefits of SMILE Eye Surgery?
- No corneal flap – Reduces the risk of flap complications and preserves more of the eye’s natural structure.
- Minimally invasive – A single small incision results in less disruption, less dryness, and faster recovery.
- Fast procedure time – Typically completed in under 10 minutes per eye.
- Excellent visual outcomes – Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better within days.
- Ideal for active lifestyles – Fewer activity restrictions during recovery make it a top choice for athletes or busy travelers.
Who Is a Candidate?
- SMILE is FDA-approved for adults over 22 with stable prescriptions and:
- Mild to moderate nearsightedness
- Up to 3.00 diopters of astigmatism
- Healthy corneas and no prior eye conditions (like keratoconus or severe dry eye)
Your eligibility is determined in a comprehensive evaluation using corneal topography, tear testing, and a visual assessment.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Step 1: Precision Laser Mapping
Before the procedure, we create a detailed 3D map of your eye to guide the laser for precise, individualized treatment.
Step 2: Lenticule Creation
A femtosecond laser creates a thin disc (lenticule) within the cornea and a small incision through which it can be removed.
Step 3: Lenticule Removal
Your surgeon gently extracts the lenticule, reshaping the cornea in seconds—with no flap and minimal disruption to surface nerves.
Step 4: Immediate Results
Most patients notice improved vision almost immediately and continue to experience sharpening clarity in the following days.
What Is the Recovery After SMILE?
- Day 1–3: Mild discomfort or blurry vision is common but manageable. Most patients return to daily tasks within 24 hours.
- Week 1: Vision stabilizes quickly, and dry eye symptoms (if any) are typically milder than with LASIK.
- Month 1+: Final visual results are achieved, with continued improvement in clarity and comfort.
Results You Can Trust
SMILE has one of the highest patient satisfaction rates among laser vision correction options. Clinical studies show excellent long-term stability, low complication rates, and fewer symptoms of dry eye or light sensitivity compared to flap-based procedures.
FAQs
How long does the SMILE procedure take?
Each eye typically takes less than 10 minutes, with the laser portion lasting only 25–30 seconds.
Does SMILE surgery hurt?
No. The procedure is performed under numbing eye drops and is typically pain-free. Some pressure may be felt for a few seconds.
Can I blink during the procedure?
No worries—the system includes a lid holder and eye tracker to ensure you stay comfortably aligned and still.
Does SMILE achieve long-lasting results?
Yes. SMILE provides long-lasting results, although natural age-related vision changes (like presbyopia) may still occur later in life.
How soon can I return to normal activities?
Most patients resume work and light activity within a day and full activity—including exercise—within a week.
Schedule Your Consultation
Discover whether SMILE is the right choice for your eyes and your lifestyle. Contact Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology today to schedule your consultation and begin your journey to clearer vision.