Laser Vision Correction has revolutionised the way millions of people around the world see.

Offering a non-invasive and safe alternative to improve vision for those that are suitable, glasses and contact lenses can be a thing of the past for those that invest in this lifestyle opportunity.

Modern advancements in laser vision correction technology now provides an excellent choice for eye doctors, allowing them to tailor a visual solution to suit each individual patient.

Two of the most popular Laser Vision Correction procedures are LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and SMILE® Pro (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction).

While both are highly effective and have advantages in common, they also have distinct differences that can determine which option is best suited to you and your visual goals.

This blog will compare SMILE® Pro and LASIK in terms of the procedure itself, its recovery, advantages, disadvantages, cost, and ideal candidates. This will provide you with some insight into which might be best for your vision correction goals.

Before we get started on a comparison it is relevant to detail the advantages of both technologies and techniques offer.

• Both are minimally invasive day surgery procedures
• Both have rapid visual recovery and healing
• Both are comfortable and painless
• Both are fast
• Both are proven and predictable
• Both are available at Adelaide Eye & Laser Centre

Overview of LASIK

LASIK is the most widely known and practiced Laser Vision Correction technique and has been performed for decades, offering predictable and reliable results. The procedure involves two main steps:

• First, a thin flap is created on the surface of the cornea using a femtosecond laser.
• Second, an excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to correct vision by eliminating refractive errors like myopia (shortsightedness), hyperopia (longsightedness), or astigmatism. After this, the corneal flap is repositioned, acting as a natural bandage that helps with healing, which is rapid.

Overview of SMILE® Pro

SMILE Pro, is the most modern laser vision technology available and is a minimally invasive alternative that has been widely practiced for over a decade. The procedure involves the below key steps:

• SMILE Pro uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin, lens-shaped disc of tissue (called a lenticule) inside the cornea.
• Instead of creating a flap, a small incision is made on the outermost layers of the cornea through which the lenticule is extracted, reshaping the cornea and correcting vision.

Key Differences Between SMILE® Pro and LASIK

Procedure Technique

• LASIK: Involves creating a flap on the surface of the cornea. After laser correction, this flap is put back in place.
• SMILE® Pro: No flap is created and instead, a small incision is made, through which the lenticule is removed.

The difference in technique impacts post-surgical recovery and the risk of complications. SMILE Pro could be considered less invasive as the smaller incision means less disruption to the corneal nerves, potentially leading to a reduced risk of dry eye symptoms.

Recovery Time

• LASIK: Patients often experience clear vision within a few hours to a day, with most achieving optimal vision within a week. The post operative restriction period is 7 days and includes avoiding activities like contact sports and swimming during this time.

• SMILE® Pro: While patients will experience clear vision quickly and will notice improvement both the day of the procedure and the following day, it can take 1-2 weeks to reach the best possible clarity. Due to less disruption to the outer cornea cells, the post operative restriction period is reduced to 3 days after SMILE® Pro meaning you can get back to your everyday life quickly.

Risk of Dry Eyes

• LASIK: One of the most common side effects of LASIK is dry eyes. This occurs because the corneal flap created during surgery can disturb the nerves responsible for tear production. For most people, this symptom is temporary and resolves within a few months and is effectively remedied with eye drops. In rare cases, it can be long-lasting, and the use of eye drops may be required for a longer period.
• SMILE® Pro: Because SMILE® Pro does not require a large corneal flap, there is less disruption to the corneal nerves, leading to a lower risk of severe dry eyes. This is a significant advantage for people already prone to dry eyes or those worried about this side effect.

Visual Outcomes

• LASIK delivers fast and predictable results, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better. It is highly effective for treating a broader range of refractive errors, including high levels of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
• SMILE® Pro is primarily used for myopia and mild astigmatism although advancements are being made in this technology making it a potential option for patients with hyperopia in the future with further research and advancements.

 Corneal Strength and Stability

• LASIK: The creation of a large corneal flap in LASIK can weaken the corneal structure slightly, making the eye more vulnerable to injury, particularly in contact sports or trauma. This risk is considered low for most patients.
• SMILE® Pro: With no flap, SMILE® Pro maintains corneal strength, which can make the eye more resilient in the long term. This may be particularly advantageous for individuals involved in high-impact sports or professions where eye injuries are more likely.

Risk of Complications

• LASIK: The primary risk with LASIK is related to the corneal flap. Flap complications, such as dislocation, inflammation, or infection, can occur, though these are rare when performed by an experienced ophthalmologist and if the patient is educated and committed to following immediate post-procedure do’s and don’ts.
• SMILE® Pro has fewer risks related to flaps since no flap is created. The incision is small and heals quickly, reducing the likelihood of complications related to trauma or movement of the eye post-surgery.

Cost Comparison

• The cost of SMILE® Pro and LASIK can vary, but often SMILE® Pro tends to be slightly more expensive because of the newer technology involved. However, both procedures are often very comparable in price. If you would like more information on the cost of each and your payment options at Adelaide Eye & Laser Centre, click here.

Who Is a Better Candidate for Each Procedure?

LASIK can treat a broader range of visual capabilities and is an excellent option for most people who have myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. It is often recommended for those with mild to moderate refractive errors and those who prefer a quicker recovery time. Ideal Candidates are people with stable vision, no history of eye diseases, and adequate corneal thickness.

SMILE® Pro is ideal for individuals with myopia and mild astigmatism, especially those prone to dry eyes or who engage in contact sports. SMILE® Pro is a better option for those concerned about the long-term structural integrity of the cornea. Ideal candidates are those with a preference for a less invasive procedure, athletes, or people concerned about dry eyes and corneal strength.

Often a patient will be suitable for both technologies, and if this is the case, your eye doctor will recommend one option over the other based on your individual eye health, your visual goals and your preference.

Which Procedure Is Right for You?

Both LASIK and SMILE® Pro offer exceptional results in Laser Vision Correction, but their differences make each procedure better suited for different types of patients. Deciding between LASIK and SMILE® Pro depends on your unique needs, your individual eye health, visual goals and lifestyle.

Consulting with a specialist ophthalmologist in Laser Vision Correction will help you determine which option is best for you. Whichever you choose, both SMILE® Pro and LASIK have transformed millions of lives by providing clear, sharp vision without the need for glasses or contacts.

Adelaide Eye & Laser Centre offers a complete suite of Laser Vision Correction technology and can provide their patients with access to two of Australia’s very best Laser Vision Specialists – Dr Peter Ingham and Dr Ben LaHood. Both considered leaders in this field and with decades of experience, you can book a complementary and obligation free appointment with them to understand your options and suitability.

Curious to understand your suitability now?

We have created an Online Eye Suitability Test here. In three quick questions and less than three minutes we can indicate your likely suitability and options, and help you book an appointment.

If you would like to seek a referral to our care or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our friendly team on 08 8274 7000 or by filling out the contact form here.