{"id":1904,"date":"2026-10-20T08:53:27","date_gmt":"2026-10-20T08:53:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/relex-smile\/"},"modified":"2026-10-20T12:58:12","modified_gmt":"2026-10-20T12:58:12","slug":"relex-smile","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/relex-smile\/","title":{"rendered":"ReLEx SMILE"},"content":{"rendered":"<!-- Hero (Photo + summary card) Start -->\n<section class=\"page-hero\" id=\"top\">\n\t<div class=\"phero-inner pad with-media container-fluid\"><div class=\"row\">\n\t\t<div class=\"phero-left col-12 col-lg-7\">\n\t\t\t<div data-hero-in><ol class=\"crumbs\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/\">Home: eye surgery in Istanbul<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/treatments\/\">All eye treatments<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/\">Laser eye surgery in Turkey<\/a><\/li><li><span aria-current=\"page\">ReLEx SMILE<\/span><\/li><\/ol><\/div>\t\t\t<h1 class=\"t64 hero-title phero-title\" data-lines>ReLEx SMILE in Istanbul: Flap-Free Keyhole Laser Eye Surgery<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"t22 phero-lead\" data-hero-in>ReLEx SMILE is keyhole laser eye surgery without a flap, and in Istanbul it is planned and performed by <strong>Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131 or Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram<\/strong>. Your surgeon measures your corneas before recommending anything, you see the full price in writing before you travel, and a personal interpreter stays with you from your first examination to your final check-up.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"phero-ctas\" data-hero-in><a class=\"pill pill-white\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/free-consultation\/\"><span class=\"pill-dot\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><span class=\"pill-label\">Get a free ReLEx SMILE assessment<\/span><\/a><a class=\"pill pill-line\" href=\"https:\/\/wa.me\/90123456789\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span class=\"pill-dot\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><span class=\"pill-label\">WhatsApp us: +90 123 456 789<\/span><\/a><\/div><ul class=\"phero-meta\" data-hero-in><li><svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg>Medically reviewed by <span class=\"ph\">{{surgeon}}<\/span> \u00b7 Last reviewed <span class=\"ph\">{{date}}<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"phero-right has-media col-12 col-lg-5\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"phero-media\" data-hero-in><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/excimer-laser-eye-surgery-suite-819x1024.webp\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Excimer laser suite for laser eye surgery\" fetchpriority=\"high\" srcset=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/excimer-laser-eye-surgery-suite-819x1024.webp 819w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/excimer-laser-eye-surgery-suite-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/excimer-laser-eye-surgery-suite-768x960.webp 768w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/excimer-laser-eye-surgery-suite.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"inshort\" data-hero-in><p>ReLEx SMILE is flap-free laser eye surgery. A single femtosecond laser shapes a thin disc of tissue (a lenticule) inside the cornea, and the surgeon removes it through an opening of about 2\u20133 mm. It corrects short sight, with or without astigmatism. In Istanbul, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131 or Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram performs it from <span class=\"ph\">{{\u00a3 price}}<\/span> for both eyes; most patients stay 3\u20135 days, and hotel and transfers are extra.<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<!-- Hero (Photo + summary card) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Heading (Intro: heading left, text right) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"what-is-relex-smile-laser-eye-surgery\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"intro-grid row\"><div class=\"intro-side col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48\" data-reveal>What is ReLEx SMILE laser eye surgery?<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"copy prose col-12\"><p data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE is a form of laser vision correction that reshapes the cornea from the inside instead of under a flap. ReLEx stands for refractive lenticule extraction, and SMILE for small incision lenticule extraction. Doctors now group SMILE and similar methods under the name keratorefractive lenticule extraction (KLEx), and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) lists lenticule extraction as one of the three main types of laser eye surgery used in the UK, alongside LASIK and surface laser (PRK, LASEK, Trans-PRK).<\/p>\n<p data-reveal>The cornea is the clear window at the front of your eye, and it does about two-thirds of your eye&#8217;s focusing. Making it slightly flatter in the centre corrects short sight; making it flatter in one direction corrects astigmatism. ReLEx SMILE does this in three steps:<\/p>\n<ol data-reveal>\n<li><strong>The femtosecond laser shapes a lenticule.<\/strong> While you look at a target light, the laser places millions of tiny pulses inside the cornea, outlining a thin, lens-shaped disc of tissue whose thickness matches your prescription. It also makes a small side opening of about 2\u20133 mm.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Your surgeon removes the lenticule.<\/strong> Through the small opening, the surgeon gently separates the lenticule and lifts it out.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The cornea settles into its new shape.<\/strong> With the lenticule gone, the front of the cornea is flatter and focuses light correctly. No flap is lifted, so there is nothing to lay back and nothing that can shift later.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p data-reveal>The RCOphth describes lenticule extraction as being &#8220;like LASIK without the LASIK flap&#8221;: slightly more tissue is removed, from slightly deeper in the cornea, and the end results are similar to those of LASIK and surface laser. Unlike Femto-LASIK, which needs two lasers (a femtosecond laser for the flap and an excimer laser for the reshaping), ReLEx SMILE uses only one femtosecond laser for the whole correction.<\/p>\n<p data-reveal><strong>A short history.<\/strong> According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology&#8217;s EyeWiki, an earlier lenticule method called FLEx was introduced in 2007, and SMILE followed in September 2011 on the Zeiss VisuMax laser. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved SMILE for short sight on 13 September 2016 and extended the approval to short sight with astigmatism on 4 October 2018. By 2026 it is an established method in Europe, Asia and the US.<\/p>\n<p data-reveal><strong>Technology we use:<\/strong> <span class=\"ph\">{{laser platform}}<\/span>, in a fully equipped, Ministry of Health\u2013licensed operating theatre in Istanbul. Before any decision, your examination includes corneal topography and tomography, a corneal thickness measurement and a dry-eye assessment.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Heading (Intro: heading left, text right) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Table (Table on a dark panel) Start -->\n<section class=\"panel dark\" id=\"relex-smile-vs-smile-pro-what-is-the-difference\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t\t<h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE vs SMILE Pro: what is the difference?