FAQ
SMILE questions, answered
Reviewed by Rajesh Khanna, MD
SMILE and SMILE Pro, the flapless small-incision laser, explained.
SMILE questions
What is SMILE, in one sentence?
SMILE (small-incision lenticule extraction) uses a femtosecond laser to shape a thin lens-shaped piece of tissue inside the cornea, which the surgeon removes through a small opening, so no LASIK flap is made.
What is the difference between SMILE and SMILE Pro?
The core method is the same. SMILE Pro is performed on the next-generation ZEISS VISUMAX 800 platform with a newer, digitally assisted workflow. Your surgeon explains which platform fits your eyes at your consultation.
What can SMILE correct?
Nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism, in eyes with a stable prescription and a healthy cornea. Farsightedness is not treated with SMILE Pro under the current U.S. FDA approval. Your scans make the final call.
How much does SMILE cost?
SMILE Pro is $150 per eye per month for 24 months. SMILE is $135 per eye per month for 24 months. Figures are for qualified applicants through our financing partners, and your price is confirmed at your VIP consult, after your scans.
What does the price include?
Our procedure prices include all exams, measurements, surgeon’s and anesthetist’s fees, implant fees where applicable, 24 months of follow-up, all fine-tunings and enhancements, dry eye care, YAG where applicable, and the drops needed for surgery.
What is the first visit?
SMILE and SMILE Pro patients start with a free VIP consult: a surgery consultation focused on candidacy, in-office or virtual. It is not a comprehensive eye exam and doesn’t include take-home reports. For a comprehensive eye exam with records, the VIP lifestyle exam is $395 (self-pay only).
Does insurance pay for SMILE?
Usually not. Vision insurance generally covers glasses and contacts rather than elective surgery. We accept PPO plans only. We do not accept HMO plans or Medi-Cal. Many patients use HSA or FSA funds.
How soon can I get back to work?
Many office-based patients return to desk work the next day. Exercise, swimming, makeup and contact sports follow a written schedule from your surgeon.
What about dry eye?
Some dryness can happen while the eye heals after any laser vision procedure. Dry eye care is included in your SMILE price, and we check your tear film before surgery.
SMILE or LASIK?
Both reshape the cornea. SMILE avoids a flap; LASIK uses one. The right choice depends on your cornea, prescription and lifestyle.
VIP consult
Book your free VIP consult
Your first visit is a VIP consult: more time with each patient, and enough time with the surgeon, Dr. Khanna. Candidacy is decided there, and the answer may be a procedure or no surgery at all.
- VIP consult for SMILE Pro, SMILE, LASIK, EVO ICL, PIE, PRK and LASEK
- A surgery consultation, not a full eye exam
- In-office or virtual, as offered
Beverly Hills: Monday and Thursday · Westlake Village: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday · 8 AM–5 PM, last appointment 4 PM. Saturday by arrangement only: please call.