ReLEx SMILE (Pro)

ReLEx SMILE (Pro) with the ZEISS VISUMAX 500 / 800 is one of the three most recognized procedures worldwide when it comes to lenticule extraction. With the help of advanced technology, it is possible to treat the cornea in such a way that you can do without visual aids in the future. Here you can find out more about the indications, benefits, procedure, prices and possible risks.

ReLEx smile laser eye surgery treatment EyeLaser Vienna – Zurich

ReLEx-smile laser correction, laser eye surgery with femtosecond laser only, treatment without flap (minimally invasive) laser correction). Technology from Carl Zeiss

Was ist ReLEx SMILE?

ReLEx is the abbreviation for “Refractive Lenticule Extraction” (vision-correcting lenticule extraction). SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) stands for Steering wheel extraction with minimal incision.

The femtosecond laser is used to create a lenticule on the cornea. If the lenticule is removed, the cornea takes on such a different shape that the Corrected defective vision will. A flap is not necessary. The lenticule can be removed through a tiny incision of two millimeters.

Free from visual aids thanks to lenticular extraction – SmartSight

The decisive advantages for us have led us at EyeLaser to opted for the SmartSight process have. The procedure of the SmartSight method from SCHWIND is very similar to that of the ReLEx SMILE (Pro) from ZEISS and Clear from ZIEMER.

The SCHWIND ATOS laser is characterized by its advanced technology which leads to a a low-risk, precise and comfortable procedure procedure:

  • Link with diagnostic equipment
  • Safety through eye tracking and cyclotorsion compensation
  • Convenient application thanks to curved contact element
  • Gentle on tissue thanks to optimum lens geometry
  • Automated centering possible for severe astigmatism

This is about the ReLEx SMILE (Pro) procedure and its advantages, treatment procedures, possible risks and special features of the method.

Requirements for ReLEx SMILE

We can determine whether you are suitable for treatment with ReLEx SMILE in a non-binding and free suitability test. Some of the requirements for laser eye treatment are

  • Myopia: -2 to -10 diopters
  • Astigmatism: up to -5 diopters
  • Minimum age: 18 years
  • No thin or deformed cornea
  • Stable ametropia since at least 12 months

The correction of farsightedness is not possible with ReLEx SMILE and SmartSight is not possible. If farsightedness is to be treated, laser eye surgery methods such as Fetmo-LASIK or lens implantation (ICL) are suitable. Reasons for excluding ReLEx SMILE are:

  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Degenerative corneal diseases
  • Cataracts
  • Thin cornea

Cataracts often require lens exchange with multifocal lenses recommendable. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. At the same time, all other visual defects can be corrected using this method.

Free ReLEx SMILE aptitude test & preliminary examination in Zurich

Together with our eye specialists, you can find out whether lenticule extraction – in our clinic with SmartSight – is possible for you. Suitability for treatment is assessed as part of an examination. Together with us, you will find a method that suits your eyes and leads to your desired result.

Aptitude test (15 min)
0,-
Preliminary examination (90 min)
0,- statt 290,-*

*The holistic preliminary examination is now a TARMED insurance benefit and is covered by the health insurance company. If you have a treatment carried out at EyeLaser, the costs will be offset against the laser eye treatment.

Advantages of ReLEx SMILE (Pro)

Most precise correction of the visual defect

The lenticule is precisely and for each patient exactly adaptedcreated and removed, whereby the correcting the visual defect individually. can be individually corrected.

Low risk without flap

A minimal incision is sufficient – no complications by creating a flap.

Directly perceptible result

Immediately after the procedure you will notice an improvement in vision determine. The end result is after one to three days perceptible.

Glückliche Frau

Treatment procedure with ReLEx SMILE

ReLEx SMILE – a procedure that is performed on an outpatient basis, without anesthesia and quickly. Within 15 minutes the treatment is carried out – completely painless, odorless and noiseless.

Preliminary examination

During the preliminary examination, all necessary eye values are determined so that the treatment can be treatment is customized can be used. The automated laser and the surgeon need this information for precise adjustment:

  • Visual acuity
  • Spectacle strength
  • Corneal thickness
  • Corneal topography

In a consultation with our eye specialists, you will be informed about any risks of the treatment. A treatment plan that is tailored to you is also included. The safety instructions for after the operation will be explained and finally you will be able to take a Appointment for the procedure – your start to a life with the best vision.

It is in everyone’s interest that the preliminary investigation is carried out in detail. The appointment for the preliminary examination can therefore take up to two hours – This is necessary so that we can find the best possible procedure for you and answer all your questions.