<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p class=\"t22 sec-lead\" data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE and SMILE Pro are the same operation on two generations of the same laser. Both remove a lenticule through a small opening, without a flap. ReLEx SMILE was first performed on the Zeiss VisuMax 500; SMILE Pro is the upgrade on the faster VisuMax 800.<\/p>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tbl-flow\"><div class=\"tbl-wrap\" data-reveal><table class=\"tbl rsp\"><thead><tr><th scope=\"col\"><\/th><th scope=\"col\">ReLEx SMILE (VisuMax 500)<\/th><th scope=\"col\">SMILE Pro (VisuMax 800)<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><th scope=\"row\">Principle<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE (VisuMax 500)\">Lenticule removed through a 2\u20133 mm opening; no flap<\/td><td data-label=\"SMILE Pro (VisuMax 800)\">The same<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Laser time per eye<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE (VisuMax 500)\">Longer than on the VisuMax 800<\/td><td data-label=\"SMILE Pro (VisuMax 800)\">About 8\u201310 seconds (EyeWiki)<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Centring the treatment<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE (VisuMax 500)\">Set manually by the surgeon<\/td><td data-label=\"SMILE Pro (VisuMax 800)\">CentraLign assistant helps the surgeon centre the treatment<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Correcting eye rotation (important for astigmatism)<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE (VisuMax 500)\">Adjusted manually<\/td><td data-label=\"SMILE Pro (VisuMax 800)\">OcuLign assistant helps correct the eye&#8217;s rotation<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Set-up<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE (VisuMax 500)\">Original VisuMax design<\/td><td data-label=\"SMILE Pro (VisuMax 800)\">Two separate robotic arms for the laser head and the microscope<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Visual results<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE (VisuMax 500)\">Well established since 2011<\/td><td data-label=\"SMILE Pro (VisuMax 800)\">In a 2025 comparison of 87 eyes, three-month vision was comparable on the two lasers<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><p data-reveal>What this means for you: the faster laser shortens the time you need to keep still, and the assistants support precise alignment, but the published results so far are similar. The surgeon&#8217;s planning and your corneal measurements matter more than the laser&#8217;s name. Your surgeon tells you which laser will treat your eyes before you book.<\/p><div class=\"links-row\" data-reveal><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/smile-pro\/\">SMILE Pro in Istanbul on the VisuMax 800 <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Table (Table on a dark panel) End -->\n\n\n<!-- FAQ (Question and answer rows) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"who-is-relex-smile-suitable-for\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t\t<h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>Who is ReLEx SMILE suitable for?<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p class=\"t22 sec-lead\" data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE suits adults with short sight, with or without astigmatism, whose prescription is stable and whose corneas are healthy and thick enough. The RCOphth says you are most likely to be suitable for laser vision correction if you are <strong>over 18<\/strong> and your prescription has changed by <strong>no more than 0.5 dioptres in the last two years<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"prose sec-pre\"><div class=\"tbl-wrap\" data-reveal><table class=\"tbl rsp\"><thead><tr><th scope=\"col\">Prescription<\/th><th scope=\"col\">ReLEx SMILE<\/th><th scope=\"col\">All laser vision correction (RCOphth guide)<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><th scope=\"row\">Short sight (myopia)<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE\">Yes. FDA-approved range: \u22121.00 to \u221210.00 D<\/td><td data-label=\"All laser vision correction (RCOphth guide)\">up to \u221210.00 D<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Astigmatism (with short sight)<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE\">Yes. FDA-approved range: \u22120.75 to \u22123.00 D<\/td><td data-label=\"All laser vision correction (RCOphth guide)\">up to \u00b16.00 D<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Long sight (hyperopia)<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE\">Not FDA-approved; usually treated with Femto-LASIK, surface laser or a lens instead<\/td><td data-label=\"All laser vision correction (RCOphth guide)\">up to +4.00 D<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><p data-reveal class=\"note-sm\">The FDA range applies to patients aged 22 and over in the US. Surgeons elsewhere may treat outside it after a full assessment; your surgeon explains what applies to your eyes.<\/p>\n<p data-reveal>EyeWiki notes that, compared with LASIK, lenticule extraction is often preferred for people with <strong>existing dry eye, higher short-sighted prescriptions, contact sports or jobs with a risk of eye injury<\/strong>, and larger pupils.<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qa-list\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qa-row\" data-reveal><div class=\"row\"><h3 class=\"qa-q col-12 col-lg-4\">Can ReLEx SMILE correct astigmatism?<\/h3><div class=\"qa-a prose col-12 col-lg-8\"><p data-reveal>Yes. ReLEx SMILE treats short sight with astigmatism in the same procedure; the FDA-approved range covers astigmatism from \u22120.75 to \u22123.00 D. One caveat: a meta-analysis summarised on EyeWiki found a slight tendency towards under-correction of low to moderate astigmatism (up to 2.00 D) with SMILE compared with LASIK. Your surgeon allows for this when planning, and lines the treatment up with your eye&#8217;s exact rotation, because astigmatism has a direction (its axis).<\/p><div class=\"links-row\" data-reveal><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-tools\/astigmatism-test\/\">Check yourself with our astigmatism test <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qa-row\" data-reveal><div class=\"row\"><h3 class=\"qa-q col-12 col-lg-4\">When ReLEx SMILE is not the right choice<\/h3><div class=\"qa-a prose col-12 col-lg-8\"><p data-reveal>The FDA lists these reasons not to have SMILE:<\/p>\n<ul data-reveal>\n<li>keratoconus or an abnormal corneal shape on topography, or a suspicion of it<\/li>\n<li>a cornea too thin to leave at least 250 microns of untreated tissue under the treatment<\/li>\n<li>a prescription that is still changing<\/li>\n<li>severe dry eye<\/li>\n<li>active eye infection or inflammation, or a recent herpes eye infection<\/li>\n<li>active autoimmune or connective-tissue disease, uncontrolled diabetes or uncontrolled glaucoma<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-reveal>Pregnancy and breastfeeding are also reasons to wait. If your scans suggest keratoconus, the answer is not laser at all: your case goes to our cornea specialist (see the surgeon box).<\/p>\n<p data-reveal><strong>Before your examination,<\/strong> stop wearing contact lenses so your cornea returns to its natural shape. The FDA advises 2 weeks for soft lenses, 3 weeks for toric soft or rigid gas-permeable lenses and 4 weeks for hard lenses. Your coordinator confirms the timing for your lenses.<\/p><div class=\"links-row\" data-reveal><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-suitability-test\/\">Am I suitable for laser eye surgery? Take the 2-minute quiz <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- FAQ (Question and answer rows) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Heading (Intro: heading left, text right) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"is-relex-smile-better-than-lasik\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"intro-grid row\"><div class=\"intro-side col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48\" data-reveal>Is ReLEx SMILE better than LASIK?