LASIK vs. SMILE By William Goldstein on July 21, 2016

LASIK vs. SMILE

 
The femtosecond laser has revolutionized eye surgery since it's introduction. The lasers ability to 
perfectly split the corneal tissue and create matching perforations makes it very versatile. LASIK or 
laser in situ keratomileusis has been the most popular femtosecond laser surgery for years. It is a two-
step procedure that has been the most utilized when trying to achieve the desired refractive outcome. 
SMILE is a relatively new procedure and is yet to be FDA approved. This article will compare LASIK vs. SMILE procedures.
 

What is the SMILE procedure?

 
The SMILE procedure is a single-step procedure where a lenticule (disc) of tissue is created using the 
femtosecond laser and afterwards removed. The laser photo-ablates a refractive lenticule and a single 
side-cut. Once this is done, the lenticule is dissected by the surgeon, using forceps and removed. The 
post surgery treatment is almost the same as LASIK and involves antibiotics and steroids.
 

LASIK vs. SMILE

 
Theoretically speaking, SMILE is a simpler procedure and has a lot of benefits. Since no flap is 
created, there are no chances of flap related problems after the procedure. Since less corneal nerves are 
severed, there is also a less chance of getting a dry eye. 
 
SMILE however does have it's disadvantages. Unlike with LASIK, it cannot treat very small amount of 
ametropia. It is not useful for wavefront customized procedures. It works for a limited range of 
problems such as myopia/shortsightedness and astigmatism only. LASIK, on the other hand can be 
used to correct hyperopia up to +4D with good results. Some patients who undergo SMILE also report 
longer recovery and adjustment periods when compared to LASIK. A number of patients who have 
undergone the SMILE procedure also reported corneal ectasia.
 
Since LASIK has been around for a longer time, it is more versatile and can be customized to treat a 
wider range of problems. The latest machines offer both static and dynamic cyclotorsion control. When 
treating astigmatism and other wavefront guided treatments, this aspect can be very useful. In cases of 
high astigmatism treatment, LASIK can maximize optical zone as it has bitoric or other various 
ablation patterns.
 
LASIK has the upper hand when it comes to refractive correction as SMILE is relatively new. Through, 
treatments can be customized to treat problems more accurately and make sure the procedure goes as 
planned.
 
Ultimately, the decision to choose either SMILE or LASIK depends on you and your doctor. Your 
doctor will recommend the best treatment based on your needs, so do take their word seriously.

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Dr. William S. Goldstein

Laser Eye Care Center

William S. Goldstein, MD, has been practicing laser eye surgery since 1991. He was one of the first doctors to offer advanced eye care in all of Michigan and is a member of several prestigious organizations: 

  • American Board of Ophthalmology
  • American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons

If you are ready to enhance your vision, call our office at (586) 323-2020 or request a consultation online.

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