SMILE Vision Correction
A gentle, flapless laser option for vision correction, well suited to active lifestyles and drier, more sensitive eyes.
A closer look at your care.
SMILE, or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, is a modern, minimally invasive form of laser vision correction. Instead of creating a flap as in LASIK, the laser shapes a thin disc of tissue within the cornea that is removed through a tiny keyhole opening, leaving the surface largely intact.
Because it is flapless and uses a very small incision, SMILE tends to preserve more of the cornea's strength and is often kinder to the tear film, which can make it a good choice for people with dry eyes or active, sporty lifestyles.
Why patients choose SMILE
Flapless & keyhole
A tiny incision rather than a corneal flap means a structurally gentler procedure.
Kinder to dry eyes
Less disturbance of the corneal nerves often means fewer dry-eye symptoms afterwards.
Great for active lives
The flapless approach suits contact sports and demanding, outdoor routines.
Quick and quiet
A single laser, a short treatment, and a calm recovery for suitable candidates.
Decades of trust, built one patient at a time.
Dr Vasantha Gowri qualifies MBBS from Medical College, Calcutta and begins her ophthalmology training in Chennai.
Clinic established on Anandavelu Street, Perambur, bringing specialist eye care to north Chennai under one roof.
OCT imaging and modern diagnostic equipment added, raising the clinical standard for the community.
Trusted across Perambur, Kolathur, Madhavaram and north Chennai for comprehensive, personal eye care.
Dr Vasantha Gowri
Consultant Ophthalmologist · MBBS · DO (Ophthalmology) · FICO (UK) · FRCS (Glasgow)
Medical disclaimer: Content on this page is for general information only. Please consult Dr Vasantha Gowri for a diagnosis and treatment plan specific to your condition.
SMILE may suit you if
- You have short-sight (myopia), with or without astigmatism
- You have dry or sensitive eyes that make you cautious about LASIK
- You play contact sports or have an active outdoor lifestyle
- You want a minimally invasive, flapless correction
Simple, clear and unhurried.
Suitability check
Detailed corneal and refraction testing confirm whether SMILE is right for you.
Lenticule creation
At the partner laser centre, the laser shapes a thin lenticule inside the cornea in well under a minute.
Keyhole removal
The lenticule is removed through a tiny keyhole incision, then you return to us for a calm, guided recovery.
Questions, answered.
LASIK creates a corneal flap, while SMILE works through a tiny keyhole incision with no flap. SMILE can be gentler on the tear film, while LASIK treats a wider range of prescriptions. We advise which fits your eyes.
Most people notice useful vision within a day or two. As with any laser procedure, the eye continues to settle over the following weeks.
SMILE is mainly used for short-sight and astigmatism. If you are long-sighted, we will discuss whether LASIK or another option suits you better.
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Whether it is a routine check or a concern you have quietly put off, our care team is ready. New patients of every age are welcome, and walk-ins are seen during clinic hours.