SMILE eye surgery South Africa: A modern solution for clear vision
If you’re tired of the daily hassle of glasses or contact lenses, you may be wondering if there’s a better way to see clearly. The good news? There is. SMILE eye surgery is a cutting-edge laser vision correction procedure that offers a safe, precise, and minimally invasive way to achieve freedom from glasses and contacts.
At Atlantic Eye Laser Centre, we specialise in SMILE eye surgery in South Africa, helping patients experience life-changing vision correction with advanced technology and expert care.
What Is SMILE eye surgery?
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Unlike traditional laser procedures like LASIK, SMILE requires only a tiny incision—making it a gentler approach with faster recovery.
During the procedure:
- A femtosecond laser creates a thin disc of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea.
- The surgeon removes the lenticule through a small incision.
- The cornea reshapes itself, correcting vision without the need for a flap.
The result? Crisp, clear vision with minimal discomfort and a quick return to daily activities.
Benefits of SMILE eye surgery
SMILE is gaining popularity across South Africa, and for good reason. Here’s why patients love it:
- Minimally invasive – A small incision means less disturbance to the eye’s surface.
- Quick recovery – Many patients return to work and normal activities within a day or two.
- Less dry eye risk – Since fewer corneal nerves are affected, dry eye symptoms are less common than with LASIK.
- Safe & precise – SMILE is performed using advanced laser technology for highly accurate results.
- Permanent results – Once your vision is corrected, you can enjoy the benefits for years to come.
Am I a good candidate for SMILE?
SMILE is ideal for people who:
- Are nearsighted (with or without astigmatism).
- Have stable vision for at least a year.
- Prefer a flap-free procedure with less dry eye risk.
- Want a quicker recovery and minimal downtime.
However, SMILE may not be suitable for those with very high prescriptions or other eye conditions. The best way to find out if SMILE eye surgery in South Africa is right for you? Take our quick self-test to check your suitability.
Start Your journey to clear vision
SMILE eye surgery is transforming the way people experience vision correction. At Atlantic Eye Laser Centre, we’re dedicated to providing world-class care with the latest technology.
Ready to find out if you’re a candidate? Take our Suitability Self-Test today and take the first step toward a life without glasses or contacts!
Find out if you are suitable for laser eye surgery
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
Our most popular procedures
What our patients say…
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The best care, the best treatment and the best doctors.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Everything was done with care and the doctor explained everything in detail. My surgery was a success and my sight has significantly improved – I no longer use glasses.”
N.N.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“All I can say is WOW! I feel like I have new eyes.
Thank you just doesn’t even began to say how grateful I am. Your hole team is an absolute pleasure to be around. You guys rock”
S.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The service is excellent and the doctors are experts in their fields. I felt relaxed and confident that I was in great hands. Staff are warm, friendly and very helpful.”
F.W.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I would refer Dr Beatty to anyone interested in LASIK or PRK eye surgery. The entire experience was really pleasant with his and his staff’s professional advice and care before, during and after the surgery.
I am very thankful to be able to look at the world and go about my day to day activities without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.”
P.M.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Best money spent ever. I am so happy with the results after I had LASIK done.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“BEST decision and results after I had my LASIK done by Doctor Beatty!”
A.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I will definitely recommend Dr Beatty. I am so happy with my LASIK.”
R.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Dr Daemon McClunan and the entire staff at Atlantic Eye Centre, Foreshore are beyond AMAZING. The medical care I received from Dr McClunan was outstanding and the staff was always friendly and professional.”
M.M.We have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
Hi, I’m Daemon McClunan
I’m proud to be the founder of both the Atlantic Eye Centre, a leading eye specialist centre; and LIQID Medical Pty, an award-winning biotech company. My passion for research and innovation has led me to create four patented devices, and earn various prestigious awards during my specialist training.
With a medical degree from Stellenbosch University, a specialist degree from the University of Cape Town, and experience working in renowned Laser Eye Surgery centres in Canada, Germany, India and London, I’m dedicated to providing top-tier care.
Beyond the clinic, I’ve embarked on humanitarian missions, travelling over 15,000km by motorbike to provide rural eye screenings. In my downtime, I love mountain biking, diving, and spending quality time with my family.
My goal is to provide a world-class service which ensures every patient leaves my practice feeling happier than when they first walked in.
Dr Daemon McClunan
MBChB(SU), DipOphth(SA), MMed(UCT), FcOphth(SA)
Hi, I’m James Beatty
I pride myself on providing exceptional eye care with state-of-the-art equipment and a team dedicated to excellence. With a focus on refractive surgery, I bring years of experience and expertise to each patient’s journey towards clearer vision.
As an active member of esteemed Ophthalmologist societies including the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa and the South African Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, I stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.
Additionally, my affiliation with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and the South African Glaucoma Society underscores my commitment to upholding the highest standards of care.
With a passion for laser surgery, I strive to deliver optimal outcomes for every patient.
Dr James Beatty
MB ChB (UCT) FCS (SA) Ophth MMed (Stel) Ophth