<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"copy prose col-12\"><p data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE is not better than LASIK for everyone; the evidence shows similar vision, with some advantages for the eye surface and some trade-offs. Here is what the research says.<\/p>\n<ul data-reveal>\n<li><strong>Vision results are equivalent.<\/strong> A 2016 meta-analysis of 12 studies (1,076 eyes) in <em>PLoS One<\/em> found no significant differences between SMILE and Femto-LASIK in the share of eyes seeing 20\/20 or better without glasses, in accuracy of the correction, or in loss of sharpness, up to six months after surgery. The RCOphth states that visual results at three months are equally good for all types of laser vision correction.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dry-eye symptoms tend to be milder.<\/strong> SMILE cuts fewer corneal nerves because there is no flap. A second 2016 meta-analysis (568 eyes) found that dry eye after both methods is usually temporary, but symptom scores and tear-film stability were better after SMILE at one, three and six months. EyeWiki summarises newer studies with the same direction.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Corneal strength.<\/strong> EyeWiki notes that the upper layers of the cornea carry about 60% of its tensile strength, and that SMILE preserves corneal biomechanics better than LASIK and comparably to PRK. That does not make SMILE safe for weak or keratoconic corneas.<\/li>\n<li><strong>No flap to dislodge.<\/strong> This is why people who play contact sports or whose jobs carry a risk of eye injury often ask for it.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recovery of sharp vision is a little slower.<\/strong> The RCOphth says visual recovery after lenticule extraction may be slightly slower than after LASIK.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Touch-ups are different.<\/strong> If a small correction is needed later, it is often done with surface laser (PRK) rather than by repeating SMILE.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Narrower range.<\/strong> SMILE treats short sight and astigmatism; LASIK also treats long sight.<\/li>\n<\/ul><div class=\"links-row\" data-reveal><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/lasik\/\">LASIK and Femto-LASIK in Istanbul <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Heading (Intro: heading left, text right) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Table (Table on a tinted panel) Start -->\n<section class=\"panel\" id=\"how-much-does-relex-smile-eye-surgery-cost-in-turkey\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t\t<h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>How much does ReLEx SMILE eye surgery cost in Turkey?<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p class=\"t22 sec-lead\" data-reveal><strong>At Laser Istanbul Clinic, ReLEx SMILE starts from <span class=\"ph\">{{\u00a3 price}}<\/span> for both eyes.<\/strong> Your surgeon confirms your exact price in writing after reviewing your prescription and scans, before you book anything.<\/p>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tbl-flow\"><p data-reveal><strong>Typical published prices for SMILE \/ SMILE Pro, both eyes (2025\u201326):<\/strong><\/p><div class=\"tbl-wrap\" data-reveal><table class=\"tbl rsp\"><thead><tr><th scope=\"col\">Where<\/th><th scope=\"col\">Typical price range<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><th scope=\"row\">UK private clinics<\/th><td data-label=\"Typical price range\">\u00a34,400\u20137,600<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Germany private clinics<\/th><td data-label=\"Typical price range\">\u20ac2,800\u20135,200<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">USA<\/th><td data-label=\"Typical price range\">$5,000\u20138,000<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Istanbul (published package prices)<\/th><td data-label=\"Typical price range\">about $2,000\u20133,450<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\"><strong>Istanbul with Laser Istanbul Clinic<\/strong><\/th><td data-label=\"Typical price range\"><strong>from <span class=\"ph\">{{\u00a3 price}}<\/span><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><p class=\"note-sm\" data-reveal>UK, German, US and Istanbul figures are typical ranges published by clinics and price-comparison sites in 2025\u201326, not quotes. Comparing the middle of each range, SMILE in Istanbul costs about 66% less than in the UK. Many published Istanbul prices are packages that include a hotel; ours do not, so you can compare the treatment cost like for like.<\/p><div class=\"list-card\" data-reveal><h3>Your ReLEx SMILE price includes:<\/h3><ul class=\"check-list\"><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span>full pre-operative eye examination and scans with your surgeon<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span>ReLEx SMILE on both eyes by your named surgeon<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span>medication and eye drops for your recovery<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span>follow-up checks in Istanbul with the same surgeon<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span>a personal interpreter, a dedicated coordinator and remote follow-up after you return home<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div><p data-reveal><strong>Not included:<\/strong> flights, hotel and airport transfers. Hotel and transfers are a separate charge, and we can arrange them for you if you ask. In the UK, the RCOphth notes that laser vision correction is not available on the NHS and is not covered by private health insurance, so most patients pay privately wherever they are treated.<\/p>\n<p data-reveal><strong>What to compare between clinics.<\/strong> The RCOphth notes that UK clinics normally include follow-up visits and any fine-tuning laser treatment for up to two years after surgery. Ask every clinic the same question. Our policy: <span class=\"ph\">{{enhancement \/ re-treatment policy and the period it covers}}<\/span>.<\/p><div class=\"links-row\" data-reveal><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/cost\/\">Laser eye surgery cost in Turkey vs UK, US and EU <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-tools\/cost-calculator\/\">Calculate your savings with the cost calculator <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-surgery-packages\/\">Treatment packages and what&#039;s included <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Table (Table on a tinted panel) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Team (Surgeon cards: 3 surgeons) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"your-relex-smile-surgeons\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t\t<div class=\"sec-head is-center row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>Your ReLEx SMILE surgeons<\/h2><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"sg-grid row row-cols-1 row-cols-lg-3\"><div class=\"col\"><a class=\"sg-card h-100\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/doctors\/\" data-reveal><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-300x300.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul.webp 806w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><span class=\"sg-body\"><b>Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131<\/b><span class=\"sg-spec\">Laser eye surgery (LASIK, SMILE Pro, PRK) \u00b7 ICL \u00b7 cataract and premium lens surgery \u00b7 eyelid surgery \u00b7 squint \u00b7 glaucoma<\/span><span class=\"sg-bio\">An ophthalmology specialist since 1992 and former Professor and Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at Harran University, with 21 peer-reviewed papers on PubMed. Patients often combine laser or lens surgery with eyelid surgery in one trip.