Refractive surgery has made significant progress over the last few decades thanks to modern-day technology. People suffering from refractive issues have access to more treatment options than they did in previous generations. The use of lasers has transformed the way medical professionals approach vision care. Are you considering corrective eye surgery but not sure if you should get Smile or LASIK? In this article, we will discuss the key differences between Smile and LASIK in Los Angeles.
What is SMILE?
SMILE is an acronym for small-incision lenticule extraction. A very small opening (typically less than 4 millimeters) is created to remove the lenticule, which changes the shape of the cornea and results in improved vision. It is a relatively new type of laser refractive surgery used to treat myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism.
What is LASIK?
LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. The first step of this corrective eye surgery involves creating a hinged flap within the cornea that is approximately 20 millimeters in diameter. The surgery works to correct a wide range of vision issues, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
Differences between SMILE and LASIK
Are you someone who has been seeking laser vision correction in Los Angeles but aren’t quite sure what the main differences between SMILE and LASIK surgery are? Here are a few key differences between the two procedures:
LASIK creates a much larger incision (270-degree) than SMILE does (about 60-degree).
LASIK creates a circular flap incision whereas SMILE creates an incision into a pocket underlying a cap of tissue. In other words, LASIK is a more invasive procedure than SMILE and requires a corneal flap whereas SMILE does not.
SMILE surgery has a smaller pool of candidates than LASIK because it is only available to myopic patients who have a prescription between -1.00 and -8.00 diopters and no more than -.50 diopters of myopic astigmatism. On the other hand, about 96% of all refractive surgery is done with LASIK surgery.
There is less risk of dry eye after SMILE surgery than LASIK because a smaller incision means fewer nerves are cut out.
LASIK surgery can be impacted by environmental room conditions. On the other hand, SMILE is not affected by the temperature or humidity of the operating room.
Most LASIK patients experience 20/20 vision within 24 hours of surgery while SMILE patients’ vision is typically restored within 24 hours and takes longer to achieve full 20/20 vision.
Similarities between SMILE and LASIK
Both SMILE and LASIK are a two step procedure with low risk and fast results.
As for LASIK eye surgery cost, it does not differ all that much from SMILE. On average, the cost of SMILE and LASIK surgery is between $1,800 and $3,600 per eye.
Excel Laser Vision Institute Can Help
Excel Laser Vision Institute is a reputable name in vision care and surgery. If you are still not sure if SMILE or LASIK in Encino or Los Angeles is right for you, you can set up a free consultation with us to determine which surgery you qualify for. For more information, you can call us at (310) 905-8622.
