SMILE takes a new approach to correcting your vision!
SMILE Laser Eye Surgery in San Francisco & Bay Area
“My SMILE procedure with Dr. Hyver was quick and easy, and I love not having to
wear my contact lenses and glasses anymore!”
Bay Area Orthodontist and
SMILE vision patient, Dr. Wendan Li
SMILE is one of the world's most popular treatment solutions for nearsightedness and astigmatism
SMILE is one of the world's most popular treatment solutions for nearsightedness and astigmatism
SMILE is one of the newest forms of laser vision correction, with more than three million SMILE procedures performed worldwide. Just like LASIK and PRK, SMILE is designed to correct your nearsightedness and astigmatism to help free you of your glasses and contact lenses. But compared to these other procedures, SMILE takes a different surgical approach, employing only a single femtosecond laser for your treatment.
“It’s so amazing to wake-up and see clearly, free of my glasses and contact lenses, thanks to Dr Hyver! ”
University Administrator and
SMILE vision patient, Claire Shaw
SMILE is one of the world's most popular treatment solutions for nearsightedness and astigmatism
SMILE is one of the newest forms of laser vision correction, with more than three million SMILE procedures performed worldwide. Just like LASIK and PRK, SMILE is designed to correct your nearsightedness and astigmatism to help free you of your glasses and contact lenses. But compared to these other procedures, SMILE takes a different surgical approach, employing only a single femtosecond laser for your treatment.
“It’s so amazing to wake-up and see clearly, free of my
glasses and contact lenses, thanks to Dr Hyver!”
University Administrator and
SMILE vision patient, Claire Shaw
What Is SMILE Laser Eye Surgery?
The SMILE procedure is performed using the ZEISS VisuMax femtosecond laser, the first FDA-approved platform for SMILE treatment in the United States. The ZEISS VisuMax received FDA clearance for the correction of nearsightedness and astigmatism in 2018, and Dr. Hyver acquired the system shortly after to begin offering this treatment to patients across the Bay Area.
What sets SMILE apart from other laser vision correction procedures is its single-laser, minimally invasive approach. Unlike LASIK, which requires creating a corneal flap, SMILE accesses the cornea through a tiny 2 to 4mm incision. This means:
- Less disruption to corneal nerves and collagen fibers
- A lower risk of post-operative dry eye
- A faster, more comfortable recovery for most patients
How the ZEISS ReLEx SMILE Procedure Works
Understanding how the SMILE procedure works can help you feel confident and informed going into your consultation. Here is what to expect from start to finish:
- Anesthetic eye drops are applied to numb the eye completely, ensuring the procedure is entirely painless.
- The ZEISS VisuMax laser delivers precise pulses to the center of the cornea, creating microscopic bubbles far smaller than the width of a human hair.
- These bubbles map and isolate a lenticule, a small lens-shaped piece of corneal tissue targeted for removal.
- The surgeon removes the lenticule through the tiny side incision, reshaping the cornea and correcting your visual error.
Because the laser passes harmlessly through the upper corneal layers and targets only the specific sublayer where the lenticule is located, surrounding tissue remains completely undisturbed. The entire procedure takes just 15 minutes, and both eyes are treated in the same appointment.
Dr. Hyver performs all SMILE procedures at ScottHyver Visioncare on the ZEISS VisuMax system, bringing years of experience and a commitment to precision and patient safety to every treatment.
Dr. Hyver performs SMILE laser vision correction on the ZEISS Visumax femtosecond laser system. During the SMILE procedure, Dr. Hyver uses the Visumax to create a small, lens-shaped piece of tissue, called a “lenticule,” within the middle layer of the cornea. This incision allows the lenticule to be extracted through a small incision on the side of the cornea (hence the SMILE acronym: Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), thus completing the SMILE surgery.
In creating and removing this precisely-shaped lenticule, Dr. Hyver reshapes your cornea, correcting your visual error. From start to finish, the SMILE procedure takes just 15 minutes and is generally comfortable.
The ZEISS Visumax is the first FDA-approved platform for SMILE treatment in San Jose
The ZEISS Visumax is the first FDA-approved platform for SMILE treatment in San Jose
SMILE laser eye surgery was first performed in Germany in 2007. The idea was to focus the energy of a femtosecond laser, which emits pulses at extremely high frequencies, at a predetermined depth in the patient’s cornea to incise the lenticule, leaving the upper layers and surface of the cornea undisturbed. This method results in a less invasive surgical procedure.
The ZEISS Visumax femtosecond laser was the first platform cleared by the FDA for SMILE surgery, gaining approval for the correction of nearsightedness and astigmatism in 2018. Shortly after, Dr. Hyver acquired the Visumax laser and began performing SMILE treatment.
Benefits of SMILE Vision Correction
The growing popularity of SMILE comes down to a combination of proven results, reduced invasiveness, and faster recovery compared to other laser eye surgery options.