<\/span><span class=\"sg-go\">Read more <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div><div class=\"col\"><a class=\"sg-card h-100\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/doctors\/\" data-reveal><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-300x300.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul.webp 806w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><span class=\"sg-body\"><b>Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram<\/b><span class=\"sg-spec\">Laser eye surgery \u00b7 cataract surgery \u00b7 retinal disease<\/span><span class=\"sg-bio\">An ophthalmology specialist since 1999, trained at Trakya University and Y\u00fcz\u00fcnc\u00fc Y\u0131l University. She speaks English, and patients who prefer a female surgeon can ask for her.<\/span><span class=\"sg-go\">Read more <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div><div class=\"col\"><a class=\"sg-card h-100\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/doctors\/\" data-reveal><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"294\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/doc-dr-muhammet-derda-ozer-cornea-specialist-istanbul-294x300.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/doc-dr-muhammet-derda-ozer-cornea-specialist-istanbul-294x300.webp 294w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/doc-dr-muhammet-derda-ozer-cornea-specialist-istanbul-768x784.webp 768w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/doc-dr-muhammet-derda-ozer-cornea-specialist-istanbul.webp 790w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 294px) 100vw, 294px\" \/><span class=\"sg-body\"><b>Do\u00e7. Dr. Muhammet Derda \u00d6zer (Associate Professor)<\/b><span class=\"sg-spec\">Cornea \u00b7 keratoconus \u00b7 corneal cross-linking \u00b7 corneal transplant \u00b7 retina<\/span><span class=\"sg-bio\">If your scans show keratoconus or another corneal problem, Do\u00e7. Dr. \u00d6zer reviews your case before any decision is made. He has 27 peer-reviewed papers on PubMed and speaks Turkish and English.<\/span><span class=\"sg-go\">Meet all our eye surgeons <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Team (Surgeon cards: 3 surgeons) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Process (Step cards: 3 columns) Start -->\n<section class=\"panel\" id=\"your-relex-smile-journey-step-by-step\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t<div class=\"sec-head is-center row\"><div class=\"col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>Your ReLEx SMILE journey, step by step<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\t\t<ol class=\"steps row row-cols-1 row-cols-lg-3\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><div class=\"step h-100\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Free online assessment<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Send your glasses prescription and any eye reports. A surgeon tells you whether ReLEx SMILE is likely to suit you and sends a written quote within <span class=\"ph\">{{response time}}<\/span>.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><div class=\"step h-100\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Book your dates<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Plan 3\u20135 days in Istanbul. We help you choose dates with your surgeon.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><div class=\"step h-100\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Full eye examination (day 1)<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Corneal topography and tomography, corneal thickness, refraction with and without dilating drops, a dry-eye assessment and a retina check. If ReLEx SMILE is not right for you, your surgeon explains why and what the alternatives are.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><div class=\"step h-100\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Surgery (day 1 or 2)<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Numbing drops are used and a small clip keeps your eyelids open. A curved contact glass holds the eye steady with light suction while you look at a light; you feel pressure but no pain. The laser works for seconds, and your surgeon then removes the lenticule. The RCOphth says both eyes typically take about half an hour, and you go back to your hotel the same day.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><div class=\"step h-100\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>First check (the next day)<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Your surgeon examines both eyes.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><div class=\"step h-100\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Final check and home<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Most patients can fly 1\u20133 days after SMILE, once their surgeon has checked their eyes. Your coordinator stays in touch, and your surgeon reviews your progress by video at agreed intervals.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div><\/li>\n\t\t\t<\/ol>\n\t\t<div class=\"sec-foot-flow prose\"><div class=\"links-row\" data-reveal><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/how-it-works\/\">How it works: from WhatsApp to surgery to home <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Process (Step cards: 3 columns) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Process (Timeline) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"relex-smile-recovery-time-what-to-expect\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t\t<h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE recovery time: what to expect<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p class=\"t22 sec-lead\" data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE recovery is quick for comfort and gradual for sharpness: most people see well enough for daily life within days, and vision keeps sharpening over the first weeks. The RCOphth says eye-surface comfort may recover slightly faster after lenticule extraction than after LASIK, while visual recovery may be slightly slower.<\/p>\n\t\t<div class=\"tbl-flow\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<ol class=\"timeline\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>First few hours<\/b>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Gritty, watery, light-sensitive eyes. Rest with your eyes closed and use lubricating drops often.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>Day 1<\/b>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Vision is usually good but may be a little hazier than after LASIK. You can wash and shower normally from day one. First check with your surgeon.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>Week 1<\/b>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>In the FDA trial of SMILE for short sight with astigmatism, 96% of eyes already saw 20\/40 or better without glasses, and 44% saw 20\/20 or better. Do not rub your eyes. Most surgeons advise no swimming for the first week (RCOphth); gym and jogging are fine from day one.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>Month 1<\/b>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>66% of eyes saw 20\/20 or better in the same trial. Contact sports usually restart sooner than after LASIK; your surgeon gives you the date.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>Month 3<\/b>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>83% of eyes saw 20\/20 or better and 94% saw 20\/25 or better. The RCOphth says results by now are equally good for all laser types.