Large-Scale Indian Study Validates AI-Enabled Next-Gen SMILE Laser Technology
Mumbai: A landmark clinical study involving 1,500 eyes has confirmed the effectiveness of next-generation SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) laser technology in delivering rapid, precise, and safe vision correction. Conducted at Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Bengaluru, the study is among the largest reported globally for SMILE surgery and highlights India’s leadership in advanced ophthalmic innovation.
The study, co-developed with ZEISS and Bengaluru-based surgeon Prof. Dr. Sri Ganesh, Chairman and Managing Director of Nethradhama, used the VisuMax 800 femtosecond laser system. Results showed that 98% of eyes achieved 20/20 vision or better and 99% reached target correction within 15 days, underscoring rapid recovery and high refractive accuracy.
Dr. Supriya Samak Sriganesh, Executive Director of Nethradhama and co-author of the study, said: “This represents one of the largest datasets on SMILE surgery and contributes valuable evidence to global ophthalmology research. The results reaffirm Nethradhama’s position among the world’s leading centres for laser vision correction.”
The VisuMax 800 platform, adopted by Nethradhama as one of the first five centres worldwide and the first in India, demonstrated significantly reduced intraoperative risks. Suction loss occurred in just 0.06% of cases, compared to 0.5% in earlier systems.
Prof. Dr. Sri Ganesh noted: “The VisuMax 800 laser has transformed SMILE surgery with high-speed operation, automated alignment tools, and AI-enabled nomograms. Procedures can be completed in under 10 seconds of laser time, reducing surgical stress and accelerating recovery while ensuring precision and safety.”
The system integrates AI-driven centration guidance (CentraLign) and digital cyclotorsion control (OcuLign), setting new benchmarks for accuracy and patient outcomes.
Prof. Ganesh, recognized among the world’s top 2% researchers by Stanford-Elsevier for the second consecutive year, emphasized India’s growing role in shaping global refractive surgery standards.
The painless procedure, performed with anaesthetic eye drops, takes just 5–6 minutes for both eyes. Patients typically resume normal activities the next day. Suitable for individuals above 18 with stable myopia or astigmatism, SMILE has now surpassed 13 million procedures worldwide, making it the fastest-growing refractive surgery.
By combining AI-enabled precision, faster recovery, and enhanced patient comfort, the VisuMax 800 study reinforces India’s position at the forefront of global ophthalmology.
