What is SMILE Vision Correction?

Want something to SMILE about? SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) surgery is the latest advancement in laser vision correction.

Discover the Benefits of SMILE

This minimally invasive procedure is designed to treat common vision problems like nearsightedness and astigmatism. Cataract and refractive surgeon Dr. Ralph Chu is proud to offer this fast-growing treatment in Bloomington, MN. So what is SMILE, and how does it work? SMILE is best known for improving refractive errors and eliminating your dependence on eyeglasses or contacts. If you are considering laser eye surgery, we encourage you to review the following information and research your options. You can also schedule a SMILE consultation by giving our specialists a call today. The professionals at Chu Vision Institute are happy to answer your questions and concerns.

SMILE Laser Vision Correction - KARE 11 News

Candidates for laser eye surgery

During LASIK eye surgery, a small flap is made on the surface of the eye. A laser then reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors. SMILE, however, is less invasive because it does not require a flap. During a consultation, Dr. Chu can learn about your vision problems and determine if this option is best for your eyesight. SMILE may not be right if your vision is unstable or if you have certain eye conditions. Patients who are nearsighted or have astigmatism usually get the best results. Additionally, SMILE vision correction offers the following benefits:

SMILE is minimally invasive, with little to no discomfort or pain
Most patients can return to their daily routines the next day with clear vision
No more hassles with traditional glasses or contact lenses

How flapless laser eye surgery works

The technology used in SMILE laser eye surgery offers great precision, which means patients experience fewer complications and side effects. SMILE is an outpatient surgery and does not take long to perform. It also allows for shorter treatment time when compared to LASIK. To begin, our team in Bloomington, MN, will numb the eye and keep it stable to prevent it from blinking or moving around.

During a SMILE procedure, Dr. Chu uses a highly focused laser light to create a tiny incision in the cornea. We will use this incision to remove a small piece of corneal tissue, also called a lenticule. This is what reshapes the cornea and corrects your vision. After SMILE vision correction is completed, Chu Vision Institute can give you simple instructions about recovering at home.

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What happens after SMILE surgery?

With flapless laser eye surgery, it is very important to follow your recovery guidelines and aftercare instructions at home. This ensures proper healing with the least amount of side effects. Patients may want to arrange for help from a trusted friend or family member to drive them home following their procedure. You will also want to take the rest of the day off from work or other activities. Dr. Chu can schedule follow-up visits as needed to keep track of your progress.

Patient Reviews

I was diagnosed with a cataract in my left eye in February 2005 eye doctor set me up with Dr Chu who did the surgery. I had worn glasses since the 50’s after surgery I no ...

Brenda H.

PRK was the best decision I have ever done. I wouldn’t have explored surgery options with any other clinic or surgeon. Eye surgery is nerve racking, but Dr Chu and his tea...

Ciarra

I had the most amazing experience at Chu Vision! Every aspect of my journey getting the Light Adjustable Lens' to correct my vision was wonderful. Can't say enough of Dr Chu and...

Maria B.

Dr. Chu is an excellent doctor. I felt confident in his knowledge and ability as a surgeon. He is a very kind and caring person and felt very comfortable with him. His staff is ...

Carol K.

I knew from the moment I walked into Chu Vision, this would be where I wanted to have my cataracts taken care of. The staffers are very professional, knowledgeable and helpful. ...

Judy T.

Staff are friendly, waiting time is not long. The clinic is run like a well oiled machine!

Barb H.

My vision is fantastic! Amazing stuff!

Darcie N.

I had been in need of cataract surgery for a while. I was having trouble finding a surgeon that I wanted to touch my eyes! Then my son had Laser Surgery at Chu Institute and was...

Pattie H.

Even with my medical background, this was out of my area of expertise, so I was pretty nervous. Quickly I was reassured by their very comprehensive examination, excellent profes...

Orlando

Very thorough, professional, and uplifting

Carolyn S.

The teamwork at the Chu Vision Institute is fantastic. They are careful to answer one's questions, diligent about prepping for surgery, and of course the surgeons are top notch....

Jeffrey S.

I had never had cataract surgery before, so thus was unexplored territory for me. The preparatory videos, however, were invaluable. I had numerous follow-up phone calls from Chu...

Brian M.

I had LASIK done at Chu Vision today. I was so impressed with every step of the process. They have clearly thought of each step of the client experience. I am confident in the f...

Kielyn S.

I have been going to Chu Vision for annual eye appointments for eight years. All annual appointments were done by caring professionals. This year, the need for cata...

Linda U.

Chu Vision was recommended to me by a friend and I could not be happier with the facility and staff. Everyone was always so friendly, you can tell they all really enjoy what the...

Mara M.

Light tunable cataract surgery lens replacement. Satisfied with the results. Can see great at long distance and up close with glasses. Professionally run organization. Everyone ...

Rick M.

I had the EVO ICL procedure done and am so happy with the results!! It’s crazy to think I won’t need contacts or glasses anymore, and waking up each morning being ab...

Andrea E.

This was by far the best eye vision clinic I have ever been to. They are so polite and caring. Dr. Chu absolutely knows what he is doing and so personable. Gr...

JoEllen S.

Absolute the Cadillac of any business I have been a part of. Excellent communication, empathic nurses and techs, excellent doctors, and best of all- my vision! I am blown away b...

Becky H.

If every health care facility operated as seamlessly and as patient oriented as this one, we would have truly compassionate, passionate and professional services that rival none...

Anonymous

I had a refractive lens exchange (RLE) procedure with Chu nearly 2 years ago, and I still think about how much it has improved my day-to-day life nearly every day! I had extreme...

Karla R.

Chu Vision is a highly professional and extremely caring Institute. My cataract surgery went well and Dr. Chu and his entire staff were amazing! They truly cared for...

Sherri R.

I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision!

I had the Implantable Contact Lens(ICL) procedure done at Chu Vision Institute, and I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision! I ha...

Jackie O.

I'm taking lessons for my own business in how thorough they are.

I am so impressed with this clinic from start to finish. They are a well-oiled machine, and have clearly considered the patient experience all the way through. I felt comfortabl...

Kielyn S.

I can now drive without glasses.

Chu Vision did a great job. From the initial evaluations through the cataract surgery I had on both of my eyes. Everything went smoothly and as planned. It has now been three mo...

Mike K.

The team there made you feel comfortable and at ease

I had cataract surgery. The care was unbelievable the team there made you feel comfortable and at ease. All my follow up visits was all about my healing process and even the pho...

Willie F.

My life has been forever changed

I walked into Chu Vision and my life has been forever changed. I had been wearing glasses for almost 25years and after doing my research chose Dr. Chu for my surgery. I cannot c...

Bridget V.

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Schedule SMILE vision correction

At Chu Vision Institute, we understand the idea of flapless laser eye surgery may seem intimidating or scary. Ultimately, our professionals believe SMILE is the best option for people who struggle with nearsightedness or astigmatism. Cataract and refractive specialist Dr. Ralph Chu frequently educates individuals about the benefits of SMILE as well as the risks involved. If you would like to learn more in Bloomington, MN, call our staff for a SMILE consultation today.

Our team is excited to offer premier care to each one of our patients. Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Ralph Chu is a fellowship-trained corneal specialist and a nationally recognized leader in refractive and cataract procedures. His specialty areas include cataract, LASIK, cornea, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries for patients in the Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Twin Cities areas.