Small incision lenticular extraction (SMILE) is the latest technique in refractive surgery. It has been shown that SMILE is comparable to LASIK in terms of efficiency, safety and predictability. It has been suggested that there may be several benefits of SMILE, such as increased post-operative corneal strength, faster recovery and less incidence of dry eye.

This article will cover the history of modern refractive surgery and describe the SMILE procedure. The inclusion criteria for this treatment and the advantages and disadvantages of SMILE compared to other surgical procedures will be covered. Finally, two patient cases will be discussed to demonstrate patients who may benefit from this refractive procedure.