SMILE Eye Surgery: A Breakthrough Treatment for Astigmatism

Last Updated: February 26, 2025

For years, laser eye surgery has been a life-changing solution for individuals with refractive vision problems. Procedures like LASIK and PRK have helped millions achieve clearer vision, often eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Now, SMILE eye surgery—one of the most advanced laser vision correction procedures—is FDA-approved to treat astigmatism, giving even more patients access to long-term vision correction. Goel Vision’s Dr. Sonny Goel is one of the top SMILE surgeons in Baltimore and Columbia, providing a minimally invasive, flap-free alternative to LASIK.

What is SMILE?

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a cutting-edge laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea to correct nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism.

How SMILE Works:

• A femtosecond laser creates a small lenticule (a thin layer of corneal tissue).
• A tiny incision is made, and the lenticule is removed, reshaping the cornea to improve vision.
• With no flap creation (as in LASIK), SMILE preserves more corneal structure, allowing for a quick recovery.
• SMILE is FDA-approved for myopia up to -10.00 diopters and astigmatism up to -3.00 diopters, making it an excellent option for patients with astigmatism looking for a permanent vision correction solution.

SMILE vs. LASIK: Which Is Right for You?

Both SMILE and LASIK offer exceptional vision correction, but there are key differences between the two:

• No Flap Complications: Unlike LASIK, which creates a corneal flap, SMILE is flap-free, reducing the risk of flap-related issues.
• Lower Risk of Dry Eyes: SMILE disrupts fewer corneal nerves, leading to less post-surgery dryness than LASIK.
• Minimally Invasive: The tiny incision used in SMILE means a faster, smoother recovery compared to LASIK.
• Best for Active Lifestyles: Since there’s no flap that could shift or be dislodged, SMILE is ideal for athletes and active individuals.

While LASIK remains a great option for many, SMILE is particularly beneficial for those with astigmatism or those seeking a less invasive alternative.

What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common vision condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cornea or lens is irregularly shaped, causing blurry or distorted vision.

Symptoms of Astigmatism:

• Blurred vision at all distances
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Eye strain and headaches
• Frequent squinting
• Trouble with vision correction (glasses or contacts feeling "off")

Many patients rely on glasses or contacts to correct astigmatism, but SMILE surgery offers a long-term solution that eliminates the need for corrective lenses.

How SMILE Works for Astigmatism

SMILE is a quick, precise, and effective procedure for correcting astigmatism and nearsightedness.

Using the VisuMax femtosecond laser by Zeiss, SMILE creates a small incision inside the cornea, rather than a large flap. This allows for:

• More corneal stability
• Faster healing
• A lower risk of complications

Benefits of SMILE for Astigmatism

• FDA-Approved for Astigmatism – Now available to more patients than ever.
• Minimally Invasive – No large incision or flap required.
• Quick Recovery – Most patients resume normal activities within a day.
• Reduced Risk of Dry Eye – Fewer corneal nerves are affected than with LASIK.
• One Laser, One Step – Unlike LASIK, which uses two lasers, SMILE only requires one femtosecond laser.
• Over 4 Million Procedures Performed Worldwide – A trusted, proven vision correction solution.

SMILE’s proven safety and effectiveness make it an excellent choice for patients with astigmatism looking for a permanent vision solution.

Are You a Candidate for SMILE?

While SMILE is a great option for many patients, it isn’t suitable for everyone. Candidates for SMILE typically:

• Have nearsightedness (up to -10.00 diopters) and/or astigmatism (up to -3.00 diopters)
• Have healthy corneas with adequate thickness
• Are at least 18 years old
• Have stable vision for at least one year
• Are not pregnant or nursing

The best way to determine if SMILE is right for you is to schedule a comprehensive consultation at Goel Vision. As a board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Goel has been at the forefront of vision correction technology since 1997. He’s also a SMILE recipient himself, giving him first-hand experience with the procedure and its life-changing benefits.

Our team offers FREE pre-operative appointments to confirm your candidacy and recommend a personalized treatment plan tailored to your visual needs.

Why wait? Book a free consultation today to see if SMILE or another form of vision correction is right for you.