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>Up to 2 years<\/b>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Most changes after three months are very small, but full stabilisation can take up to two years (RCOphth).<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/ol>\n\t\t\t\t<p data-reveal class=\"note-sm\">Figures: FDA Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Data for SMILE with astigmatism (2018), 353 eyes, uncorrected vision.<\/p>\n<p data-reveal><strong>Everyday activities:<\/strong> use lubricating drops often, especially when reading or working at screens, and ask your surgeon when to return to work. Avoid eye make-up and swimming until your surgeon allows it. Do not drive until your surgeon confirms that your vision meets the driving standard. Call your coordinator straight away if you have increasing pain, light sensitivity, redness or blurred vision, or if your eye is injured.<\/p>\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Process (Timeline) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Heading (Intro: heading left, text right) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"risks-and-side-effects-of-relex-smile\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"intro-grid row\"><div class=\"intro-side col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48\" data-reveal>Risks and side effects of ReLEx SMILE<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"copy prose col-12\"><p data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE is safe and effective in the right eyes, but like every eye operation it has risks, and you should know them before you decide.<\/p>\n<p data-reveal><strong>Results.<\/strong> In the FDA trial of 357 eyes, no eye lost two or more lines of best corrected vision at six months, and 99% were within 1.00 D of the planned correction. In a 2024 study that followed 208 eyes for ten years after SMILE, 84.6% still saw 20\/20 or better without glasses, with only a small average shift in prescription.<\/p><div class=\"list-card\" data-reveal><h3>Common side effects (usually temporary):<\/h3><ul class=\"check-list\"><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span><strong>Dry eye<\/strong>, milder on average than after LASIK but still possible. In the FDA trial, moderate or severe dry-eye symptoms were reported by 8% of patients before surgery and 9% at 12 months.<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span><strong>Glare, halos and haziness<\/strong>, especially at night and in the first weeks.<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span><strong>Slightly slower sharpening of vision<\/strong> than after LASIK.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"list-card\" data-reveal><h3>Less common risks:<\/h3><ul class=\"check-list\"><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span><strong>Suction loss during surgery.<\/strong> If the eye moves, the laser releases its hold. In the FDA trial this happened in 14 of 357 eyes (3.9%): 10 treatments were completed, and 4 were stopped and handled another way. EyeWiki reports that in most cases suction can be re-applied in the same session.<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span><strong>Difficult lenticule removal, or cells in the interface.<\/strong> These are uncommon; in the FDA trial, one eye (0.3%) had surface cells growing under the cap with a temporary loss of sharpness.<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span><strong>Under- or over-correction<\/strong>, sometimes needing a touch-up, usually by surface laser. The RCOphth says up to 1 in 10 laser patients need some form of additional surgery to get the best result.<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span><strong>Inflammation or infection<\/strong> in the interface, which is rare and treated with drops.<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span><strong>Corneal ectasia<\/strong>, a gradual bulging of a weakened cornea. EyeWiki notes that most reported cases after lenticule extraction were in eyes that were borderline or high-risk before surgery, which is why corneal tomography is checked first.<\/span><\/li><li><svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg><span><strong>Serious, permanent loss of vision is rare.<\/strong> The RCOphth states that fewer than 1 in 5,000 laser patients need a corneal transplant to restore vision.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div><p data-reveal><strong>Later in life,<\/strong> tell any eye doctor that you have had laser eye surgery. It affects eye-pressure readings for glaucoma and the calculations for future cataract surgery.<\/p>\n<p data-reveal>Your surgeon explains your personal risks in writing and through your interpreter before you sign anything.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Heading (Intro: heading left, text right) End -->\n\n\n<!-- FAQ (FAQ accordion) Start -->\n<section class=\"faq pad\" id=\"faq\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"faq-grid\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-side\">\n\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"t48\" data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE in Turkey: frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"acc\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item is-open\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a1\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q1\">How much does ReLEx SMILE cost in Turkey?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a1\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q1\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>SMILE in Istanbul typically costs about $2,000\u20133,450 for both eyes on published price lists, which often bundle a hotel. With Laser Istanbul Clinic, ReLEx SMILE starts from <span class=\"ph\">{{\u00a3 price}}<\/span> for both eyes, including your examination and scans, surgery, medication, follow-up checks, interpreter and coordinator. Hotel and transfers are extra. Your exact price is confirmed in writing after your free assessment.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a2\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q2\">What is the difference between ReLEx SMILE and SMILE Pro?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a2\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q2\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>They are the same keyhole operation on two generations of the Zeiss VisuMax laser. ReLEx SMILE was developed on the VisuMax 500; SMILE Pro runs on the VisuMax 800, which completes the laser step in about 8\u201310 seconds and adds assistants for centring and eye rotation. Published three-month results are comparable.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a3\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q3\">Is ReLEx SMILE better than LASIK?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a3\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q3\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>Vision results are equivalent in meta-analyses. SMILE avoids a flap, which tends to mean milder dry-eye symptoms and no flap that could shift after a knock. LASIK gives slightly faster sharp vision and also treats long sight. Your surgeon recommends one after measuring your corneas.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a4\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q4\">Can ReLEx SMILE treat astigmatism?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a4\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q4\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>Yes. ReLEx SMILE corrects short sight with astigmatism in one procedure, and the FDA-approved range covers astigmatism from \u22120.75 to \u22123.00 D. Studies show a slight tendency to under-correct low astigmatism compared with LASIK, so your surgeon plans for it.