Comparing LASIK and SMILE
- Posted on: May 22 2020
For decades, LASIK was the coolest acronym in vision correction surgery. The shorthand for laser in-situ keratomileusis sounded both high-tech and sci-fi. But the newest name in laser eye surgery says it all: SMILE is Small incision lenticule extraction, and it’s also what happens when you experience clear, panoramic vision without lenses for the first time.
This innovative technology is a great option for patients who seek improved comfort, convenience and safety in a nearsighted laser vision correction procedure. Below, experienced Manhattan and Astoria ophthalmologist Dr. Gregory Pamel compares SMILE with traditional LASIK, and discusses the unique benefits of each.
High-Definition SMILE
Although LASIK is extremely convenient, SMILE takes that one step further. During LASIK, the laser is in contact with the cornea for 40 seconds or less. During a SMILE procedure at Pamel Vision & Laser Group, our advanced VisuMax femtosecond laser reshapes the cornea in 25 seconds, using a tiny “keyhole” incision to access the middle layer of the cornea.
With SMILE, an ophthalmologist does not need to create a flap to access areas of the cornea that will be reshaped, which is the typical LASIK technique. Benefits of using one small incision include faster recovery and even less discomfort than the already pain-free LASIK vision correction procedure. Less operating time and fewer incisions mean the risks of complications are lower too. Because there is no need to create a flap, patients are less likely to develop dry eye, and there is no chance of a flap healing improperly or becoming detached.
Popular and Proven
SMILE was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2016, but has been available for a decade in many European countries, where it has established a solid track record of success. To date, SMILE has been performed at least 1 million times worldwide.
Trusted New York City ophthalmologist Dr. Pamel offers SMILE for myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism, but the technique is also being clinically tested to determine whether patients with hyperopia (farsightedness), presbyopia or keratoconus can use SMILE to sharpen their eyesight. With continual refinement of the technology, there is no question that almost all vision correction patients will eventually be able to benefit from this exceptional procedure.
To learn more about LASIK or SMILE, schedule an appointment with Dr. Pamel at his Manhattan or Astoria office by contacting Pamel Vision & Laser Group today.
Posted in: LASIK
