SMILE Pro in Gangnam, Seoul, Korea — the 10-second keyhole laser
SMILE Pro is the latest generation of flapless SMILE vision correction, performed on the ZEISS VisuMax 800. The laser phase takes under 10 seconds per eye — less time under suction and a smoother experience.
Board-certified ophthalmologist · Updated October 2026
What is SMILE Pro and how is it different from SMILE?
SMILE Pro uses the same flapless keyhole technique as SMILE LASIK, but runs on the faster ZEISS VisuMax 800 laser, which completes the laser step in under 10 seconds per eye. Apgujeong Eye Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Korea was an early adopter of SMILE Pro and offers it to international patients with English-speaking coordinators, 1 minute from Sinsa Station Exit 4.
- Laser time
- < 10 seconds / eye
- Incision
- 2–4 mm, no flap
- Treats
- Myopia & astigmatism
- Typical stay
- 5–7 days in Seoul
Same proven SMILE technique, a much faster laser
The original SMILE laser needed around 20–30 seconds to shape the lenticule. The ZEISS VisuMax 800 is significantly faster, so the eye is held under gentle suction for a shorter time. Many patients find this easier, especially nervous patients.
The VisuMax 800 also adds automated centration and cyclotorsion assistance, which help align the treatment precisely with your visual axis — important when correcting astigmatism.
- Under 10 seconds of laser time per eye
- No flap — same biomechanical advantages as SMILE
- Typically less dry eye than LASIK
- Precise centration and astigmatism alignment
- Transparent operating room — a companion can watch
Who is a good candidate for SMILE Pro?
Final eligibility is confirmed only after a full diagnostic exam with your surgeon.
Usually a good fit if you…
- Are 18+ with a stable prescription for at least 12 months
- Have myopia with or without astigmatism
- Have healthy, sufficiently thick corneas
- Want a flapless option with low dry-eye risk
- Prefer the shortest possible laser time
We may suggest another option if…
- You are farsighted or need presbyopia correction
- Your corneas are thin, irregular or show keratoconus signs
- Your myopia is extreme — EVO ICL may be safer
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have active eye disease or uncontrolled diabetes
Your SMILE Pro day in Gangnam
Diagnostics
50+ tests including topography, corneal thickness and dry-eye screening.
Consultation
Your surgeon reviews the data and confirms SMILE Pro or an alternative.
Laser — under 10 s
Numbing drops, a few seconds of laser, then gentle lenticule removal.
Rest
Go back to your hotel; most people see clearly within 24–48 hours.
Check-ups
Next-day and pre-departure exams before you fly home.
SMILE Pro vs SMILE vs LASIK
How the main laser options compare.
| SMILE Pro | SMILE | LASIK | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laser platform | ZEISS VisuMax 800 | ZEISS VisuMax | Femtosecond + excimer |
| Laser time per eye | Under 10 seconds | About 20–30 seconds | About 20–60 seconds total |
| Flap | None | None | Yes |
| Dry eye tendency | Lower | Lower | Higher |
| Treats hyperopia | No | No | Yes |
Jun Hyun Kim, M.D.
Representative Director · Board-Certified Ophthalmologist. Former Professor & Head of Ophthalmology, Hanyang University Hospital; Clinical Fellow, Harvard Medical School / Mass Eye and Ear; reviewer for the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery; ZEISS Global Partnership Award. Member of American Academy of Ophthalmology, ASCRS, ESCRS, Korean Ophthalmological Society.
SMILE Pro explained by our surgeons
Straight answers from the doctors of Apgujeong Eye Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul.
Frequently asked questions
Is SMILE Pro safe?
SMILE Pro uses the established SMILE technique on ZEISS’s latest laser. Like any surgery it carries risks — such as dry eye, glare or under-correction — which your surgeon will discuss after reviewing your measurements.
Does SMILE Pro hurt?
Numbing drops are used. Most people feel light pressure for a few seconds and mild irritation for a few hours afterwards.
How long is recovery after SMILE Pro?
Most patients see well within 24–48 hours and return to desk work within 1–3 days. Avoid swimming and contact sports for about 2 weeks.
Can foreigners get SMILE Pro in Seoul?
Yes. Our English-speaking coordinators help international patients plan a 5–7 day stay, from the WhatsApp pre-assessment to the pre-departure check.
What is the difference between SMILE Pro and SMILE LASIK?
The technique is the same; SMILE Pro uses the faster VisuMax 800 laser with improved centration tools, so the laser time drops to under 10 seconds per eye.
Explore other options
Get a free assessment before you fly
Send your current prescription on WhatsApp. An English-speaking coordinator replies with suitability notes and available dates.
Closed Thu, Sun & public holidays