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a5\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q5\">Can ReLEx SMILE correct long sight?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a5\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q5\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>Not routinely. SMILE is approved by the FDA for short sight with or without astigmatism, not for long sight. If you are long-sighted, your surgeon will usually suggest Femto-LASIK, surface laser or, from middle age, lens surgery.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a6\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q6\">What is the ReLEx SMILE recovery time?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a6\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q6\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>Most people see well enough for everyday life within a few days and can shower from day one. Vision sharpens over the first weeks: in the FDA trial, 66% of eyes saw 20\/20 or better at one month and 83% at three months. Full stabilisation can take longer.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a7\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q7\">Does ReLEx SMILE hurt?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a7\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q7\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>No. Numbing drops are used, and you feel pressure for a short time while the laser works and the lenticule is removed. Afterwards your eyes may feel gritty or watery for a few hours, and lubricating drops keep you comfortable.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a8\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q8\">Is ReLEx SMILE permanent?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a8\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q8\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>The correction itself is permanent, because the removed tissue does not grow back. Your eyes can still change with age: in a ten-year study, 84.6% of eyes still saw 20\/20 or better. Reading glasses in your 40s or 50s come from the natural lens ageing, not from the laser wearing off.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a9\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q9\">Can ReLEx SMILE be done twice?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a9\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q9\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>A touch-up is possible if enough corneal thickness remains, but it is usually done with surface laser (PRK) rather than a second SMILE. Your surgeon measures your cornea before advising. <span class=\"ph\">{{enhancement \/ re-treatment policy and the period it covers}}<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a10\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q10\">How long do I need to stay in Istanbul, and when can I fly?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a10\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q10\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>Plan 3\u20135 days in Istanbul. Most patients can fly 1\u20133 days after SMILE, once their surgeon has checked their eyes.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-b1374858-a11\" id=\"faq-b1374858-q11\">When can I play sport after ReLEx SMILE?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-b1374858-a11\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-b1374858-q11\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>The RCOphth says gym and jogging can be resumed from day one, and most surgeons recommend no swimming for a week. Because there is no flap, contact sports can restart sooner than after LASIK, where the RCOphth advises waiting at least one month. Your surgeon gives you the exact date at your final check.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How much does ReLEx SMILE cost in Turkey?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"SMILE in Istanbul typically costs about $2,000\u20133,450 for both eyes on published price lists, which often bundle a hotel. With Laser Istanbul Clinic, ReLEx SMILE starts from {{\u00a3 price}} for both eyes, including your examination and scans, surgery, medication, follow-up checks, interpreter and coordinator. Hotel and transfers are extra. Your exact price is confirmed in writing after your free assessment.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the difference between ReLEx SMILE and SMILE Pro?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"They are the same keyhole operation on two generations of the Zeiss VisuMax laser. ReLEx SMILE was developed on the VisuMax 500; SMILE Pro runs on the VisuMax 800, which completes the laser step in about 8\u201310 seconds and adds assistants for centring and eye rotation. Published three-month results are comparable.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is ReLEx SMILE better than LASIK?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Vision results are equivalent in meta-analyses. SMILE avoids a flap, which tends to mean milder dry-eye symptoms and no flap that could shift after a knock. LASIK gives slightly faster sharp vision and also treats long sight. Your surgeon recommends one after measuring your corneas.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can ReLEx SMILE treat astigmatism?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. ReLEx SMILE corrects short sight with astigmatism in one procedure, and the FDA-approved range covers astigmatism from \u22120.75 to \u22123.00 D. Studies show a slight tendency to under-correct low astigmatism compared with LASIK, so your surgeon plans for it.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can ReLEx SMILE correct long sight?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Not routinely. SMILE is approved by the FDA for short sight with or without astigmatism, not for long sight. If you are long-sighted, your surgeon will usually suggest Femto-LASIK, surface laser or, from middle age, lens surgery.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the ReLEx SMILE recovery time?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Most people see well enough for everyday life within a few days and can shower from day one. Vision sharpens over the first weeks: in the FDA trial, 66% of eyes saw 20\/20 or better at one month and 83% at three months. Full stabilisation can take longer.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does ReLEx SMILE hurt?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"No. Numbing drops are used, and you feel pressure for a short time while the laser works and the lenticule is removed. Afterwards your eyes may feel gritty or watery for a few hours, and lubricating drops keep you comfortable.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is ReLEx SMILE permanent?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The correction itself is permanent, because the removed tissue does not grow back. Your eyes can still change with age: in a ten-year study, 84.6% of eyes still saw 20\/20 or better. Reading glasses in your 40s or 50s come from the natural lens ageing, not from the laser wearing off.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can ReLEx SMILE be done twice?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A touch-up is possible if enough corneal thickness remains, but it is usually done with surface laser (PRK) rather than a second SMILE. Your surgeon measures your cornea before advising. {{enhancement \/ re-treatment policy and the period it covers}}\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How long do I need to stay in Istanbul, and when can I fly?