Refractive Surgery: LASIK (Bladeless) vs SMILE pro - Advanced Vision Correction
1 Dec 2025
1. Introduction
If you're exploring options for refractive surgery in Pune, H.V. Desai Eye Hospital offers cutting-edge solutions like bladeless LASIK and SMILE pro, powered by the advanced VISUMAX 800 system. These procedures help to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, often allowing patients to achieve 20/20 vision or better with faster recovery and fewer side effects.
2. What Is SMILE pro?
SMILE stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, a modern, flap-free laser procedure that corrects myopia and astigmatism using a single femtosecond laser. SMILE pro is the latest upgrade-enabled by VISUMAX 800-which:
Requires only a small (2-4 mm) incision
Eliminates the need for a corneal flap
Ensures faster healing and higher precision
Reduces dry-eye symptoms and flap-related risks
3. LASIK vs. SMILE pro - Quick Comparison
Technique:
Bladeless LASIK: Flap creation + excimer laser reshaping
SMILE pro: Lenticule creation & removal via femtosecond laser
Invasiveness:
Bladeless LASIK: Involves a corneal flap
SMILE pro: Flap-free, preserving corneal strength
Dry-Eye Risk:
Bladeless LASIK: Moderately high
SMILE pro: Lower due to minimal nerve disruption
Recovery Time:
Bladeless LASIK: 3-4 days
SMILE pro: Typically, within a day
SMILE pro Advantages:
- Minimized Risks
- Faster Recovery
- Better Corneal Strength
- Enhanced for Active Lifestyles
4. Why Choose SMILE PRO at H.V. Desai Eye Hospital
- First in Maharashtra to offer VISUMAX 800-based SMILE PRO
- A leading team of experts: Dr. Mukesh Paryani, Dr. Varsha Puranik, Dr. Sanket Kulkarni
- High patient satisfaction, supported by real results and online reviews
- Transparent care, featuring easy access to consultations, cost breakdowns, and aftercare
- At H.V. Desai Eye Hospital, procedure costs are clear, competitive, and fully explained during consultation
6. Getting Started: What to Expect
- Expert consultation: Evaluate your suitability for LASIK or SMILE pro
- Pre-op assessment: Detailed eye check-up, imaging, and measurement
- Day of procedure: Quick, painless, and precise laser treatment
- Recovery: Most resume normal activities the next day
- Follow-up: Routine visits to ensure healing and clear vision
7. FAQ’s
Can I have both eyes treated at the same time? Yes. Many patients prefer to minimize the time off work and reduce the amount of healing time they experience after surgery, so they have both eyes done during the same visit.
Can I drive myself home after surgery? No. Your vision may be blurry in the first few hours after the procedure. will need someone to drive you home. Many people are able to drive the next day.
Will I have to limit my activities after surgery? You will be told to avoid strenuous activity or visually demanding tasks like using laptop or computer or phone for at least 2-3 days after LASIK and 4 days after PRK.
Can I play sports right after the procedure? No. Certain strenuous activities, contact sports and swimming should be postponed for 2-3 weeks.
How soon can I use eye make-up? It is recommended that you avoid using eye make-up for the first week after surgery to reduce the risk of infection.
Can I get water in my eyes? No. You should avoid getting water in your eyes for about one week after surgery, so be careful when washing your face and hair. Best is to avoid them for 1 week.
Will my vision be stable? Although vision may fluctuate slightly during the first few days and shift slowly for 6 to 12 months, most of the healing is complete within 3 to 6 months.
Will I need to use eye drops? Depending on your specific procedure, eye drops may be needed for anywhere from 1 week to six months, but not permanently.
Will I be able to wear coloured lenses for events after PRK or LASIK? Yes. PRK and LASIK do not interfere with the use of soft contact lenses.
Can I have cataract surgery if I need it in the future?
Yes. The surgical technique used will not change. However, your lens implant will be calculated using a different formula.