The intervention
  1. Preparation for surgery

You should allow two hours for the entire procedure. Preparatory measures take some time: cleaning the face, disinfecting it and applying anesthetic eye drops for a painless treatment.

  1. Lenticels and incision

The lenticule is calculated in advance on the basis of the data obtained from the preliminary examination. It will within a few seconds The cornea is shaped using the femtosecond laser, so that the cornea changes and the visual defect is corrected. The minimum An incision of 2-3 millimeters is also made by the laser.

  1. Lenticular extraction

The minimal incision is used to remove the lenticule is removed. The incision is not treated further, as it heals on its own. Only an antibiotic is intended to prevent possible inflammation.

Aftercare

Immediately after the procedure there may be slight discomfort may occur: Burning, itching and tearing of the eyes. After just a few hours, everyday activities such as sports and showering are possible. Nevertheless, we recommend that you Rest your eyes for the next few days – This ensures that the healing process and the regeneration of the cornea are not impaired. Three Aftercare appointments with EyeLaser ensure optimal control of the healing process:

  1. One day after lenticel extraction
  2. One month after lenticel extraction
  3. Six months after lenticel extraction

Should you experience any discomfort or have any questions in the meantime, you can contact us at any time to arrange another appointment.

You will also receive some medication from us after the operation:

  • Antibiotics/cortisone against inflammation (preventive)
  • Painkillers if required
  • Eye drops incl. an individual drip plan

The entire healing process can take several weeks to make use of. However, you should be able to perceive your newly acquired vision immediately after the procedure and after three days at the latest. It may take some time for the brain has adapted to the new impressions and there are no longer fluctuations in visual acuity.

Augenuntersuchung

Costs for SmartSight / ReLEx SMILE at EyeLaser Zurich

SmartSight lenticule extraction
2500,- / Auge
  • Installment payment from 416,- /month
  • The most modern laser eye procedure
  • Safe without flap
  • Significantly better visibility on day 1
  • Warranty available for 1, 3 or 5 years

Lenticular extraction – flexible financing

Sharp vision should be accessible to as many people as possible. It is not always possible or desirable to pay the full amount for laser eye surgery. We have therefore decided to develop a Installment payment without an external bank – your chance to gain more quality of life:

  • 6-month term
  • 0 percent interest
  • 0 CHF additional costs

Monthly rate: 416,- per eye

Better quality of life through lenticel extraction:

Aptitude test
0,-

Are you suitable for lenticel extraction? Find out with our help.

Preliminary examination
0,- statt 290,-*

Thorough preliminary examinations and customized treatment plan.

*The preliminary examination is a TARMED benefit that is reimbursed by the health insurance company. If you have a treatment carried out at EyeLaser, the costs will be offset against the laser eye treatment.

ReLEx SMILE - Can health insurance cover the costs?

The assumption of costs for refractive vision correction in Switzerland can be difficult. Many health insurance companies – especially basic insurers – consider the intervention as not medically necessary. However, some case groups are an exception:

  • Demonstrable intolerance to visual aids
  • Severe visual impairment of over 10 diopters + contact lens intolerance
  • Deviating diopter values of both eyes of more than 3 diopters + contact lens intolerance

If you fall into one of these case groups, you may be entitled to partial or full assumption of costs the health insurance company. One Supplementary insurancethat covers laser eye treatments increases the chances of the costs being covered. At best, the procedure is as follows:

  1. Non-binding inquiry regarding the costs with your health insurance company.
  2. Submission of the necessary documents, applications and a cost estimate.
  3. Inquiry as to whether cost coverage is also possible with ReLEx SMILE / SmartSight.

If you require medical reports or other documents for your health insurance to cover the costs and decide to have a procedure with us, we at EyeLaser Zurich will be happy to help you.

Modernste Technik: ReLEx SMILE mit VISUMAX Femtosekundenlaser

ZEISS produces a very advanced femtosecond laser that is used for the ReLEx SMILE treatment: The VISUMAX 800. A significantly higher laser repetition rate, as well as the support of the treating surgeon through technical extras are the biggest advantages compared to the predecessor model VISUMAX 500. advantages compared to the predecessor model VISUMAX 500 model.

This is why the ReLEx SMILE method has the suffix “Pro”. No excimer laser, no scalpel, no mechanical handles – the procedure is performed entirely by the automated femtolaser.

