SMILE Eye Surgery in Nashville, TN: Cost, Candidacy & Top Questions Answered

When you think of laser vision correction, the first thing that comes to mind may be LASIK. While LASIK eye surgery is still a popular option, it’s not the only choice you have for corrective vision surgery. At Wang Vision Institute, Dr. Ming Wang, a Harvard & MIT graduate who holds a doctorate degree in laser physics, has performed tens of thousands of minimally invasive laser eye surgeries and was the first in the state to perform SMILE eye surgery. ZEISS SMILE vision surgery — which is a small-incision LASIK procedure —can help patients with nearsightedness and/or astigmatism achieve clearer vision with a less invasive approach compared to alternatives. 

This means patients enjoy a shorter recovery after SMILE vs. LASIK, among other benefits. During an initial consultation, Dr. Wang and our knowledgeable team will share additional details on candidacy for SMILE eye surgery in Nashville, the cost of SMILE vision surgery (which will depend on individual case factors), and other helpful information. In the meantime, find answers to common SMILE eye laser surgery FAQ here. 

What is SMILE eye surgery? 

ZEISS SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) is an advanced laser vision correction procedure that treats nearsightedness and certain cases of astigmatism without creating the large corneal flap used in traditional LASIK. During the procedure, a specialized femtosecond laser creates a thin disc of tissue, called a lenticule, within the cornea. Dr. Wang then removes the lenticule through a very small incision, reshaping the cornea so light focuses more accurately on the retina. Benefits of SMILE eye surgery may include:   

• Treatment for nearsightedness and astigmatism  
• Small incision with no corneal flap  
• Fast procedure  
• Reduced disruption to corneal nerves  
• Quick visual recovery 

For many patients, SMILE offers an effective, minimally invasive alternative to LASIK traditional laser vision correction. 

What’s the difference between LASIK vs. SMILE surgery? 

Both LASIK and SMILE reshape the cornea to improve vision, but they do so using different techniques. LASIK involves creating a thin corneal flap before reshaping the underlying tissue with an excimer laser. SMILE, on the other hand, reshapes the cornea by removing a small lenticule through a tiny incision without creating a large flap. Because of its flap-free approach, SMILE preserves more of the cornea's natural structure and may reduce certain postoperative concerns, such as dry eye symptoms, for some patients. The best procedure depends on your prescription, corneal anatomy, lifestyle, and overall eye health, all of which will be carefully evaluated during your consultation. 

Who qualifies for SMILE eye surgery? 

SMILE is designed primarily for adults with nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism, whose vision prescription has remained stable for an appropriate period of time. Candidates for SMILE should also have healthy corneas and be free of certain eye conditions that could interfere with healing or affect surgical outcomes. During your evaluation, Dr. Wang will perform a comprehensive eye examination using advanced diagnostic technology to determine whether SMILE is the most appropriate vision correction procedure possible or whether another option, such as LASIK or refractive lens surgery, may better suit your individual needs. 

How much does SMILE eye surgery cost, and does insurance cover the procedure? 

The cost of SMILE eye surgery varies based on each patient's vision correction needs and treatment plan, so there is no single price that applies to everyone. During your consultation, our team will provide a personalized cost estimate after completing your eye examination. Because SMILE is typically considered an elective vision correction procedure, most health insurance plans do not cover it. However, financing options and the use of health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs) may help make treatment more affordable. Our team will be happy to discuss your payment options during your visit. 

Will I have 20/20 vision after SMILE surgery? 

Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after SMILE surgery, but individual results vary based on factors such as your prescription before surgery, the health of your eyes, and how your eyes heal. While the goal is to significantly reduce or remove your dependence on glasses or contact lenses, no vision correction procedure can promise a specific visual outcome for every patient. During your consultation, Dr. Wang will review your expected results, explain what is realistic for your eyes, and help you determine whether SMILE is the right choice for your vision goals. 

Start seeing things more clearly sooner than you think with SMILE eye surgery in Nashville  

If you're ready to reduce your dependence on glasses or contacts with an advanced, minimally invasive vision correction procedure, SMILE eye surgery may be an excellent option. Dr. Ming Wang and our experienced team at Wang Vision Institute offer personalized evaluations and state-of-the-art laser technology to help patients achieve clearer vision with confidence. Contact our laser eye surgery center today to schedule your consultation and find out whether SMILE eye surgery in Nashville, TN is right for you.