---
title: What is SMILE eye surgery?
description: "SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery that corrects short-sightedness and some astigmatism. It uses a femtosecond laser to create and remove a small lens-shaped piece of tissue from within the cornea. ## How SMILE…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/treatments-procedures/what-is-smile-eye-surgery/"
updated: "2025-12-11"
category: "Treatments & Procedures"
---

# What is SMILE eye surgery?

SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery that corrects short-sightedness and some astigmatism. It uses a femtosecond laser to create and remove a small lens-shaped piece of tissue from within the cornea.

## How SMILE works

The laser creates a thin lenticule and a tiny access incision in the cornea. The lenticule is then removed through the small opening, changing the corneal shape to improve focus.

- No large flap is created, which may help preserve corneal strength
- Most people experience a rapid visual recovery
- Dry eye symptoms may be less pronounced than with some flap-based techniques

## Further information

The main [SMILE laser eye surgery](https://bluefinvision.com/laser-eye-surgery/smile/) page explains suitability and expected outcomes. A neutral comparison of techniques is available in [LASIK vs SMILE: which is right for you?](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/lasik-vs-smile-which-is-right-for-you/).