  • Particularly precise cuts thanks to focused laser
  • Optimized contact lens, different sizes and curvatures for more comfort in use
  • Visual control options with ZEISS surgical microscope
  • Smart features for continuous monitoring of the patient’s position and the eye
  • High laser repetition rate for fast cutting
  • Gap lighting for continuous monitoring
  • Simple control and improved software

Technical data: VISUMAX 500

  • Maximum laser refresh rate: 500 kHZ
  • Wavelength: 1043 nm
  • Pulse duration: 220-580 fs

Technical data: VISUMAX 800

  • Max. Laser repetition rate: 2 MHz
  • Wavelength: 1043 nm
  • Pulse duration: 220-580 fs

After the procedure – healing process and risks of ReLEx SMILE

Quickly fit for everyday life again – The minimal incision heals quickly, allowing you to resume your usual activities quickly. Mild symptomssuch as burning, itching and watering of the eyes are possible, disappear after a short time. The healing process is supported by antibiotics, eye drops and painkillers as required.

You can enjoy your regained vision immediately after the procedure. The final vision after three days at the latest.

Initially Fluctuations in visual acuity possible. Visual acuity stabilizes after a short time, so that visual aids are no longer necessary are no longer necessary.

What are the risks associated with ReLEx SMILE?

10 years is a short period of use for a medical procedure. Nevertheless, it has already become apparent during this time that ReLEx SMILE is a Very safe procedure is. However, as with any medical procedure, ReLEx SMILE also involves some risks:

  • Over- or undercorrection
  • Post-corrections only possible with conventional methods (Femto-LASIK, Trans-PRK)
  • Complaints regarding night vision and sensitivity to glare
  • Temporary foreign body sensation and dry eyes

    Complications during removal of the lenticule

A major advantage, which also reduces the complication rate, is that no flap has to be created on the cornea.

The risk of complications is considered to be very low. However, if complications do occur, these are often problems that can be treated simply and safely or disappear on their own in the short term. All risks associated with the treatment will be discussed with your eye specialist before the procedure – Transparency is important to us here.

ReLEx SMILE is a minimally invasive form of laser eye surgery that can correct severe myopia

Find out everything you need to know about SMILE laser eye surgery below

ReLEx SMILE suitability criteria

REfractive LEnticle EXtractionis considered the latest generation of laser eye surgery. With the “keyhole method”, a flap (corneal cover) is no longer created and folded away – the procedure is performed through a tiny incision in the cornea and is therefore minimally invasive. This means that the cornea is interfered with as little as possible and the healing process is therefore very short.

Refractive lens extraction is mainly used for extremely short-sighted patients or for people with thin corneas, dry eyes or contact lens intolerance. If these criteria are not met, the same results can be achieved with Femto-LASIK surgery.

At EyeLaser we have opted for the new SmartSight lenticule extraction method from the German eye laser manufacturer SCHWIND-EYE-Tech-SOLUTIONS.

How ReLEx SMILE works

ReLEx SMILE is considered the next generation of laser eye surgery. With this “keyhole” method, no lamella (corneal flap) is folded away – the procedure is performed through a tiny incision in the cornea and is therefore minimally invasive. This means that the cornea is touched as little as possible and the healing process is therefore very short.

The femtosecond laser marks the tissue that is to be removed to improve vision. Only the femtosecond laser is used. This method is relatively new and is only used in a few laser eye clinics worldwide. EyeLaser now also offers this method exclusively for our patients in order to always be at the cutting edge of technology.

ReLEx SMILE: Advantages and disadvantages

ReLEx SMILE advantages

  • The process takes place without a corneal flap: A lenticule (a thin corneal lens) is created in the intact cornea. A minimally invasive entry point is then created. The lenticule can then be removed through this tiny opening.
  • The correction is performed exclusively with the femtosecond laser: the entire laser surgery (lenticular incision and laser) is performed in a single treatment step with the femtosecond laser.
  • Lens extraction can be performed for high myopia (short-sightedness) of up to -10 diopters.
  • Shorter treatment time: The procedure only takes a few minutes.
  • No restrictions: Everything is possible shortly after the treatment – rubbing your eyes, sports, etc.

ReLEx SMILE disadvantages

  • Long-term studies are not available: This method has only been on the market since 2011.
  • Short-sighted patients only: The application is not possible for farsightedness corrections.
  • No follow-up treatment possible: Correction of the result, i.e. a new lens extraction, is not possible. Such a treatment would only be possible with LASEK/PRK surgery, thin-lamellar femto-Lasik.
3 laser eye surgery steps to freedom from glasses & contact lenses

Laser eye surgery in Zurich with leading Lasik surgeons: Gain visual freedom with our method for exceptional laser eye surgery.

Eyelaser Lens Replacement

Contact EyeLaser

Not everyone is suitable for laser eye surgery.

The first step is to find out if your eyes are suitable. Call us or book an appointment online.

