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The Fundamental Differences between SMILE, LASIK and PRK Eye Procedures

It’s important to familiarize yourself with the different laser vision correction options. Here, Dr. Sheldon Herzig breaks down the differences between PRK, LASIK, and SMILE. 

Difference in Treatment 

LASIK (laser assisted in situ keratomileusis) is the most widely performed laser vision correction procedure in the world. It is designed to treat a wide range of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) also treats nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) is the latest generation in the evolution of laser vision correction. It is designed to treat nearsightedness and astigmatism. 

Difference in Procedures

LASIK involves reshaping the cornea so the light that enters the eye is more focused to the retina, thus improving vision. During LASIK, a femtosecond laser creates a thin circular flap on the tissue of the outer cornea to expose the bed of the cornea. Next, an excimer laser removes a small amount of tissue to reshape the cornea. The corneal flap is then carefully placed back where it will heal itself over time. During PRK, the cornea is also reshaped but no corneal flap is created. Instead, the top cell layer of the cornea, known as the epithelium, is removed, exposing the internal tissues of the cornea. An excimer laser reshapes the cornea to correct vision. Following PRK, a soft contact lens is placed over the treated eye, acting as a bandage while the epithelium heals. PRK may be an appropriate choice for patients with very thin corneas. SMILE does not use an excimer laser to remove corneal tissue nor does it involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, a femtosecond laser is used to create a small lens-shaped piece of tissue, known as a lenticule, within the cornea. The same laser is used to create a tiny incision on the surface of the cornea to extract the lenticule. This process reshapes the cornea, allowing it to focus light more clearly on the retina. 

Recocery 

Recovery with LASIK and SMILE is similar; most patients are able to resume their normal activities the day after surgery. An advantage to SMILE is that it minimizes the likelihood of dry eye after surgery. Arguably, PRK has a lengthier recovery period; patients are able to resume all normal activities approximately one week after surgery. 

Find the right procedure for you 

The only way to determine which laser vision correction procedure is right for you is to schedule a personal consultation with an opthalomologist. During your consultation, we will thoroughly evaluate your eye health and vision needs to determine the appropriate treatment option. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology and equipment to diagnose your vision problems and design a customized treatment plan leads to the best visual outcomes. 

Get started on the road towards crisper and clearer vision by scheduling a consultation with our ophthalmologist in Toronto. Feel free to contact Herzig Eye Institute to speak to a member of the team today.