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If you have sudden eye pain, blurred vision, or eye floaters, you may wonder how serious it is and how fast you should act. This
December 18, 2025 No Comments
Dr. Manjushree K S (MBBS, MS, FPRS) is a surgeon specializing in Cataract (Phaco) and Refractive procedures. With over 3 years of experience, she practices at the Jayanagar 7th Block location and is focused on delivering high-quality, personalized ophthalmic care.
SMILE eye surgery offers a bladeless way to correct vision. But the price can vary. Let us break down the SMILE eye surgery cost, factors that affect it, and what patients should know before going ahead.
SMILE stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. It is a laser-based eye surgery that treats myopia and astigmatism. The procedure uses a femtosecond laser to create a small lens-shaped disc inside the cornea. This disc is then removed through a tiny incision.
Unlike LASIK, it does not involve creating a flap. This makes healing faster and reduces dryness in many cases. SMILE is quick and usually takes about 10 minutes per eye. Vision improves within a day or two. Patients can resume work in 2–3 days. It suits those with stable eye power and healthy corneas.
SMILE is also preferred by people in active jobs where flap injuries may happen. It is safe, precise, and has fewer side effects. However, it may not correct very high numbers. A doctor will check suitability through detailed tests.
The SMILE eye surgery cost depends on several things.
The biggest factor in a SMILE eye surgery price is the technology used. Advanced machines like VisuMax or ZEISS platforms increase the price. Surgeon experience and hospital reputation also matter. Well-known eye centres with senior doctors may charge more. The city where you get treated changes the price, too.
SMILE procedure cost in metro cities is usually higher. Pre-surgery tests and follow-up care may be included or billed separately. If you need both eyes treated, the overall cost may be less than double. Discounts are sometimes available for early bookings.
SMILE laser eye surgery price may also vary if done during special hospital packages or camps. Finally, extra care such as tear duct plugs or anti-dryness treatment may add to your bill. Always ask for a full breakup in advance.
Nethradhama offers two forms of SMILE procedures based on patient need and corneal profile.
This is the original form of SMILE. It uses the ZEISS VisuMax laser to reshape the cornea. The process removes a thin lenticule from inside the eye. No flap is created. This keeps the cornea strong and reduces nerve damage.
Most patients heal within 2–3 days. The chance of dry eyes is generally lower with SMILE compared to traditional LASIK, including Femto LASIK, though results can vary by patient. This SMILE eye surgery works best for stable myopia and astigmatism. It is gentle and suits younger patients or those into sports. No stitches are needed.
Vision improves almost immediately. But complete clarity may take a few weeks. Aftercare involves eye drops and regular checks. The SMILE LASIK surgery cost for this type usually falls in the mid-to-high range.
SMILE Pro is the upgraded version of SMILE and typically uses the latest ZEISS VisuMax 800 system, where available. The laser application time is less than 10 seconds, making the procedure faster overall. It includes advanced eye tracking for more accuracy. This version is ideal for patients with high-quality expectations.
The small incision remains, but healing tends to be quicker. Vision clarity may come within 24 hours in many cases. SMILE Pro is often chosen by working professionals or those short on recovery time.
The SMILE Pro surgery cost is higher than the standard SMILE. But it offers faster outcomes and better comfort. Some people say it’s worth the extra spend. The final choice depends on your eye profile and lifestyle needs.
The SMILE eye surgery cost in India ranges between ₹70,000 and ₹1,30,000 for both eyes. Single-eye surgery costs about half. This depends on the hospital, city, and type of technology used. Basic SMILE surgery may cost less in smaller cities.
In metro hospitals, SMILE laser eye surgery cost can touch ₹1.5 lakh. High-end versions like SMILE Pro cost even more. Hospitals may offer EMI options or health check combo offers. Some clinics give free pre-op tests if you book early. Always confirm what’s included. Sometimes, medicines, drops, or extra scans are billed separately. Ask for the final estimate before fixing the surgery date. Also, check if follow-ups are part of the package. This helps avoid negative surprises later.
Below is a sample cost comparison across Indian cities. Please verify prices with hospital websites or official representatives.
City | Approximate cost (both eyes) |
|---|---|
Bangalore | ₹1,10,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
Mumbai | ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
Delhi NCR | ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
Hyderabad | ₹90,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
Chennai | ₹90,000 – ₹1,30,000 |
Ahmedabad | ₹80,000 – ₹1,10,000 |
Pune | ₹85,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
Most health insurance plans do not cover SMILE eye surgery. It is seen as elective or cosmetic. Some premium policies offer partial coverage under vision care. But conditions apply.
Government schemes and employer policies may not include it. SMILE surgery cost in India is usually paid out-of-pocket. Some people use health EMIs or medical credit cards. Tax exemption under Section 80D is not available for SMILE surgery unless it is part of a covered health insurance policy.
Always talk to your insurer before booking. Try to check if the hospital can support reimbursement paperwork. Keep all bills and diagnostic reports safe for future claims.
Different eyes need different care. Corneal thickness, whether surgery is needed for one or both eyes, the machine used, and the surgeon’s experience affect cost.
If comfort, fast healing, and fewer side effects matter to you, then yes, it can be worth it.
At Nethradhama and similar hospitals in Bangalore, prices range from ₹1.1 to ₹1.4 lakh for both eyes.
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