EyeLaser consultation

During a free initial consultation, we will thoroughly examine your eyes and take the time to listen to your needs and expectations. Once we’ve found the best treatment for you, you will feel confident and reassured about your next steps.

Enjoy visual freedom

Once we’ve treated you at our state-of-the-art clinic, you’ll admire our handy work as you experience exceptional natural vision – free from the limitations of glasses and contact lenses.

Eyelaser Lens Replacement

Contact EyeLaser

Not everyone is suitable for laser eye surgery.

The first step is to find out if your eyes are suitable. Call us or book an appointment online.

EyeLaser consultation

During a free initial consultation, we will thoroughly examine your eyes and take the time to listen to your needs and expectations. Once we’ve found the best treatment for you, you will feel confident and reassured about your next steps.

Enjoy visual freedom

Once we’ve treated you at our state-of-the-art clinic, you’ll admire our handy work as you experience exceptional natural vision – free from the limitations of glasses and contact lenses.

Have your eyes lasered now: Optimize your vision right now with the help of the Eyelaser eye laser practice in Zurich, Switzerland

Many people around the world have already freed themselves from annoying visual aids such as glasses and contact lenses, but not all eyes are suitable for laser eye surgery at the Swiss Eye Laser Center. Book a free initial consultation at the Zurich City Laser Eye Center right now and find out together with Dr. Victor Derhartunian FEBO and his team of ophthalmologists which laser eye treatment can best help you:

Termin vereinbaren

Have laser eye surgery now in the center of Zurich – at the Swiss Eye Laser Center. Have you finally had enough of annoying visual aids such as glasses or contact lenses?

Choose the modern treatment option that best suits you to find your optimal laser eye treatment method

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You are 20 - 39 and are fed up with glasses and contact lenses

If you’re running late looking for your glasses, if expensive contact lenses are eating up your hard-earned cash or if your glasses are slipping, falling or fogging up, it’s time to find a better solution.

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You are 40 - 55+ and feel old and uncomfortable with reading glasses

Are your eyes struggling to keep up with your lifestyle? Perhaps you have a pair of glasses for every occasion, but when you need them, they are either broken or have disappeared?

Discover the best treatment that will free you from the discomfort and hassle of reading glasses

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You are over 55 and have weak and blurred vision

If your vision is cloudy or blurry (even with glasses), if colors appear dull or faded, or if you have increasing difficulty seeing at night, it is likely that you have cataracts.

Discover the best treatment to restore your visual acuity

(AND eliminate the need for glasses!)

Testimonials

You are 20 - 39 and are fed up with glasses and contact lenses

If you’re running late looking for your glasses, if expensive contact lenses are eating up your hard-earned cash or if your glasses are slipping, falling or fogging up, it’s time to find a better solution.

Discover the best treatment to free you from the limitations of glasses and contact lenses

Testimonials

You are 40 - 55+ and feel old and uncomfortable with reading glasses

Are your eyes struggling to keep up with your lifestyle? Perhaps you have a pair of glasses for every occasion, but when you need them, they are either broken or have disappeared?

Discover the best treatment that will free you from the discomfort and hassle of reading glasses

Testimonials

You are over 55 and have weak and blurred vision

If your vision is cloudy or blurry (even with glasses), if colors appear dull or faded, or if you have increasing difficulty seeing at night, it is likely that you have cataracts.

Discover the best treatment to restore your visual acuity

(AND eliminate the need for glasses!)

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Links to reliable sources about SmartSight

You can find more information about SmartSight under the following links

SmartSight Minimally invasive lenticule extraction

SmartSight is a modern femtosecond laser procedure for the refractive correction of myopia and astigmatism without a flap. Click here to read more.

Refractive surgery to correct myopia: SMILE procedure achieves stable 5-year results

Five years ago, data on the correction of mild to moderate myopia using a new refractive surgery method on a larger patient population was presented for the first time: small incision lenticule extraction, or SMILE for short. Click here to read more.

PRK, LASIK and SMILE: An assessment of laser treatment for defective vision

Studies show comparable refractive results after PRK and SMILE as well as a comparison between Femto-LASIK and SMILE. Click here to read more.

SmartSight oder ReLEx SMILE (Pro)?

There are three methods of lenticel extraction that have become established worldwide and are used most frequently: SmartSight, Clear and ReLEx SMILE (Pro). Each of these methods is effective and medically recognized.

The mechanism of action and effectiveness of these treatments are all similar. The different lasers used show only subtle differences. Ultimately, the Success of the treatment also depends on other factors: experience and expertise of the eye specialist, individually suitable treatment method, modern medical equipment at the clinic.

SmartSight at EyeLaser: Make an appointment now

For us at EyeLaser, there are several reasons in favor of the SmartSight method: a procedure that is gentle on the tissue, extensive technical equipment and convenient use of the SCHWIND ATOS.

