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| LASIK | LASEK | PRK | SMILE | |
| Method of accessing cornea | Laser-created corneal flap | Softening of the corneal epithelium with alcohol | Complete removal of the outermost corneal layer | Laser-created corneal incision only 2-3 mm wide |
| Best for patients with… | Healthy corneas, moderate refractive error | Thin corneas, lifestyles where regular contact or blows may happen around the eyes | Thin corneas, lifestyles where regular contact or blows may happen around the eyes | Healthy and unscarred corneas, moderate refractive errors |
| Recovery period | 2-3 months | 4 months | 4 months | 2-3 months |
| Availability at eye clinics | High | High | High | Moderate |
| Pros | High rate of success, fastest visual recovery among the 4 methods discussed here, performed by many clinics | A better procedure for those with thin corneas, preferred for athletes in high-contact sports, reduces risk of flap-related complication | A better procedure for those with thin Corneas, preferred for athletes in high-contact sports | No-flap technique makes it suitable for athletes, slightly faster recovery than LASEK or PRK |
| Cons | Not advised for some people, e.g. those with thin corneas (LASEK and PRK are better options for them) | Slower onset of improvements in vision post-procedure, epithelial healing can be uncomfortable in the first 4 days, risk of corneal haze | Slower onset of improvements in vision post-procedure, epithelial healing can be uncomfortable in the first 4 days, risk of corneal haze | Irreversible, cannot be used to treat farsightedness and high astigmatism, requires PRK as a solution in case of inaccurate results |
This should have helped you get an idea of how LASIK, LASEK, PRK, and SMILE differ from each other. While all four obviously have similarities, the suitability of each procedure depends on so many factors, from your eye condition to your lifestyle.
Have a thorough discussion with our experienced eye surgeon. We can evaluate your eyes and provide personalised recommendations to determine the most suitable option for you. No two persons nor two eyes are the same. Our doctor will review the data of your eyes and advise you on the most suitable method for you.
Call us to enquire or book an appointment for a pre-lasik assessment today.
