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SMILE eye surgery in Vaughan

Lumea’s Vaughan clinic at 9135 Keele Street, Unit A7, Vaughan, ON L4K 0J4 offers Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE), a flap-free laser procedure for patients with near-sightedness and astigmatism. If you are considering vision correction in York Region, a consultation at Lumea is the starting point for finding out whether SMILE is appropriate for your eyes, prescription, and lifestyle.

SMILE is designed for patients who want accurate outcomes and a quick return to daily routines without the creation of a corneal flap. For patients across Vaughan and the surrounding York Region, it may offer a lasting reduction in dependence on glasses and contact lenses through a minimally invasive approach.

To compare all available procedures, visit our Surgeries and Procedures page.

The SMILE procedure explained

During SMILE, a femtosecond laser creates a thin layer of corneal tissue, called a lenticule, within the cornea. The lenticule is then removed through a small incision, reshaping the cornea to correct vision.

No corneal flap is involved at any point. Because the outer corneal layers remain largely undisturbed, SMILE patients tend to experience fewer dry eye symptoms compared to procedures that require flap creation, and the structural stability of the cornea is better preserved over time.

SMILE treats myopia and astigmatism. Suitability is confirmed through a full pre-operative assessment.

Is SMILE right for you?

Why Vaughan patients choose SMILE

Vaughan is one of Ontario’s fastest-growing communities. Residents here balance demanding commutes, busy work schedules, family commitments, and active lifestyles.

Many of our patients come from Maple, Concord, Woodbridge, Thornhill, Kleinburg, Richmond Hill, and North York. They come to Lumea Vaughan looking for a vision correction option that fits the pace of their lives.

SMILE may suit patients who are looking for:

  • A flap-free laser vision correction procedure.
  • Treatment specifically for near-sightedness or astigmatism.
  • A minimally invasive procedure with minimal disruption to daily routine.
  • Fast visual recovery, often within 1 to 2 days.
  • A local consultation option within York Region.

Who is a good candidate for SMILE?

Ideal candidates for SMILE at Lumea Vaughan typically include patients who are:

  • Under 45 years of age.
  • Near-sighted up to −9.0D.
  • Diagnosed with astigmatism up to 5.0D.
  • Confirmed to have adequate corneal thickness.
  • Involved in contact sports or physically active routines.
  • Seeking a flap-free approach to vision correction.

When Your Surgeon May Recommend Something Else

Not every patient is best served by SMILE. Your prescription, corneal thickness, age, dry eye history, and long-term goals all play a role in the final recommendation.

If SMILE is not the right fit, your Lumea surgeon will suggest a more suitable option. These may include:

The recommendation is always based on what is clinically right for your eyes.

Side effects to be aware of

Most side effects following SMILE are temporary and mild, resolving naturally as the eyes heal.

Possible temporary side effects include:

  • Dry eyes
  • Irritation
  • Foreign body sensation
  • Temporary night glare
  • Temporary halos

SMILE recovery timeline

SMILE recovery is generally fast, although healing can vary by patient.

  • Surgery length: 15 minutes
  • Anaesthesia: Local with oral sedation
  • Initial discomfort: 6 to 12 hours
  • Vision recovery: 1 to 2 days
  • Exercise: 5 to 7 days
  • Makeup: 7 to 14 days
  • Final visual outcome: 1 to 2 weeks
  • Dry eyes: Typically resolve in 4 to 8 weeks

Your surgeon will provide recovery instructions tailored to your procedure and healing progress. Lumea’s post-operative care model involves a 24-hour follow-up at our clinic, after which your regular optometrist manages ongoing recovery.

Our Team

Our surgeons at Lumea Vaughan

SMILE procedures at Lumea Vaughan are performed by fellowship-trained ophthalmologists with specialized expertise in refractive and cataract surgery.

Our surgical team includes:

Your pre-operative assessment and post-operative care are supported by our optometry team, led by Dr Hassan Qureshi, OD.

Visiting Lumea at Vaughan for a SMILE consultation

Lumea Vaughan 9135 Keele Street, Unit A7 Vaughan, ON L4K 0J4 Tel: 416-663-3160.

Our Vaughan clinic serves patients from Vaughan, Maple, Concord, Woodbridge, Thornhill, Kleinburg, Richmond Hill, North York, and the surrounding York Region area. Learn more about the clinic on our Vaughan clinic page.

During your consultation, the team will review your prescription, corneal thickness, eye health, visual goals, and lifestyle to determine the most appropriate procedure for your eyes.

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Make an appointment today

If you are considering SMILE eye surgery in Vaughan, the next step is a full candidacy assessment. Lumea Vaughan can help determine whether SMILE is suitable for your eyes or whether another procedure may be recommended.

Use Lumea’s contact page to book a consultation.

Frequently asked questions about SMILE in Vaughan

Is SMILE available at Lumea's Vaughan clinic?

Yes. SMILE is performed at Lumea Vaughan, 9135 Keele Street. A candidacy assessment at the clinic confirms whether SMILE is appropriate for your prescription and corneal measurements.

What does SMILE treat?

SMILE corrects myopia (near-sightedness) and astigmatism. It does not treat farsightedness (hyperopia).

Does SMILE require a corneal flap?

No. SMILE is a flap-free procedure. The lenticule is removed through a small incision without any flap being created, which is one of the main reasons patients choose it over LASIK.

How long is the SMILE procedure?

The surgery itself takes approximately 15 minutes.

What does recovery look like after SMILE?

Mild discomfort is typical for 6 to 12 hours. Vision typically improves within 1 to 2 days, and most patients reach their final visual outcome within 1 to 2 weeks.

Is SMILE a good option for people with active lifestyles?

Yes. The absence of a corneal flap makes SMILE worth considering for active patients and those who play contact sports. Individual candidacy is confirmed through a full consultation.