The SMILE Awards Southeast Asia is an annual event organized by ZEISS Group to honor institutions with outstanding achievements in refractive surgery and ophthalmic care across Southeast Asia.
On January 3, 2023, Viet–Nga International Eye Hospital was officially recognized by ZEISS as the leading medical institution in Southeast Asia for performing the highest number of ReLEx SMILE surgeries using ZEISS technology in 2022.
This recognition, awarded by Carl Zeiss Group, stands as a testament to the hospital’s dedicated efforts in advancing refractive surgery—partnering with ZEISS to deliver safer procedures and exceptional visual outcomes for patients.
In 2022, Viet–Nga International Eye Hospital proudly received four prestigious awards, including:
- Top Performer in Southeast Asia for the highest number of ReLEx SMILE surgeries using ZEISS technology
- Excellence in ReLEx SMILE Surgery Rate in Vietnam
- Top Performer in Vietnam for the highest number of ReLEx SMILE procedures using ZEISS technology
- Certification of 25,000 ReLEx SMILE Surgeries Successfully Performed
On behalf of ZEISS, Mr. Trần Anh Đức – Business Director of Laser Surgery for Southeast Asia, and Ms. Vũ Thị Thu Hiền – General Director of Carl Zeiss Vietnam, emphasized:
“Viet–Nga International Eye Hospital is a strategic partner of ZEISS in continuously adopting the most advanced ophthalmic technologies and techniques to enhance refractive surgery in Vietnam.”
“We believe that the strong collaboration between our experienced team of Russian ophthalmologists and ZEISS’s state-of-the-art equipment will deliver optimal treatment outcomes and absolute patient satisfaction.
In early 2023, ZEISS will launch its next-generation refractive surgery platform—VisuMax 800 with SMILE Pro. Viet–Nga International Eye Hospital will be the first in Vietnam to adopt this cutting-edge technology. This marks a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between ZEISS and Viet–Nga Hospital, reinforcing their shared leadership in refractive surgery across both Vietnam and Southeast Asia.”**
From the hospital’s side, Dr. Bazhanov Vitalii, Senior Refractive Surgery Expert at Viet–Nga International Eye Hospital, shared:
“Over the years, we’ve continuously worked to enhance and refine every aspect of the patient journey—from consultation to surgery—to ensure the best possible experience.
Particularly in refractive surgery, ReLEx SMILE has become a popular choice for its outstanding advantages: a 23-second procedure, minimally invasive incision, rapid recovery, and extremely low risk of myopia regression.
Not only do Vietnamese patients prefer this method, but international patients have also praised our services—highlighting the fast, painless procedure and vision recovery as soon as the next day.”
Technology Keeps Evolving – The Spotlight Now Shines on Phakic ICL
While ReLEx SMILE remains one of the most advanced laser vision correction technologies, the ever-evolving landscape of refractive surgery has led many ophthalmology experts to shift toward a safer, more versatile, and superior solution: Phakic ICL (EVO Implantable Collamer Lens).
So why is Phakic ICL being hailed as “the next step” in refractive surgery?
| Criteria | ReLEx SMILE | Phakic ICL |
|---|---|---|
| Corneal Tissue Removal | Yes (femtosecond laser) | No corneal damage |
| Recovery Time | A few days | Almost immediate |
| High Myopia Treatment (> -10D) | Limited | Highly effective |
| Dry Eye Risk | Possible | Does not cause dry eyes |
| Removability | No | Can be removed if needed |
| UV Protection | No | Yes |
| Suitability for Thin Corneas | Limited | Suitable |
Phakic ICL uses a biocompatible Collamer lens, gently placed behind the iris without damaging the cornea—a major advantage for those with thin corneas, high myopia, or a risk of dry eye after surgery.
What Are Patients Saying About Phakic ICL?
- 99.4% of patients said they would choose Phakic ICL again if given the choice
- Most patients return to normal activities within one day
- Choose Phakic ICL – A Long-Term Investment in Your Vision
Phakic ICL may be the right choice for you if you:
- Have myopia from -3.0D to -18.0D, with or without astigmatism from 0.5D to 6.0D
- Want a safe solution that does not damage the cornea
- Have been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK
Vision is not just about clarity—it’s about quality of life.
Take the first step in learning about Phakic ICL, the advanced vision correction solution that’s quickly becoming the new global standard in refractive surgery.