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Plan 3\u20135 days in Istanbul. Most patients can fly 1\u20133 days after SMILE, once their surgeon has checked their eyes.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"When can I play sport after ReLEx SMILE?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The RCOphth says gym and jogging can be resumed from day one, and most surgeons recommend no swimming for a week. Because there is no flap, contact sports can restart sooner than after LASIK, where the RCOphth advises waiting at least one month. Your surgeon gives you the exact date at your final check.\"}}]}<\/script><\/section>\n<!-- FAQ (FAQ accordion) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Call to Action (Centred action) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"what-our-relex-smile-patients-say\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t\t<div class=\"sec-head is-center row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>What our ReLEx SMILE patients say<\/h2><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"review-slots\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"widget-slot\" data-reveal><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-star\"\/><\/svg><span><span class=\"ph\">{{2\u20134 consented reviews from SMILE patients: first name, country, surgeon, date; or embedded Google\/Trustpilot widget}}<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"center-cta\" data-reveal><div class=\"links-row\"><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/reviews\/\">Patient reviews and video stories <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Call to Action (Centred action) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Table (Table on a light section) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"other-laser-options-in-istanbul\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t\t<div class=\"sec-head is-center row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>Other laser options in Istanbul<\/h2><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-12\"><p class=\"t22 sec-lead\" data-reveal>ReLEx SMILE is one of several ways to reshape the cornea. All of them give equally good vision at three months, according to the RCOphth; the differences are recovery, comfort and which corneas and prescriptions each suits.<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tbl-flow sec-pre-wide\"><div class=\"tbl-wrap\" data-reveal><table class=\"tbl rsp\"><thead><tr><th scope=\"col\"><\/th><th scope=\"col\">ReLEx SMILE \/ SMILE Pro<\/th><th scope=\"col\">Femto-LASIK<\/th><th scope=\"col\">PRK \/ LASEK \/ no-touch Trans-PRK<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><th scope=\"row\">How it works<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE \/ SMILE Pro\">One femtosecond laser shapes a lenticule, removed through a 2\u20133 mm opening; no flap<\/td><td data-label=\"Femto-LASIK\">Laser-made flap, then excimer reshaping<\/td><td data-label=\"PRK \/ LASEK \/ no-touch Trans-PRK\">Surface skin removed, then excimer reshaping<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Treats<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE \/ SMILE Pro\">Short sight, astigmatism<\/td><td data-label=\"Femto-LASIK\">Short sight, long sight, astigmatism<\/td><td data-label=\"PRK \/ LASEK \/ no-touch Trans-PRK\">Short sight, long sight, astigmatism<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Visual recovery<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE \/ SMILE Pro\">Slightly slower than LASIK<\/td><td data-label=\"Femto-LASIK\">Fastest; often back to work the next day<\/td><td data-label=\"PRK \/ LASEK \/ no-touch Trans-PRK\">Slowest; a week or longer before driving standard<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Comfort in the first days<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE \/ SMILE Pro\">Eye-surface comfort may recover slightly faster<\/td><td data-label=\"Femto-LASIK\">Mild grittiness for a few hours<\/td><td data-label=\"PRK \/ LASEK \/ no-touch Trans-PRK\">Sore for several days while the surface regrows<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Contact sports<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE \/ SMILE Pro\">Sooner than LASIK<\/td><td data-label=\"Femto-LASIK\">Wait at least 1 month<\/td><td data-label=\"PRK \/ LASEK \/ no-touch Trans-PRK\">Sooner than LASIK<\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">Often chosen for<\/th><td data-label=\"ReLEx SMILE \/ SMILE Pro\">Dry-eye-prone eyes, higher short sight, contact sports<\/td><td data-label=\"Femto-LASIK\">Most prescriptions, including long sight<\/td><td data-label=\"PRK \/ LASEK \/ no-touch Trans-PRK\">Thinner corneas, flap-free preference<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"features four row row-cols-1 row-cols-md-2 row-cols-lg-4\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-bolt\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>SMILE Pro on the VisuMax 800<\/h3><p>The newest version of the same keyhole method.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/smile-pro\/\">SMILE Pro in Istanbul (VisuMax 800) <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-clock\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Femto-LASIK<\/h3><p>Blade-free LASIK with the fastest visual recovery, also for long sight.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/lasik\/\">LASIK &amp; Femto-LASIK in Istanbul <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-bolt\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>PRK \/ LASEK and no-touch laser<\/h3><p>Surface laser without a flap or an incision, often recommended for thinner corneas.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/prk-lasek\/\">PRK \/ LASEK in Istanbul <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-bolt\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Laser for reading glasses (40+)<\/h3><p>Blended-vision laser that sets one eye for distance and the other for arm&#8217;s length.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-turkey\/presbyond\/\">Laser for reading glasses (Presbyond, 40+) <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Table (Table on a light section) End -->\n\n\n<!-- List (Related pages) Start -->\n<section class=\"panel\" id=\"related-tools\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t<div class=\"sec-head is-center row\"><div class=\"col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>Related tools<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\t\t<ul class=\"pg-links row row-cols-1 row-cols-sm-2 row-cols-lg-3\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/laser-suitability-test\/\"><span>Am I suitable for laser eye surgery? (quiz)<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-tools\/cost-calculator\/\"><span>Treatment cost and savings calculator<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-tools\/astigmatism-test\/\"><span>Astigmatism test<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- List (Related pages) End -->\n\n\n<!-- List (Sources and medical review) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad tight\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\"><details class=\"sources\" data-reveal><summary class=\"t22\">Sources for the facts on this page<\/summary><ol>\n\t\t<li>*Medical facts (all opened and checked, 6 Oct 2026):**<\/li>\n\t\t<li>US FDA, <em>Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Data, VisuMax Femtosecond Laser, PMA P150040\/S003<\/em> (approved 4 Oct 2018; original PMA 13 Sep 2016): indications (age \u2265 22; sphere \u22121.00 to \u221210.00 D; cylinder \u22120.75 to \u22123.00 D; MRSE \u2264 10.00 D; stable refraction), contraindications (residual stromal bed &lt; 250 \u00b5m, abnormal topography\/keratoconus, unstable refraction, severe dry eye, active infection\/inflammation, recent herpes, autoimmune\/connective-tissue disease, uncontrolled diabetes or glaucoma); 357 treated eyes; UCVA 20\/20 or better 44.2% (week 1), 66.0% (month 1), 83.3% (month 3), 84.2% (month 6); 20\/40 or better 96.0% at week 1; 20\/25 or better 94.3% at month 3; MRSE within \u00b11.00 D 99.1% at month 6; 0 eyes lost \u2265 2 lines BSCVA at month 6; loss of suction 10 completed (2.8%) + 4 discontinued (1.1%); epithelium in the interface with loss of \u2265 2 lines 1 eye (0.3%); moderate\/severe dry-eye symptoms (OSDI) 8% preop vs 9% at month 12. https:\/\/www.accessdata.fda.gov\/cdrh_docs\/pdf15\/p150040s003b.pdf<\/li>\n\t\t<li>US FDA, <em>What should I expect before, during, and after surgery?