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

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

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.

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.

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Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.

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Our most popular procedures

  • SMILE Pro

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The best way to find out if laser eye treatment is right for you is to have a free assessment. We’ll examine your eyes and you’ll get a clear answer from our experts on your suitability and laser vision correction options.

Hi, I’m Dr Aanchal Gupta, your laser and cataract surgeon in Adelaide

Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the joy of helping thousands of patients of all ages gain clear vision and freedom from glasses and contact lenses.

Laser eye surgery is a skill. Performing vision correction at a world-class standard hinges upon the expertise of your surgeon and their access to state-of-the-art tools.

I understand that getting eye surgery is a serious decision. Your eyes are unique and you should demand a custom solution tailored to your needs, lifestyle and goals. That’s why we offer a free appointment so we can meet and I can take the time to answer your questions and talk through any concerns you have.

I am passionate about helping patients transform their lives. I look forward to spending time with you at our gorgeous eye clinic in the heart of Adelaide to see whether you could gain exceptional vision without the need for glasses or contacts.

Dr Aanchal Gupta

MBBS, M.Med. (Ophth. Sci.), Grad. Dip. (Refract. Surg.), FRANZCO
Expert Laser Eye and Cataract Surgeon