SMILE vs LASIK: What’s the difference?

If you’re tired of reaching for your glasses or dealing with the hassle of contact lenses, you’ve probably considered laser eye surgery. Two popular options are SMILE vs LASIK. While both procedures can significantly improve your vision, they differ in their techniques and benefits. In this blog, we’ll break down the key distinctions between SMILE Pro and LASIK, helping you make an informed choice about which one might be the right choice for you.

Understanding SMILE Pro

SMILE Pro (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a laser eye surgery procedure that provides a minimally invasive alternative to traditional LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis).¹https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40662-015-0024-4 During a SMILE procedure, we use a “cold laser” to create a small, precise incision in the cornea, so we can extract a thin lenticule of tissue. This reshapes the cornea and corrects your vision, all through a keyhole incision.²https://www.zeiss.com/meditec/en/products/refractive-lasers/femtosecond-laser-solutions/zeiss-visumax-800.html

This laser procedure uses a femtosecond laser, which operates with extreme precision. Once the lenticule is removed, the cornea is reshaped to correct the refractive error, such as short-sightedness or astigmatism. SMILE Pro is particularly appealing to active individuals or those in dusty environments due to the lack of flap. Many people report a smoother visual recovery and less disruption to their daily routine.

Advantages of SMILE Pro

1. Minimally invasive: One of the primary benefits of SMILE Pro is its minimally invasive nature. The procedure requires a smaller incision, resulting in less disruption to the corneal surface and a potentially faster recovery. You will not see, hear or smell the laser! So you will feel more comfortable.
2. Reduced dry eye: SMILE Pro may be associated with a lower risk of dry eye syndrome³https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0168081 compared to LASIK. This is because the smaller incision disrupts fewer corneal nerves, reducing the likelihood of dryness and discomfort post-surgery.
3. Enhanced stability: The structural integrity of the cornea is better preserved with SMILE Pro, making it an appealing option for those with thinner corneas.⁴https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/11/14/4162

Recovery time after SMILE Pro is often quick, with most people returning to work within a day or two. While vision continues to improve over time, many experience clear vision within the first week. In the long term, results have been shown to be stable and predictable, especially for moderate refractive error corrections.

Understanding LASIK

LASIK, on the other hand, has been a longstanding and widely accepted laser eye surgery procedure. It involves creating a flap in the cornea, which we lift to allow the laser to reshape the underlying tissue. We then reposition the flap to enable the healing process.

Advantages of LASIK

1. Quick results: LASIK typically provides rapid visual recovery,⁵https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/asma/asem/2007/00000078/00000006/art00001 with many patients experiencing improved vision within a day or two after the procedure.
2. Versatility: LASIK has a proven track record and can effectively address a wide range of vision issues, including myopia and astigmatism.⁶https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161642008003552
3. Established safety: LASIK has been performed for several decades, and technological advancements have made it a safe and reliable⁷https://journals.healio.com/doi/abs/10.3928/1081597X-20230802-02 option for vision correction.

LASIK Smile Pro is often the term used to describe clinics offering both LASIK and SMILE Pro side-by-side, allowing patients to choose the best laser procedure based on their lifestyle and eye health. While LASIK offers faster sharpness in the first 24–48 hours, SMILE Pro may provide better long-term comfort for some.

Choosing between SMILE ​Pro and LASIK

The choice between SMILE Pro and LASIK depends on various factors, including your individual eye health, prescription, and personal preferences. Here are some key considerations:

1. Corneal thickness: If you have a thinner cornea, SMILE Pro may be a more suitable option, as it involves a smaller incision.
2. Dry eye concerns: If you are prone to dry eyes, SMILE Pro may be a better choice due to its potentially lower impact on corneal nerves.
3. Prescription strength: Both SMILE Pro and LASIK can address a range of prescriptions, but your specific prescription may influence your surgeon’s recommendation.
4. Lifestyle: Consider your lifestyle and preferences. LASIK offers quick results, while SMILE Pro may appeal to those seeking a minimally invasive approach.

In summary, both SMILE Pro and LASIK are effective and safe laser eye surgery options, each with its own set of advantages. To determine the best choice for you, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced eye surgeon. Book a free assessment with us to help you understand your options and make an informed choice about your vision correction journey.