Laser eye surgery · SMILE cost · UK 2026

SMILE eye surgery cost in the UK

SMILE laser eye surgery in the UK typically costs £2,200–£3,800 per eye (£4,400–£7,000 for both), with 0% finance widely available. SMILE is a flapless, keyhole laser procedure that corrects short-sight and astigmatism through a tiny incision. Here’s what affects the price, what’s included, and the lens-based alternative if you’re over 45.

From £2,200per eye, typical UK 2026
Flaplesskeyhole, lower dry-eye risk
0% financeover 12–24 months
Day caseminutes per eye

SMILE typically costs £2,200–£3,800 per eye in the UK in 2026. SMILE is a flapless, keyhole laser procedure that corrects short-sight and astigmatism through a tiny incision.

How much does SMILE cost in the UK?

As a 2026 guide, SMILE usually costs £2,200–£3,800 per eye, or roughly £4,400–£7,000 for both eyes. Premium wavefront-guided or bladeless treatments sit at the higher end. Most clinics quote a single price including your pre-operative scans and consultation, the laser treatment, and follow-up appointments — and offer 0% finance over 12–24 months. Compare all options on our laser eye surgery cost guide.

Is SMILE right for you?

SMILE is a minimally invasive, flapless option many find appealing for active and contact-sport lifestyles, with a lower risk of dry eye than LASIK. It currently treats short-sight (myopia) and astigmatism rather than long-sight.

The lens-based alternative if you are over 45

Laser reshapes the cornea and does not stop presbyopia or future cataracts. If you are over 45, refractive lens exchange replaces the natural lens with a multifocal implant — correcting distance, intermediate and near vision and preventing future cataracts. It is consultant-led at our South England clinics from £4,300 per eye. Compare lens replacement (RLE).

Want help choosing between SMILE and a lens-based option — and a clear price?

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Frequently asked questions

How much does SMILE cost in the UK?
Typically £2,200–£3,800 per eye in 2026 (£4,400–£7,000 for both eyes), depending on prescription, technology and clinic. 0% finance is widely available.
What is included in the price?
Usually the pre-operative consultation and scans, the SMILE laser treatment, and a set of follow-up appointments. Always confirm whether a quote is per eye or for both.
Is SMILE suitable if I am over 45?
SMILE treats the cornea but does not address presbyopia or future cataracts. Over-45s often consider refractive lens exchange instead.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can self-refer for a private assessment to check whether SMILE is suitable.

Find the right vision correction for you

Whether SMILE or a lens-based alternative suits you best, we’ll help you compare options and costs and book a consultant-led assessment. For sudden vision loss or eye pain, seek emergency care immediately.

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Updated on 3 Jun 2026