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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