LASIK vs SMILE vs LASEK: Which Laser Eye Surgery Is Best for You?

Thinking about life without glasses or contact lenses? You’ve likely come across different types of laser eye surgery — the most common being LASIK, alongside newer alternatives such as SMILE and LASEK/PRK. Each has its own benefits, limitations, and suitability criteria, which means the “best” option depends entirely on your eyes, lifestyle, and long-term vision goals.

At Optimal Vision, London, our lead surgeon Dr Amir Mani — recognised as one of the best laser eye surgeons in London — performs all three procedures with outstanding success rates. Here’s a clear, comprehensive guide to help you compare LASIK vs SMILE vs LASEK and make an informed choice.

Why Are There Different Types of Laser Eye Surgery?

Every patient’s eyes are unique. Factors such as corneal thickness, prescription strength, age, dry eye risk, and even lifestyle (e.g. contact sports or screen use) affect which surgery is safest. Advances in laser technology now allow surgeons to reshape the cornea using different methods — meaning we can create personalised treatment plans instead of a one-size-fits-all solution.

What Is LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is the most widely performed procedure worldwide.

How LASIK works:

• A femtosecond laser creates a thin flap in the cornea.
• An excimer laser reshapes the corneal tissue to correct vision.
• The flap is repositioned, bonding naturally without stitches.

Advantages:

• Fast recovery — most patients see clearly within 24–48 hours.
• Minimal discomfort during and after surgery.
• Suitable for a wide prescription range.
• Excellent safety record and long-term results.
• Can be enhanced with Wavefront technology for customised correction.

Considerations:

• Small risk of flap complications (especially for contact sports players).
• Can cause or worsen dry eye in some patients.
• Not ideal for people with very thin corneas.

What Is SMILE?

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive alternative.

How SMILE works:

• A femtosecond laser creates a small disc of tissue (lenticule) inside the cornea.
• The lenticule is removed through a tiny incision, reshaping the cornea.
• No flap is created.

Advantages:

• Stronger corneal structure (no flap).
• Lower risk of post-surgery dry eye.
• Excellent results for short-sightedness and astigmatism.

Limitations:

• Not currently available for long-sightedness.
• Narrower prescription range than LASIK.
• Slightly slower visual recovery compared to LASIK.
• Wavefront technology not yet available for SMILE.

What Is LASEK / PRK?

LASEK (Laser-Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) are surface procedures.

How LASEK/PRK works:

• The corneal surface layer (epithelium) is gently removed.
• An excimer laser reshapes the underlying cornea.
• The epithelium is repositioned (LASEK) or allowed to regrow (PRK).

Advantages:

• No corneal flap — safer for thin corneas or patients at risk of trauma.
• Effective for patients unsuitable for LASIK or SMILE.
• Comparable long-term results to LASIK.

Considerations:

• Longer recovery (vision clears over 1–4 weeks).
• More discomfort in early healing.
• Protective bandage contact lens required for a few days.

Which Surgery Is Best for You?

There is no “one best laser eye surgery.” Instead, the safest and most effective option depends on your individual eyes:

• LASIK→fast results, proven outcomes, suitable for most patients.
• SMILE→flap-free, stronger cornea, reduced dry eye risk.
• LASEK/PRK→ideal for thin corneas or patients unsuitable for LASIK/SMILE.

Clinical outcomes:

• Over 95% of LASIK patients achieve 20/20 or better vision.
• SMILE patients often report fewer dry eye symptoms.
• LASEK/PRK achieves LASIK-equivalent vision once healing is complete.

What Happens at a Consultation?

At Optimal Vision, your consultation with Dr Amir Mani includes:

• Advanced corneal scans (topography, pachymetry).
• Full prescription and eye health check.
• Dry eye assessment.
• Discussion of your lifestyle, job, and hobbies.

As one of the most experienced laser eye surgeons in London, Dr Mani ensures you’re recommended the safest and most effective treatment for your eyes. Many patients who come in asking for LASIK discover SMILE or LASEK is actually the best choice for them.

FAQs

Is laser eye surgery painful?

No — anaesthetic drops numb your eyes. Most patients feel only mild pressure or light sensitivity.

Can everyone have LASIK?

Not always. If you have thin corneas or play high-impact sports, SMILE or LASEK may be safer.

Will I ever need glasses again?

Laser surgery corrects your current prescription, but natural age-related changes (presbyopia) may require reading glasses later in life.

Why Choose Optimal Vision in London?

• Led by Dr Amir Mani — one of the best laser eye surgeons in London, with over 20,000 successful procedures
• Specialist team with decades of combined experience.
• State-of-the-art femtosecond laser and diagnostic technology.
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
• Comprehensive aftercare with unlimited follow-ups.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a candidate for LASIK, SMILE, or LASEK, modern laser eye surgery is one of the safest and most effective ways to achieve clear vision. The key is a personalised assessment by an experienced surgeon.

At Optimal Vision London, under the expertise of Dr Amir Mani, patients consistently achieve life-changing results and the best possible vision outcomes.