Laser eye surgery is a safe and popular way to correct vision. People who do not want to wear glasses or contact lenses often choose this method. Two of the most used laser surgeries today are SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery. These surgeries are done to fix common eye problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Both methods help people see clearly again. But the way these two surgeries are done is different. The tools, healing time and results also vary. People must understand these differences to choose the right one.
What Is LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK is short for Laser Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis. It is one of the oldest and most common types of laser eye surgery. In LASIK, a doctor cuts a thin flap on the top of the cornea. Then, a laser is used to reshape the inner layer of the cornea. The flap is then placed back on top.
LASIK is known for giving fast results. Many people can see clearly just one day after the surgery. The surgery takes only 15 to 20 minutes. There is no need to stay in the hospital. A simple eye check up before surgery is enough to decide if a person is ready for it. In the comparison of SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery, LASIK is a quicker method but uses more cutting.
What Is SMILE Eye Surgery?
SMILE means Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. This is a newer and more modern eye surgery. In SMILE the doctor does not make a big flap. Instead the laser cuts a small piece of tissue inside the cornea. This piece is called a lenticule. The doctor takes it out through a very small opening. This changes the shape of the cornea and improves the vision.
One big difference in SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery is that SMILE does not need a large cut. The surface of the eye stays almost untouched. Because of this the cornea stays strong after the surgery. The risk of flap complications is not there in SMILE. It is very helpful for people who have dry eyes or thin corneas.
Safety Comparison Between SMILE and LASIK
Both surgeries are safe when done by trained doctors. Still there are some small safety differences. In LASIK the flap made on the eye may move or get damaged if someone rubs their eyes or gets hit. This is rare but can happen. Extra care is needed in the days after surgery.
SMILE does not involve any flap. There is only a small opening made in the cornea. This means the eye surface stays strong. The chance of any long term problem is lower. In SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery, SMILE is more stable for people who do physical work or play sports.
Comfort and Pain During the Surgery
Most people worry about pain during surgery. Both LASIK and SMILE are painless. Doctors use numbing eye drops before the surgery. So there is no pain during the process. After surgery, some people feel mild discomfort.
In LASIK, eyes may feel dry or scratchy for a few hours. In SMILE there may be some pressure during the procedure, but dryness is less. SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery shows that SMILE is more comfortable for people with dry eyes. Both surgeries are safe and pain is usually not a big problem.
Healing and Recovery Time
LASIK is known for fast healing. Most people can return to work or daily activities within 2–3 days. Clear vision often comes on the first or second day. After that, regular eye drops and simple care are enough.
SMILE takes a little more time. Vision becomes better slowly, over 3 to 5 days. But the eye becomes strong after healing. There is no flap to protect. That makes SMILE better for long term stability. In SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery, LASIK is better for fast results, while SMILE gives stronger healing.
Who Can Choose These Surgeries?
Not every person is fit for both surgeries. Before the surgery, doctors do eye tests. They check cornea thickness, dryness and other health conditions. People with healthy and thick corneas can choose LASIK. People with thin or dry eyes may be better for SMILE.
Doctors will also check age and lifestyle. If a person is very active or plays sports, SMILE may be safer. For others who want fast recovery, LASIK may be better. In SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery the final decision should be based on test results and doctor advice.
Cost of the Surgery
Cost can change depending on the clinic and technology. LASIK is an older and more common surgery. That is why it is cheaper. SMILE is newer and uses different machines. So, it may cost more.
If someone wants to know about LASIK Surgery Cost in Delhi, it usually starts from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per eye. SMILE may cost around ₹50,000 to ₹80,000 per eye. Prices also change based on the brand of laser machine used, surgeon experience and eye condition.
Pros and Cons of Both Surgeries
Here is a simple comparison of SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery in a table format:
| Feature | LASIK | SMILE |
| Flap Creation | Yes | No |
| Recovery Speed | 1–2 days | 3–5 days |
| Pain or Discomfort | Mild dryness | Mild pressure |
| Dry Eye Risk | Higher | Lower |
| Eye Strength After Surgery | Medium | High |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Both surgeries are good. Each has its benefits and limits. Choosing the right one depends on eye condition and personal needs.
Conclusion
There is no single answer to this. In the case of SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery, both are effective. Both give clear vision and are safe. The better choice depends on many things. These include cornea thickness, eye moisture, age, activity level and budget.
Doctors will help decide which surgery is best. Patients should not choose on their own. A full eye test is important before surgery. A trained doctor will check all reports and give the best advice.
Both LASIK and SMILE are helpful laser surgeries. They correct vision problems in a safe way. LASIK gives fast results but needs a flap. SMILE is flapless and keeps the cornea strong. Both are good options based on the eye condition. People who are planning to get SMILE Eye Surgery should speak to experts, get their eye tests done and choose carefully.
At Viaan Eye and Retina Centre, we have trained doctors who guide each patient and help them select the best option for safe and clear vision.