SMILE Bright: Embracing ZEISS SMILE for Vision Transformation
- Seoul | Busan BGSS Eye Clinic

- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
At Seoul | Busan BGSS Eye Clinic, we proudly offer advanced vision correction solutions, including the revolutionary ZEISS SMILE surgery. As the third generation of laser refractive procedures, ZEISS SMILE combines the benefits of LASIK and LASEK/PRK, offering a minimally invasive treatment that ensures faster recovery and greater patient comfort. This article provides a detailed examination of the ZEISS SMILE process, its benefits, and what patients can anticipate during recovery.

What Is ZEISS SMILE Surgery?
ZEISS SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a breakthrough in laser refractive surgery. The procedure uses the US FDA-approved VISUMAX 500 femtosecond laser to reshape the cornea with minimal disruption, accurately correcting refractive errors.

Here is how it works:
- Lenticule Design: The VISUMAX laser creates a thin, disc-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the corneal stroma, tailored to the patient’s specific refractive error.
- Minimal Incision: A small, 2mm side incision is made to access the lenticule.
- Lenticule Removal: The surgeon carefully extracts the lenticule through the incision, reshaping the cornea to correct vision.
Unlike LASIK, which involves creating a larger corneal flap, or LASEK/PRK, which removes the epithelium, ZEISS SMILE minimizes exposure to external factors, reducing complication risks and speeding up recovery.
Benefits of ZEISS SMILE at BGSS Eye Clinic

- Precision and Accuracy: The VISUMAX laser uses a stopless, low-energy light that ensures smooth, uniform ablation for high-quality vision correction.
- Minimal Invasiveness: The 2mm side incision causes less damage to the cornea, facilitating quicker and more comfortable healing.
- Convenience: Patients typically undergo the procedure and can return to daily activities within a day or two.
With over 28 years of experience, BGSS Eye Clinic is a pioneer in ZEISS SMILE surgery. Since launching the SMILE surgical method in Korea in 2010, we have performed over 130,000 procedures. All our surgeons are SMILE-certified, providing exceptional expertise and care.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Expectations
After ZEISS SMILE surgery, patients may experience temporary visual disturbances as their eyes heal.
Possible symptoms include:
- Blurry or Hazy Vision: Corneal swelling can cause blurry vision, often described as “seeing underwater.” This typically improves over 2 to 3 weeks, allowing for recovery. Many patients achieve a visual acuity of 0.8 (20/25) the day after surgery, enabling them to resume daily activities.

- Dry Eyes: Temporary dryness occurs as corneal nerves regenerate, a process that can take up to 6 months. Proper blinking and use of prescribed eyedrops help reduce discomfort.

- Night Glares: Some patients may notice increased night glare post-surgery, especially if they have larger pupils. This usually decreases over 6 to 12 months as the brain adapts.
- Myopic Regression: Rarely, the reshaped cornea may partially revert to its original form within 3 months, especially in patients with high prescriptions. Our team closely monitors patients and addresses any issues as needed.
Our expert team at BGSS ensures patients are well-prepared for recovery with detailed post-operative care instructions, including medication and follow-up visits.
Why Choose BGSS Eye Clinic?
BGSS Eye Clinic has been a leader in vision correction surgery for nearly three decades. As Korea's first private clinic to perform the SMILE surgical method in 2010, we continue to set standards with advanced technology and a patient-focused approach. Let us help you achieve the clear vision you deserve with ZEISS SMILE.

Trusted as Korea’s most experienced provider of ZEISS SMILE, BGSS integrates cutting-edge technology with a safety-first philosophy. Whether you seek efficiency, safety, or unparalleled expertise, we are your partner in bringing your vision to life.
Discover the clarity you deserve with ZEISS SMILE: a modern, minimally invasive solution designed to match your lifestyle.
@bgss_intl @smileproinkorea @iclinkorea







