SMILE vs. LASIK: A Detailed Comparison
SMILE vs. LASIK: A Detailed Comparison
If you've been thinking about getting laser eye surgery, you've probably considered how safe they are. You’ve likely heard of LASIK, as it’s been around for years. But there’s also SMILE, another form of laser vision correction. Both can help you get rid of glasses or contact lenses, but these two procedures work in different ways.
At Re:vision, we offer some of the most advanced laser eye surgery options in Auckland. Our team specialises in finding the right treatment for your eyes, so you get the best results with the lowest risk. In this article, we talk about how SMILE and LASIK work, their key safety differences, and which one might be the best fit for you.
What Is SMILE Surgery?
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a type of laser vision correction. It works a lot like LASIK. But there's one major difference: it doesn’t involve creating a corneal flap.
SMILE can be a good option for people with mild-to-moderate short-sightedness (myopia). It can also be suitable for those who aren't good candidates for LASIK because of dry eyes. SMILE does have some limitations though. The laser used in the SMILE procedure isn’t as precise as the laser used in the LASIK procedure. Because of this it still lags behind LASIK in terms of correcting farsightedness or astigmatism. Plus, SMILE involves the removal of tissue inside the cornea instead of just reshaping the surface. So, it’s harder to fine-tune if you need an adjustment later.
How it works
The procedure takes about 10 minutes per eye. After the eye surgeon applies numbing drops, they use a femtosecond laser to create a thin, lens-shaped layer of tissue inside the cornea. The surgeon then removes this tiny piece through a 2-4 mm incision. This allows the cornea to reshape itself naturally. There is no requirement for stitches afterwards.
Recovery is pretty quick but generally slower compared to LASIK surgery. But it normally takes a few days to a week for vision to fully stabilise. Most people can go back to work in a day or two. It may take several weeks before vision is as crisp as it can be.
What Is LASIK Surgery?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is the most well-known type of laser eye surgery. It gives clear vision by changing the shape of the corneal tissue so light focuses properly on the retina. Unlike SMILE, LASIK involves the creation of a thin corneal flap, which is then lifted to allow for reshaping underneath.
LASIK is an excellent option for people with short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism. It’s also a lot more customisable than SMILE. This can make it a better choice if you have a more complex prescription. During the procedure, the eye surgeon uses an excimer laser. Because of this, LASIK provides more precise vision correction, allowing for finer adjustments.
How LASIK Works
The LASIK procedure takes about 10 minutes per eye. First, the eye surgeon applies numbing eye drops. Next, they use a femtosecond laser to create a thin flap on the surface of the cornea. They then lift this flap and use an excimer laser to change the shape of the corneal tissue underneath. Once the reshaping is complete, the eye surgeon places the flap back down. And it naturally reattaches without stitches.
Recovery is fast. Most people get to enjoy clearer vision in just a few hours. They can also usually get back to work or do normal activities in a day or two. Some people might experience temporary dryness or mild discomfort. But the healing process is usually smooth, with vision getting better and better over the next few weeks.
Safety Comparison: SMILE vs. LASIK
When it comes to laser eye surgery, safety is always the biggest concern for most patients. Both SMILE and LASIK have excellent success rates. The main differences come down to how each procedure is done, how the eye heals, and what potential side effects can happen afterward.
Here’s how they stack up against each other:
Which One Is the Best Choice for You?
When it comes to laser vision correction, both SMILE and LASIK are very safe and effective. But the best option for you can only be determined by having an assessment with a professional, as every eye is different. LASIK is often the best choice for most people, though, because:
- More precise vision correction
- Fastest recovery
- Better long-term vision stability
- Minimal risk with modern techniques
- Proven track record
SMILE and LASIK Eye Surgery Auckland
At Re:vision, we're the specialists you can count on when it comes to laser eye surgery. At the core of what we do is the aim of giving you sharp, clear vision with minimal risk. Our Auckland laser eye clinic is led by one of New Zealand’s most trusted laser eye surgeons. And we offer a full suite of vision correction options, including:
- LASIK for fast, precise, and long-term results
- Cataract surgery for ageing eyes
- Implantable contact lenses (ICL) for those who aren’t LASIK candidates
- Customised laser procedures to match different eye conditions
The best next step is simple: book a free assessment. We'll guide you through your options and help you find the safest, most effective solution for your eyes.
Contact our team today to book your free assessment.
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