LASIK, LASEK and SMILE - What are the differences?
13 April 2023
Laser eye surgery is becoming an increasingly popular way to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. As you do your research on this type of treatment, you’ll soon find that there are several different types of laser eye surgery available, with LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE being the most commonly performed procedures.
This blog post will walk you through each type of treatment as well as a few of the pros and cons of each surgery to help you make an informed decision on which procedure may suit you best. Be sure to also have a thorough discussion with an experienced optometrist about
LASIK
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of refractive eye surgery that uses a laser to reshape the cornea and correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
During LASIK surgery, the surgeon creates a thin flap in the outer layer of the cornea using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser. The flap is then lifted to expose the underlying cornea, and a second laser is used to remove a precise amount of corneal tissue, which reshapes the cornea to improve vision.
After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is replaced and allowed to heal naturally without stitches. LASIK is a quick and relatively painless procedure that typically takes only a few minutes per eye, and most patients experience a significant improvement in their vision within a few days.
LASIK is one of the most commonly performed types of refractive eye surgery and has a high success rate, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better. However, like any surgical procedure, LASIK does carry some risks and potential complications, so it's important to discuss the benefits and risks with your eye doctor before deciding whether LASIK is the right option for you.
Pros:
- A fast and relatively painless procedure.
- Quick recovery time, with most patients experiencing improved vision within a day or two.
- High success rate, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better.
- Low risk of complications.
Cons:
- Not suitable for patients with thin or irregular corneas.
- Some patients may experience dry eyes or other temporary side effects.
- May not be suitable for patients with very high prescriptions.
LASEK
LASEK (Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy) is a type of laser eye surgery that is used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
During the LASEK procedure, the surgeon first applies a special solution to the cornea that softens the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. The surgeon then uses a laser to remove a small amount of tissue from the cornea to reshape it and correct the refractive error.
After the laser treatment, the surgeon replaces the epithelial layer back onto the cornea, where it is held in place with a special contact lens while the eye heals. This contact lens is typically worn for a few days to allow the epithelium to heal properly.
LASEK is similar to another type of laser eye surgery called PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), but in LASEK, the epithelium is not completely removed, making it a better option for patients with thinner corneas.
Pros:
- Suitable for patients with thin or irregular corneas.
- Lower risk of complications compared to LASIK.
- May be suitable for patients with very high prescriptions.
Cons:
- Longer recovery time compared to LASIK, with some patients experiencing blurred vision for several days or even weeks.
- Higher chance of eye discomfort and sensitivity to light during recovery.
- Some patients may require a second top-up procedure to achieve their desired results.
SMILE
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) laser eye surgery is a newer type of refractive eye surgery that uses a femtosecond laser to reshape the cornea and correct vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness).
In SMILE surgery, the laser creates a small incision in the cornea and removes a small disc-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea. This removal of tissue changes the shape of the cornea, correcting the refractive error in the eye. The surgery is performed through a small incision, which reduces the risk of complications and allows for faster healing times.
SMILE surgery has several potential benefits compared to other types of laser eye surgery, including a smaller incision size, less tissue disruption, and faster visual recovery. However, it may not be suitable for all patients, and a thorough consultation with an experienced eye surgeon is necessary to determine if it is the right procedure for you. SMILE surgery is a very recent development in laser eye treatment and is not something we currently provide at Ultralase clinics.
Pros:
- Minimally invasive procedure with a small incision.
- Faster recovery time compared to LASEK, with most patients experiencing improved vision within a day or two.
- Lower risk of complications compared to LASIK.
- Suitable for patients with thin corneas.
Cons:
- Limited availability compared to LASIK and LASEK.
- Higher cost compared to LASIK and LASEK.
- Longer procedure time compared to LASIK and LASEK.
LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE are all effective laser eye surgery procedures that correct a wide range of vision problems. The choice of procedure will depend on several factors, including your individual needs, the severity of your eye’s refractive error, as well as the condition of your cornea. The best way to determine which type of laser eye surgery is right for you is by having a consultation with a qualified and experienced optometrist.
As the UK’s most experienced laser eye surgery specialists, we ensure that all our patients receive bespoke care and choose the treatment that will give you the best possible results.
Book a consultation with us today to start your journey to clear, natural vision. https://www.ultralase.com/contact-us/call-back/
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