Smile Lasik vs Lasik Eye Surgery
If you’re considering vision correction surgery, you may be weighing the benefits of LASIK versus SMILE Eye Surgery. Both surgeries have been approved by the FDA for vision correction and are considered safe, but which is the better option for your needs? Let’s take a look at the differences between SMILE and traditional LASIK so that you can make an informed decision about your vision correction procedure.
What Is SMILE LASIK?
SMILE stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction and was developed in Germany in 2011 as a way to reduce dry eye in the many people who suffer from that due to extended contact lens wear. It uses a laser to create a small opening through which a thin disc of tissue called a lenticule is removed. Once this tissue is removed, the shape of the cornea is improved, leading to correcting vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. The entire process takes around 5 minutes per eye, similar to LASIK.
Who Is a Good Candidate for SMILE Eye Surgery?
If you’re considering a vision correction procedure to eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, SMILE eye surgery might be an excellent solution for you. A good candidate for this minimally invasive laser procedure typically has a stable eyeglass prescription for at least a year, with myopia ranging from -1.00 to -10.00 diopters. Smile Eye Surgery can help with Astigmatism, too! It’s important that the individual is in good general health with no eye diseases, such as corneal thinning or cataracts. Additionally, candidates should be 18 years of age or older, as this ensures that their eyes have fully matured, reducing the likelihood of vision changes post-surgery. By meeting these criteria, SMILE eye surgery can provide a quick and efficient way to achieve better vision with minimal discomfort and rapid recovery time.
What is LASIK?
LASIK, also known as ‘Laser-assisted in Situ Keratomileusis’, is a type of refractive eye surgery that corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. During the procedure, an ophthalmologist uses a laser to create a small semi-circle opening that allows them to complete the LASIK treatment underneath, resulting in long lasting results. The laser reshapes your cornea, allowing light to enter and project on your retina in a crisp, clear manner.
Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?
An ideal candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery is someone who seeks a lasting solution to their vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Generally, individuals who are tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses may find this advanced eye surgery profoundly beneficial. However, it is essential to note that specific criteria must be met for proceeding with LASIK. The candidate should be at least 18 years old, with a stable eye prescription for at least one year, and have healthy corneas with sufficient thickness.
Which Procedure Is Right For Me?
Both procedures are approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and are used to correct a “refractive error” that occurs when the light entering the eye does not bend correctly, preventing it from focusing. This can cause blurry vision that will require some sort of correction in the form of glasses, contacts or refractive surgery. If you have mild to moderate myopia (nearsightedness) or astigmatism (an irregularly shaped cornea), then either the LASIK or SMILE LASIK procedure should work well for you, depending on your individual needs.
SMILE may be preferred if you have dry eyes or another condition that may not allow you to be a candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery.
The Differences Between SMILE and LASIK
In recent years, advancements in eye surgery have led to the development of diverse vision correction techniques, such as SMILE and LASIK. While both treatments aim to remedy vision problems, there are distinct differences between these two cutting-edge methods. SMILE offers several unique advantages, including minimally invasive techniques and fast recovery times, by only requiring a solitary and small opening. Consequently, this method protects the corneal biomechanical integrity, which is especially beneficial for individuals with an active lifestyle or thin corneas.
LASIK, on the other hand, has been the predominant popular choice for over two decades; it entails creating a thin window opening on the cornea, under which laser reshaping is performed for improved vision. Generally, LASIK provides rapid results and is suitable for a wide range of refractive errors, like farsightedness in addition to nearsightedness and astigmatism.
However, one’s individual circumstances and eye conditions should guide the decision-making process when selecting between SMILE and LASIK, as each procedure presents its own set of advantages and limitations.
Is SMILE as effective as LASIK?
The world of vision correction has seen remarkable innovations over the years, and two of the leading procedures that have transformed countless lives are SMILE and LASIK. These techniques may aim for the same goal – restoring optimal eyesight – but they accomplish it in unique ways. In fact, SMILE Eye Surgery has helped restore the lives of over 7 million people worldwide! While both procedures serve the purpose of addressing vision problems like myopia and astigmatism, they have key differences in approach and patient experience. Both surgeries yield impressive success rates, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better.
Recovery Times for SMILE and LASIK
The recovery time for both procedures is usually short (around one day). However, many patients report that their recovery is faster after SMILE than after traditional LASIK Eye Surgery—sometimes within just hours of surgery. The exact recovery time will depend on each individual patient’s condition and healing rate.
How Safe is LASIK Eye Surgery
Both SMILE LASIK and LASIK are safe, effective ways to correct vision issues such as nearsightedness and astigmatism. Ultimately, it comes down to the doctor’s recommendation & sometimes an element of personal preference – what works best for your lifestyle and budget? Talk with your ophthalmologist about all the options available so that you can make an informed decision about which procedure is right for you! Regardless of which treatment option you choose, rest assured knowing that modern technology has made these corrective procedures simpler than ever before – giving you clear vision without hassle!
Be sure to talk to one of our doctors about not only the benefits of vision correction, but also any risks of vision correction that may pertain to your individual needs and circumstances.