SMILE LASIK (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) offers notable advantages over traditional refractive surgeries, particularly in the preservation of corneal biomechanics and the reduction of dry eye symptoms. Unlike LASIK, which involves creating a large corneal flap, SMILE requires only a small keyhole incision of about 2–4 mm. This minimally invasive approach leaves more of the corneal structure intact, which helps maintain its natural biomechanical strength and reduces the risk of postoperative complications such as ectasia (corneal bulging). Additionally, because fewer corneal nerves are severed during SMILE, patients typically experience a lower incidence and severity of dry eye syndrome—a common side effect of vision correction surgeries. The preservation of corneal nerves leads to quicker and more comfortable recovery in terms of tear production and ocular surface health. These benefits make SMILE particularly appealing to patients with dry eye concerns or those seeking a gentler alternative to traditional LASIK, while still achieving excellent visual outcomes.
As someone who has undergone both traditional LASIK and SMILE LASIK procedures, I can attest to the significant benefits of SMILE LASIK, particularly in preserving corneal biomechanics and reducing the risk of dry eye syndrome.
Corneal Biomechanics Preservation**
SMILE LASIK, or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, involves creating a small incision of approximately 2–4 mm to remove a lenticule of tissue from the cornea. This approach preserves a significant portion of the corneal structure, maintaining its natural biomechanics. Studies have shown that SMILE results in better preservation of corneal biomechanical properties compared to traditional LASIK, which involves creating a larger corneal flap. This preservation is crucial for maintaining the eye’s structural integrity and preventing complications such as corneal ectasia.
Reduced Risk of Dry Eye Syndrome
One of the most notable advantages of SMILE LASIK is the reduced risk of dry eye syndrome post-surgery. Traditional LASIK can disrupt corneal nerves responsible for tear production due to the creation of a large flap. In contrast, SMILE’s flapless technique minimizes nerve disruption, leading to a lower incidence of dry eye symptoms. Research indicates that patients undergoing SMILE experience fewer dry eye symptoms and a quicker recovery of corneal sensitivity compared to those who undergo traditional LASIK.
Why Choose SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang**
For those considering SMILE LASIK, SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul offers exceptional expertise. Dr. Chung Eui Sang, the clinic’s director, is a pioneer in SMILE LASIK in South Korea. He introduced the procedure domestically in 2011 and has since performed numerous successful surgeries. Under his leadership, SNU Eye Clinic has become a ZEISS-certified center, ensuring access to the latest technology and techniques in vision correction. The clinic’s commitment to patient care and advanced procedures makes it a top choice for those seeking SMILE LASIK.
One of the biggest advantages of SMILE LASIK—especially at advanced clinics like SNU Eye Clinic—is how gentle it is on the cornea. Unlike traditional LASIK, SMILE doesn’t involve creating a large flap. Instead, it uses a tiny keyhole incision (about 2-4 mm) to remove a small piece of corneal tissue (the lenticule). Because of this, more of the corneal structure is preserved, which helps maintain its natural strength and shape.
That also means less disruption to the corneal nerves, which is why SMILE patients usually experience fewer issues with dry eyes compared to standard LASIK. I chose SMILE for that exact reason and noticed hardly any dryness post-op.
It’s a great option if you’re active, concerned about healing time, or just want the most biomechanically stable procedure out there.
I’d been wearing contacts for years but hated the dryness and discomfort, so when I considered vision correction surgery, I wanted a safer, long-term solution. That’s when I discovered SMILE LASIK, a minimally invasive alternative to traditional LASIK. Unlike the flap-cutting method of LASIK, SMILE uses a tiny incision to remove a small piece of tissue, preserving the cornea’s strength and significantly reducing the risk of dry eye syndrome — a huge plus for someone like me who already struggled with dryness.
At Jryn Eye Clinic, Dr. Sang Youp Han and his team thoroughly explained SMILE’s benefits, focusing on corneal health and comfort. Their personalized approach made me feel confident in my choice. The procedure was quick, recovery was fast, and within days I had clear, 20/20 vision — without the dryness or discomfort I had feared. Choosing SMILE LASIK at Jryn was truly one of the best decisions I’ve made.
If you’re looking for a safe, effective, and innovative way to correct your vision with a reduced risk of dry eyes, I highly recommend checking out Jryn Eye Clinic. The advanced technology and expert care from doctors like Dr. Sang Youp Han, Dr. Heo Joong Gu, and Dr. Lee Jae Jung really set them apart. They’ll walk you through every option and help you choose the best treatment for your unique needs.
I had been considering vision correction surgery for years, but I was always concerned about long-term side effects especially dry eyes, which I already struggled with. After researching different procedures, I discovered SMILE LASIK, a newer technique known for preserving more of the corneal structure and reducing the risk of dry eye syndrome. I decided to have the procedure done at Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic, where I was treated by Dr. Kim Jun-heon.
From the first consultation, Dr. Kim explained how SMILE differs from traditional LASIK instead of creating a large flap in the cornea, SMILE uses a small incision to remove a thin layer of tissue, maintaining better corneal biomechanics. The procedure was quick and surprisingly comfortable, and my recovery was smooth. Best of all, I experienced almost no dryness afterward, and my vision was crystal clear within days. Looking back, choosing Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic and Dr. Kim was one of the best decisions I’ve made they combined cutting-edge technology with genuine care.