<\/em>: contact-lens breaks (soft 2 weeks, toric soft \/ RGP 3 weeks, hard 4 weeks). https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/medical-devices\/lasik\/what-should-i-expect-during-and-after-surgery<\/li>\n\t\t<li>EyeWiki (American Academy of Ophthalmology), <em>Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE)<\/em> \/ <em>Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction (KLEx) Surgeries<\/em> (last modified 21 Jul 2026): KLEx terminology incl. ReLEx (refractive lenticule extraction); FLEx 2007; SMILE from September 2011 on the VisuMax 500; 2\u20133 mm incision; SMILE Pro on VisuMax 800 with CentraLign and OcuLign, two robotic arms, laser time about 8\u201310 seconds (manual centration\/cyclotorsion on VisuMax 500); KLEx preferred for dry eye, higher myopia, contact sports, larger pupils; biomechanics superior to LASIK and comparable to PRK; re-treatment may require PRK; suction can be re-applied in the same sitting in most cases (81.8%); ectasia cases mostly in borderline\/high-risk eyes; hyperopic SMILE not FDA-approved. https:\/\/eyewiki.org\/Small_Incision_Lenticule_Extraction_(SMILE) \u00b7 https:\/\/eyewiki.org\/Keratorefractive_Lenticule_Extraction_(KLEx)_Surgeries<\/li>\n\t\t<li>EyeWiki (AAO), <em>LASIK for Myopia and Astigmatism: Safety and Efficacy<\/em>: SMILE tendency to under-correct low-to-moderate astigmatism (\u2264 2.00 D); anterior stroma ~60% of corneal tensile strength; fewer ocular-surface signs after SMILE. https:\/\/eyewiki.org\/LASIK_for_Myopia_and_Astigmatism:_Safety_and_Efficacy<\/li>\n\t\t<li>Shen Z, Shi K, Yu Y, et al. <em>Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) versus Femtosecond Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) for Myopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.<\/em> PLoS One 2016;11:e0158176 (12 studies, 1,076 eyes; no significant difference in UCVA 20\/20, predictability or BSCVA loss; fewer dry-eye symptoms and better corneal sensitivity after SMILE). https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC4930219\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>Shen Z, Zhu Y, Song X, et al. <em>Dry Eye after SMILE versus FS-LASIK for Myopia: A Meta-Analysis.<\/em> PLoS One 2016;11:e0168081 (291 + 277 eyes; dry eye usually transient; TBUT and OSDI better after SMILE at 1, 3 and 6 months). https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5161410\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li><em>Ten-year evaluation on efficacy, safety, and predictability of femtosecond laser corneal small incision lenticule extraction for correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism: a case series.<\/em> Annals of Medicine and Surgery 2024 (208 eyes; UCVA \u2265 20\/20 in 84.6% at 10 years; mean SER \u22120.11 D at 3 months vs \u22120.28 D at 10 years). https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC11543156\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>Davis et al. <em>Comparison of Initial Visual Outcomes Following Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction (KLEx) Using VisuMax 500 Versus VisuMax 800.<\/em> Cureus 2025 (87 eyes; comparable three-month outcomes; all eyes 20\/40 or better). https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC12417058\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>*Prices and project facts:**<\/li>\n\t<\/ol><\/details><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- List (Sources and medical review) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Call to Action (Assessment band) Start -->\n<section class=\"cta-band\" id=\"assessment\">\n\t<div class=\"contact-bg\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span><\/span><span><\/span><span><\/span><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"cta-inner pad container-fluid\"><div class=\"row\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col-12 col-lg-7\"><div class=\"cta-copy\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"t64\" data-reveal>Find out if ReLEx SMILE suits your eyes, free<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"t22\" data-reveal>Send us your glasses prescription and any eye reports. Prof. Dr. Sat\u0131c\u0131 or Op. Dr. Bayram will tell you whether ReLEx SMILE, Femto-LASIK or another option suits you, and what it would cost, with no obligation.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"cta-actions\" data-reveal><a class=\"pill pill-white\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/free-consultation\/\"><span class=\"pill-dot\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><span class=\"pill-label\">Get my free ReLEx SMILE assessment<\/span><\/a><a class=\"pill pill-line\" href=\"https:\/\/wa.me\/90123456789\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span class=\"pill-dot\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><span class=\"pill-label\">WhatsApp: +90 123 456 789<\/span><\/a><a class=\"pill pill-line\" href=\"tel:+902121234567\"><span class=\"pill-dot\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><span class=\"pill-label\">Call: +90 212 123 45 67<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-12 col-lg-5\"><div class=\"proof-card\" data-reveal>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"proof-text\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"t48\">3 eye surgeons<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"t22\">Your case is reviewed by a named surgeon, not a salesperson. Reply within <span class=\"ph\">{{response time}}<\/span>.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"avatars\" aria-label=\"Our surgeons\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-150x150.webp\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail\" alt=\"Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul.webp 806w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><span class=\"tip\">Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/doc-dr-muhammet-derda-ozer-cornea-specialist-istanbul-150x150.webp\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail\" alt=\"Do\u00e7. Dr. Muhammet Derda \u00d6zer\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><span class=\"tip\">Do\u00e7. Dr. Muhammet Derda \u00d6zer<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-150x150.webp\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail\" alt=\"Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul.webp 806w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><span class=\"tip\">Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<!-- Call to Action (Assessment band) End -->\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":0,"parent":1772,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1904","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1904","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1904"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1904\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3049,"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1904\/revisions\/3049"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1772"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1904"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}