- Minimally Invasive: The 2 to 4mm incision is far smaller than the flap created during LASIK, reducing trauma to the cornea and minimizing the risk of complications.
- Lower Dry Eye Risk: SMILE avoids cutting the corneal nerves that a LASIK flap would disrupt, resulting in significantly less post-operative dry eye. This makes it particularly well-suited for patients who already struggle with dry eyes.
- Outstanding Visual Outcomes: Clinical studies show that 99% of SMILE recipients achieved 20/40 vision or better within six months of surgery. The vast majority achieve 20/20 or better.
- Single Laser System: The entire procedure is completed with one femtosecond laser, with no need for a second excimer laser as required in LASIK, simplifying the process and reducing variables.
- Fast Treatment Time: Both eyes are treated in under 15 minutes, making it one of the most efficient vision correction options available.
- Quick Return to Daily Life: Most patients find their vision is clear enough to resume normal activities within 24 hours.
- No Corneal Flap: The absence of a flap eliminates the risk of flap-related complications during recovery or from future eye trauma, which can be an ongoing concern with LASIK.
Who Is a Candidate for SMILE Eye Surgery?
Not everyone is automatically a candidate for every type of laser eye surgery, which is why a thorough consultation with your surgeon is essential. SMILE may be the right choice for you if you:
- Have nearsightedness ranging from -1.00 to -10.00 diopters
- Have astigmatism up to 3.00 diopters
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have had a stable prescription for at least one year
- Have no active eye conditions or illnesses affecting your eyes
- Have thinner corneas that may make you less suitable for LASIK
- Have a history of dry eyes
During your initial consultation at ScottHyver Visioncare, you will meet directly with Dr. Hyver, who will evaluate your eyes, review your prescription history, and determine whether SMILE, LASIK, PRK, or another procedure best suits your individual needs and lifestyle.
SMILE vs. LASIK vs. PRK: How Do They Compare?
All three procedures are effective and FDA-approved, but they differ in technique, recovery, and suitability depending on each patient’s eye health.
| Feature | SMILE | LASIK | PRK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corneal access | 2 to 4mm incision | Flap creation | Surface removal |
| Dry eye risk | Lower | Moderate | Moderate |
| Recovery speed | Fast (within 24 hrs) | Fast (within 24 hrs) | Slower (several weeks) |
| Flap required | No | Yes | No |
| Suitable for thin corneas | Often yes | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| FDA-approved | Yes (2018) | Yes | Yes |
SMILE is generally considered less invasive than LASIK because no flap is created. For patients with dry eyes or thinner corneas, SMILE is frequently the recommended choice as it causes less disruption to the corneal surface and nerves. Compared to PRK, SMILE typically offers a faster recovery timeline for patients who need to return to normal activities quickly.
What to Expect During SMILE Recovery
What to Expect During SMILE Recovery
One of the most appealing aspects of SMILE is how quickly most patients recover. Here is a general timeline:
First 4 Hours
Vision may appear hazy, similar to looking through a fogged lens. Eye stinging, scratchiness, tearing, and light sensitivity are common and typically begin to ease within a few hours.
After 24 Hours
Most discomfort subsides significantly. Vision usually reaches around 80 to 90% of its expected clarity, which is sufficient for most patients to resume normal daily activities including work and light physical tasks.
First Week
Continue using prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops as directed. Avoid strenuous exercise, rubbing your eyes, and swimming during this period.
First Month
Vision continues to sharpen gradually as the cornea completes its healing process. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and protect your eyes from excessive wind and direct sunlight.
Long Term
Your surgeon may recommend ongoing use of lubricating eye drops for continued comfort. Regular check-ups with your eye doctor will help ensure your vision remains stable over time.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, modern laser vision correction procedures including SMILE have a strong safety profile and high patient satisfaction rates among appropriately selected candidates.
Post-Operative Care
As part of your SMILE laser eye surgery aftercare, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. You may be prescribed eye drops to help with dryness and protect your eyes from infection. Many patients also wonder about exercise after smile eye surgery, as physical activity should be avoided during the initial recovery period.
It’s important to give your eyes the time they need to heal properly. For some, it may take several weeks for their vision to stabilize fully. Understanding how long does it take to recover from smile eye surgery and following a proper recovery plan will ensure that your vision improves without complications.
Cost of SMILE Eye Surgery
The cost of SMILE laser eye surgery depends on several factors, including your clinic location, the technology used, and the experience of your surgeon. In the Bay Area, including San Francisco, San Jose, and Santa Clara, the investment reflects access to state-of-the-art technology like the ZEISS VisuMax and the expertise of board-certified surgeons.
It is worth weighing the upfront cost against the long-term savings on glasses, contact lenses, and associated eye care products. For many patients, SMILE represents a significant quality-of-life improvement that pays dividends for decades.
During your free consultation at ScottHyver Visioncare, you can discuss financing options, available payment plans, and whether your health insurance provides any coverage toward the procedure.