  • Secure method thanks to eye tracking and many other features
  • Maximum precision results with the Femto laser
  • High success rate with low complication rate

SmartSight can give you a significantly improved quality of life find out during a consultation whether SmartSight is your start to a new life without new life without visual aids.

Questions and answers about ReLEx SMILE

Is ReLEx SMILE better than LASIK?

ReLEx SMILE treatment is not yet possible for the correction of long-sightedness. Femto-LASIK or another method must be used here. Lenticule extraction is recommended for many other people with defective vision. In contrast to Femto-LASIK, no flap is created. All complications associated with a flap are eliminated. Tissue-friendly, precise, safe treatment – with the femtosecond laser at ReLEx SMILE.

Lenticule extraction or LASIK – during the preliminary examination, we work with our specialists to find out which method is suitable for you and your eyes.

How much does ReLEx SMILE cost?

Depending on the provider, the ReLEx SMILE method can cost between 1,800 and 3,000 euros per eye. However, these costs are disproportionate to the quality of life you gain. A one-off expenditure leads to a lasting improvement in vision – more enjoyment of life.

Lenticular extractions are performed at EyeLaser using the SmartSight method. The question of our prices is therefore superfluous. In principle, it can be said that SmartSight and ReLEx SMILE are very similar in terms of price – provided that similar conditions are met in terms of medical equipment, the expertise of the surgeons and the location. When comparing several providers, pay attention to possible additional costs that could arise from preliminary examinations or follow-up examinations, for example.

When does full vision occur with ReLEx SMILE?

Immediately after a ReLEx SMILE procedure, an improvement in vision is noticeable. The brain must first adapt to the change in visual perception. It can therefore take up to three days for full vision to develop.

What to look out for after ReLEx SMILE?

Immediately after the procedure, the eyes should be protected and sunglasses should be worn if necessary. Driving should be avoided on the same day; swimming pools, saunas and solariums should be avoided for two weeks. In contrast to other methods, light sports can be performed immediately after the procedure – showering is also permitted. However, caution is required with regard to work: you should stay away from workplaces with high levels of dust and dirt or where there is a particular risk to the eyes for several days. Other activities may be taken up after just a few days.

You will receive detailed instructions on safety measures from your attending physician in advance of the procedure.

Pain with ReLEx SMILE?

ReLEx SMILE – like all other methods of lenticule extraction – is completely painless. Anesthetic eye drops, which are applied before the procedure, ensure that you do not feel any pain. Occasionally a feeling of pressure is felt. As soon as the anesthetic no longer works, the eyes may water, itch or burn – however, these symptoms will subside within a very short time.

What is the difference between ZEISS VISUMAX 500 and 800?

The ZEISS VISUMAX 800 is the successor to the VISUMAX 500. The procedure is the same for both femtosecond lasers. Nevertheless, the newer VISUMAX 800 offers a number of technical functions that ensure even safer, more precise and simpler treatment. In addition, the laser repetition rate is significantly higher, which means that the procedure can be performed more quickly. Successful lenticel extraction is possible with both methods.

Discover which eye treatment is best for you with this 1-minute quiz

Things like age, eye shape, history and lifestyle make an eye treatment perfect for one person, but not another. Find out which treatment (if any) could free you from glasses and contacts

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Discover our laser eye surgeons in the heart of Zurich

Dr. Victor Derhartunian
Ophthalmologist, specialist in refractive surgery
FEBO

Having learned his craft from the two pioneers of laser surgery, Dr. Victor Derhartunian is one of the leading surgeons in Europe. The senior eye surgeon at EyeLaser in Zurich can advise his patients in 5 languages.

LEARN MORE
Ophthalmologist and eye surgeon
FEBO

Since 2024, Dr. Valery Lenzt Wittwer joins the EyeLaser Zurich team. He specializes in lens surgery and enables patients to live without cataracts and/or visual defects through cataract surgery and ICL lens implantation.

Learn more
Dr. Victor Derhartunian
Ophthalmologist, specialist in refractive surgery
FEBO

Having learned his craft from the two pioneers of laser surgery, Dr. Victor Derhartunian is one of the leading surgeons in Europe. The senior eye surgeon at EyeLaser in Zurich can advise his patients in 5 languages.

LEARN MORE
Ophthalmologist and eye surgeon
FEBO

Since 2024, Dr. Valery Lenzt Wittwer joins the EyeLaser Zurich team. He specializes in lens surgery and enables patients to live without cataracts and/or visual defects through cataract surgery and ICL lens implantation.

Learn more