ReLEx SMILE — correction through a small incision
ReLEx SMILE
Refractive correction without a corneal flap, through a small incision. From THB 75,000, assessed individually by our ophthalmology team.
نظرة عامة
ReLEx SMILE uses a femtosecond laser to shape a thin lenticule inside the cornea, which is then removed through a small incision — so no corneal flap is created, unlike FemtoLASIK. That is the main reason people concerned about dry eye, or who want a smaller incision, ask about it.
What to know before deciding
How ReLEx SMILE differs from LASIK
Corneal flap — SMILE creates none; FemtoLASIK creates one with a laser · Incision size — smaller with SMILE · Early sensation — both use anaesthetic drops and are usually described as pressure rather than pain · Return to routine — with both, most patients go home the same day; the exact recovery window is individual · Prescription range covered — SMILE addresses myopia to about 10.00 D and astigmatism to about 5.00 D, while FemtoLASIK covers a slightly wider span including hyperopia (draft figures, pending ophthalmology sign-off) · Starting price — SMILE THB 75,000, against FemtoLASIK THB 69,000 and PRK THB 42,500.
About dry eye — what can and cannot be claimed
Dry eye occurs after every form of laser vision correction and is usually most noticeable in the early period. The technical difference with SMILE is that no corneal flap is created, but how much dry eye an individual experiences also depends on their existing ocular surface and tear film — not on the method alone. Our ophthalmology team assesses dry eye before any procedure, and in some cases it must be treated first.
Who ReLEx SMILE may not suit
Working ranges: myopia of roughly 0.50–10.00 D with astigmatism up to about 5.00 D (draft figures, pending ophthalmology sign-off). Hyperopia is generally not an indication for this method, and SMILE does not correct age-related long-sightedness — reading glasses will still be needed later. A prescription that is still changing, an irregular cornea, untreated severe dry eye, previous eye surgery, or pregnancy and breastfeeding all mean the procedure is not considered at that time.
Risks and limitations you should know
As with other laser correction methods: dry eye, glare or halos at night, a residual prescription that may warrant further correction, and uncommon but possible complications. It does not stop the eye changing with age. Our ophthalmology team explains the risks specific to your case before you decide.
Scope of service
Assessment and follow-up take place at YOUNIFY Clinic in Silom. The procedure itself is performed by our own medical team at an affiliated hospital with a standard operating theatre and anaesthesia team — the team that assesses you is the team that operates and follows you up.
Assessment first
Is this procedure right for you?
ReLEx SMILE uses a femtosecond laser to shape a thin lenticule inside the cornea, which is then removed through a small incision — so no corneal flap is created, unlike FemtoLASIK. That is the main reason people concerned about dry eye, or who want a smaller incision, ask about it.
Not sure which option fits?Send us your current prescription and our medical team will tell you which assessment to book.Ask our medical team
Generally suitable for
- You want a method that does not create a corneal flap
- You are concerned about dry eye and want to know which option suits your ocular surface
- A stable prescription, myopia up to about 10.00 D, and eye health within range (draft figures, pending ophthalmology sign-off)
Not suitable for
- A prescription that is still changing
- Untreated severe dry eye, glaucoma, retinal disease or intraocular inflammation
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Medical conditions affecting wound healing — always tell our medical team first
If the assessment says no
We explain why plainly and set out the alternatives that do suit your eyes — considering an implantable lens instead of laser, for example, or treating an underlying condition first and reassessing afterwards.
Telling you what is not possible matters to us as much as performing the procedure itself.
المسار العلاجي
- Initial enquiry on LINE or WhatsApp — tell us your prescription and why SMILE interests you.
- Full eye assessment, including dry-eye evaluation and corneal shape.
- Consultation — whether SMILE suits your eyes or another method should be considered.
- Procedure day — anaesthetic drops; most patients go home the same day.
- Follow-up — scheduled reviews to monitor healing and dry eye.
Price list
ProcedureStarting Thailand price (฿)Starting Thailand price (AUD)Standard Australia price (AUD)
Vision procedures
PRK (both eyes)42,500A$1,848A$4,500
FemtoLASIK (both eyes)69,000A$3,000A$5,500
ReLEx SMILE (both eyes)75,000A$3,261A$7,000
ICL implantable collamer lens (both eyes)160,000A$6,957A$14,000
Cataract surgery + monofocal lens (per eye)45,000A$1,957A$4,250
Cataract surgery + multifocal/EDOF lens (per eye)85,000A$3,696A$6,500
Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (per eye)89,000A$3,870—
Cataract surgery via phacoemulsification, excluding IOL (per eye)55,000A$2,391—
* Indicative prices for reference only. Final pricing depends on an individual assessment. Overseas prices are indicative market estimates for comparison only — contact our team for a personalized quote.
FAQ
What actually differs between SMILE and LASIK?
How the corneal tissue is reached — SMILE creates no flap and uses a smaller incision, while FemtoLASIK raises a flap before reshaping with the laser. Each has different advantages and limits, and suitability depends on the individual eye.
Does SMILE mean no dry eye at all?
No. Dry eye occurs after every method of laser vision correction, especially in the early period. How much also depends on your existing ocular surface and tear film, which is why it is always assessed first.
What does it cost?
From THB 75,000 for both eyes. These are starting prices and may change with your prescription, eye condition and care plan. Our medical team will assess you and confirm all costs before anything begins.
Can SMILE treat a very high prescription?
As a working range, myopia up to about 10.00 D with astigmatism up to about 5.00 D (draft figures, pending ophthalmology sign-off). Beyond that, or where corneal thickness is insufficient, our ophthalmology team will usually suggest ICL instead.
How long is recovery?
Most patients go home the same day and return to routine as advised. How long to avoid dust, smoke, swimming and contact sports depends on individual healing.
How does it compare with PRK?
PRK also creates no flap but works directly on the corneal surface; the early period is usually more irritating and vision clears more gradually, while the starting price is lower. Our ophthalmology team will compare them for you at the assessment.
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