ZEISS ReLEx SMILE in San Francisco, San Jose and San Ramon
ScottHyver Visioncare is proud to offer ZEISS ReLEx SMILE across the Bay Area, with conveniently located clinics in Daly City (serving San Francisco), Santa Clara (serving San Jose), and San Ramon. Every patient meets directly with their surgeon at the initial consultation, ensuring Dr. Hyver can thoroughly evaluate your eyes, answer your questions, and create a fully personalized surgical plan around your vision goals and eye health.
Meet Our Team
Dr. Scott Hyver
Dr. Scott Hyver
Dr. Hyver founded our Santa Clara office in 2000 and spent over two decades helping patients across Silicon Valley achieve clear, lasting vision. His expertise in LASIK, SMILE, and PRK established him as one of the Bay Area’s most trusted refractive surgeons. As the official eye doctor for the 49ers, he brought exceptional precision and care to every patient he treated. Dr. Hyver retired in 2025, leaving behind a legacy of excellence that continues to guide our team. Learn more about Dr. Hyver.
Dr. Amy L. Barrion
Dr. Barrion is an experienced optometrist who specializes in pre-operative and post-operative care for vision correction procedures. She is dedicated to ensuring that each patient has a smooth treatment process and long-term success. Read Dr. Barrion’s full bio.
Dr. Robert T. Lin
Dr. Lin is a respected ophthalmologist with extensive experience in refractive and cataract surgery. He brings advanced knowledge in innovative techniques such as Contoura LASIK and Customized PRK. Read Dr. Lin’s bio.
Dr. Gregory H. Phan
Dr. Phan provides comprehensive eye care with a focus on laser vision correction procedures. His experience with advanced diagnostic platforms ensures precise treatment planning for each patient. Read Dr. Phan’s bio.
Dr. Jack Tian
Dr. Tian specializes in both general eye care and surgical support for advanced refractive treatments. He is committed to delivering safe and effective outcomes for patients in Santa Clara and beyond. Read Dr. Tian’s bio.
SMILE Eye Surgery FAQs
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a laser eye surgery procedure designed to correct nearsightedness and astigmatism. Unlike traditional LASIK, which creates a flap in the cornea, SMILE uses a single femtosecond laser to create and remove a small tissue (called a lenticule) from the middle layer of the cornea, correcting the vision error.
After SMILE eye surgery, many patients experience hazy vision for the first few hours. Most patients see significant improvement within a day and can resume normal activities within a few days. Full recovery may take a few weeks, with vision gradually improving.
Yes, SMILE eye surgery is a safe and FDA-approved procedure for correcting nearsightedness and astigmatism. It has a high success rate, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better. As with any surgery, there are some risks, but they are rare and typically involve temporary symptoms like dryness or glare.
Yes, SMILE is effective for treating astigmatism. The procedure can reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism in the same way it corrects nearsightedness.
Insurance coverage for SMILE eye surgery varies depending on the provider and policy. It is considered an elective procedure, so many insurance plans do not cover it. However, some plans may offer partial coverage, or you may be able to use flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) to cover the cost.
The cost of SMILE eye surgery varies depending on location, the eye doctor’s expertise, and the technology used. Typically, the SMILE eye surgery price is similar to that of LASIK but may vary slightly. For example, the SMILE eye surgery cost in San Jose or Santa Clara may be higher due to the location and specialized technology.
SMILE recovery time is generally quicker than traditional LASIK surgery. Most patients notice significant improvement in their vision within a day, with full recovery typically occurring within a few weeks. Your eyes may feel dry during the initial recovery phase, but this is temporary.
It is recommended to avoid intense physical activity for the first week following SMILE surgery to allow your eyes to heal properly. After the initial recovery period, you can gradually return to your regular exercise routine.
Some common side effects of SMILE eye surgery include dry eyes, light sensitivity, and glare or halos around lights, especially at night. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve within a few weeks as your eyes heal.
The effects of SMILE eye surgery are permanent, but your eyes may continue to change with age, so some patients may still need reading glasses as they get older. However, the vision correction from SMILE typically lasts for many years.
Before your SMILE procedure, you should avoid wearing contact lenses for at least two weeks, as they can alter the shape of your cornea. Additionally, make sure to follow all pre-operative instructions from your surgeon to ensure the best outcome.
Yes, SMILE is a great alternative to LASIK for patients who may not be candidates for LASIK or those seeking a less invasive method of vision correction.
Schedule your free SMILE consultation
with us at any one of our three Bay Area offices.
DALY CITY
2001 Junipero Serra Blvd
Suite 161
Daly City, CA 94014
SANTA CLARA
2901 Tasman Drive
Suite 208
Santa Clara, CA 95054
SAN RAMON
210 Porter Drive
Suite 215
San Ramon, CA 94583
To schedule your free consultation with Dr. Hyver, or if you have any questions, please complete the following:
