SmartSight Nova vs. SMILE Pro: A Laser Comparison

Author: Dr. Victor Derhartunian 9 December 2025

Vienna is a city of innovation and tradition. In ophthalmology, too, at EyeLaser Vienna, we combine proven medical expertise with the absolute cutting edge of technological progress. The comparison “SmartSight Nova vs. ReLEx SMILE Pro” is more than a technical detail – it’s the choice between a very good standard and the next level of precision.

What will you learn in this text?

  • What is the difference between SMILE, SMILE Pro, and SmartSight? All three are minimally invasive methods, but SmartSight Nova is the most modern advancement with superior eye-tracking and automated centering.
  • What makes “Centrax” technology so unique? Centrax recalculates the eye’s position after the laser docks and automatically compensates for even the smallest corneal shifts.
  • How secure is data transfer at EyeLaser Vienna? Thanks to a closed digital workflow, your measurement data flows directly from the diagnostic device to the laser, eliminating typos and mix-ups.
  • Which method offers higher precision for astigmatism? SmartSight Nova scores here with automatic axis correction (cyclotorsion compensation), which is particularly crucial for astigmatism.
  • How fast is the recovery after the procedure? Patients often report perfect vision the day after the surgery, as the Schwind Atos laser creates extremely smooth incision surfaces.

From SMILE to SmartSight Nova: A Quantum Leap

For a long time, ReLEx SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) was the gold standard. But medical technology doesn’t stand still.

While SMILE Pro with the VisuMax 800 laser already works faster than its predecessor, SmartSight Nova (with the Schwind Atos laser) goes a step further. It not only optimizes speed but also perfects what truly matters: centering.

Why Centering Determines Your Visual Quality

Dr. Victor Derhartunian explains the importance of this technology for our patients in Vienna:

“Imagine you want to take a photo. With older systems, you had to hold the camera still and hope the subject didn’t move. SmartSight Nova with Centrax is like an intelligent autofocus that moves with the subject. Even if the eye rotates minimally after contact with the laser, the software corrects the incision plan. That’s precision that manual surgery cannot achieve.”

Patient Report: Lukas from Vienna

Lukas (29), an avid mountain biker from Vienna, chose EyeLaser.

“For me, it was important to be able to get back on my bike quickly and not have problems with dry eyes. Dr. Derhartunian recommended SmartSight. The procedure in Vienna was completely painless. What fascinated me was that the laser seemed to know exactly where my eye was looking, even though I was nervous. The next day, I had 120% vision.”

Technology Comparison: Facts, Not Promises

FeatureReLEx SMILEReLEx SMILE ProSmartSight Nova
Laser SpeedMediumVery fastVery fast (up to 4 MHz)
CenteringManualAssistedAutomated & Re-adjusting (Centrax)
Astigmatism correctionManual (Marking)DigitalDigital & Automatic (Static Torsion Control)
Data SecurityOften manualDigitalSeamless Export to Atos Laser

H2: FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Is SmartSight more expensive than SMILE?

At EyeLaser Vienna, we offer cutting-edge technology at fair prices. Often, the costs are comparable, even though you benefit from the latest technology.

Why don’t all clinics in Vienna offer SmartSight?

Many clinics are tied to older contracts or lasers. EyeLaser is independent and consistently relies on the technology leader Schwind Eye-Tech-Solutions.

What does “adjusted after applanation” mean?

This means less stress for you. When the contact glass touches the eye, the software takes over the fine adjustment. You don’t have to “hold perfectly still”.

Does the Procedure Hurt?

No, the eye is numbed with drops. You will feel at most a slight pressure for a few seconds.


    Experience the difference in Vienna. Book your free suitability consultation at EyeLaser now.

    author image

    Author:

    Dr. Victor Derhartunian

    Nachdem er sein Handwerk von den beiden Pionieren der Laserchirurgie gelernt hat, gehört Dr. Victor Derhartunian zu den führenden Augenlaser-Chirurgen. Er leitet die Praxis in Wien und kann seine Patienten in fünf Sprachen beraten.