LASIK vs SMILE laser eye procedures

There is some confusion as to which is better Lasik vs Smile and it is good to know the technology used in doing these LASIK eye procedures. Since the L in LASIK stands for laser, there can be no doubt that lasers get used. The cornea is pierced with a microkeratome or femtosecond laser, and a hinged flap is created (usually around 20mm). Excimer lasers get used to reshape corneal tissue so it can more efficiently refract light. The flap is then repositioned and will heal naturally over the next week.

The initial flap in ReLEx SMILE is made using lasers, requiring only an opening of 4 millimeters wide. Lasering the corneal tissue creates an additional flap that is sculpted away and removed precisely. The cornea naturally heals within a few days of surgery, and vision improves simultaneously.

Small changes in the procedure can make a big difference in a complex and delicate body like the human eye. SMILE and LASIK are effective procedures, but understanding what each can do is essential before deciding.

Studies show that ReLEx SMILE and LASIK do not produce significantly different outcomes when treating nearsightedness. Only one of the 328 patients who received SMILE procedures did not achieve uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) of 20/40 or better after the surgery, while almost 90% achieved 20/20 vision.

According to this study, ReLEx SMILE procedures may reduce dry eye symptoms compared to LASIK. SMILE does not create a large 20mm corneal flap, so it does not irritate corneal nerves or produce negative symptoms. Due to its smaller incision, the SMILE procedure may also maintain eye biomechanical stability, unlike LASIK, which causes more significant trauma to the eye.

A second enhancement pass is necessary when nearsightedness is severe, and LASIK alone is not enough. SMILE may be more effective in correcting severe myopia in the same cases. The cornea is not dehydrated by SMILE like it is by LASIK.

SMILE vs. LASIK: Some limitations

The advantages of SMILE can only partially replace LASIK, and some things are better with LASIK than with SMILE.

It is best suited for correcting nearsightedness. For patients with farsightedness or hyperopia, LASIK is the best option. SMILE requires more reshaping to correct farsightedness or astigmatism than lenticule removal. SMILE is already used to correct mild farsightedness in Europe, and as technology advances, similar applications may be available here soon.

Higher aberrations can also be treated with LASIK and PRK. It is impossible to fix night vision issues with SMILE, and an HOA can make it less appealing. A healthy eye may suffer less surface damage from SMILE, but it could worsen existing aberrations. PRK may be the most appropriate procedure if SMILE causes refractive errors.

Cost Comparison Between Lasik and Smile Eye Surgery

Procedure	City	AED Price	Price
Ultra LASIK	Dubai	4000 AED for both	£898 both eyes
Femto Lasik	Dubai	8,000 AED for both	£1797 for both eyes
Smile ReLEx	Dubai	10,000 AED for both	£2,246 both eyes

Many people choose Dubai for their Lasik procedures based on price, quality and service. Doing your Lasik in Dubai at the North American Lasik Eye Centre is a great choice for those that are looking for a clinic that has done over 16,000 successful eye surgeries. Knowing the cost of lasik in Dubai helps you compare prices in your local area. For those living in Abu Dhabi, the lasik eye surgery cost is very affordable since it is only a 1 hour drive to Dubai.