Ready to experience life without glasses or contacts? At Corsini Laser Eye Center, your vision deserves the highest level of care delivered with precision, compassion, and the expertise of a board-certified ophthalmologist. While LASIK has long set the standard in laser vision correction, the arrival of SMILE surgery—a sophisticated, minimally invasive alternative—gives patients an additional option in their journey to visual freedom. Knowing the differences between LASIK vs. SMILE surgery is essential to choosing the procedure that best fits your unique vision and lifestyle.
LASIK vs. SMILE Surgery – Procedure Approach
Both LASIK and SMILE surgery are advanced, laser-based vision correction procedures designed to correct refractive errors by reshaping your cornea—the clear, front surface of your eye—to precisely refocus light onto the retina. Their shared goal is to deliver a crystal-clear vision without the need for glasses or contacts. Yet, each achieves this through distinct, expertly refined techniques.
What is LASIK Surgery?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is the gold standard in laser vision correction, performed on millions worldwide and refined here at Corsini Laser Eye Center. Dr. Jonathan Corsini, a board-certified ophthalmologist with military training and one of Philadelphia’s premier custom LASIK surgeons, uses the latest technology, including the Zeiss VisuMax Femtosecond Laser and the Wavelight EX500 Excimer Laser, to ensure unparalleled precision and safety.
- How Is It Performed? After numbing drops are applied for comfort, a femtosecond laser creates a delicate corneal flap. An excimer laser then reshapes the cornea to your exact prescription, and the flap is repositioned to promote rapid healing—no stitches required.
- Best For? This FDA-approved procedure treats myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, with most patients enjoying remarkable visual clarity within 24 hours.
What is SMILE Surgery?
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser treatment that preserves more corneal tissue than LASIK with its flapless approach.
- How Does SMILE Work? A femtosecond laser creates a precise lenticule within the cornea, which is removed through a tiny keyhole incision. This flapless, minimally invasive approach reshapes the cornea and corrects your vision with minimal disruption.
- Best Suited For? SMILE is FDA-approved for myopia and astigmatism, offering reduced dry eye risk and enhanced corneal stability—ideal for active lifestyles, those with thin corneas, and individuals seeking the utmost in minimally invasive care.
LASIK vs. SMILE Surgery – A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | LASIK | SMILE |
| FDA Approval | 1998 | 2016 |
| Refractive Errors Treated | Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism | Myopia, Astigmatism |
| Visual Acuity | Both achieve 20/20 vision or better for over 90% of patients. | |
| Laser Type Used | Femtosecond (Flap), Excimer (Reshaping) | Femtosecond (Incision & Lenticule) |
| Minimum Age | 18+ | 22+ |
| Corneal Flap | Yes | No |
| Incision Size | ~20-24 mm | ~2-4 mm |
Recovery | Remarkable Clarity in 24 Hours. Exercise and eye-rubbing restrictions for 1 week. Additional healing that lasts 1-3 months | Remarkable Clarity in 24-48 Hours. No exercise restrictions for most patients. Additional healing that lasts 1-3 months |
| Dry Eye Risk | Expected dry eye symptoms during recovery, with < 1% of patients having clinically significant dry eye after a few months | Minimal dry eye symptoms during initial recovery that very rarely persist after a few months. |
| Thin Corneas | Limited | Better Suited |
| Night Vision Outcomes | Exceptional With Advanced LASIK | Excellent |
| Flap Complications | Rare, But Possible | None |
| Cost | Get Pricing From Corsini Laser Eye | |
Which Is Better For You – LASIK vs. SMILE Surgery?
So, how do you choose between LASIK and SMILE? The question of which is better for you is highly personal and depends on your unique eyes, prescription, corneal characteristics, overall health, and lifestyle.
LASIK Is Better If
- You have hyperopia or mixed astigmatism, and visual aids are no longer working for you.
- You have healthy, thick corneas that are suitable for flap creation.
- You aren’t in an occupation with an increased risk of eye trauma.
- You prioritize the best correction for night vision and higher-order aberrations.
- You’re 18+ with a stable prescription.
SMILE Is Better If
- You have myopia or myopic astigmatism and prefer a flapless procedure.
- You have thinner corneas or want to minimize dry eye risk.
- You lead an active, athletic lifestyle where flap complications are a concern.
- You seek minimally invasive technology with a small incision.
- You’re 22+ with a stable prescription.
Both are excellent choices if you want to be free from glasses or contact lenses, and your eyes and prescription qualify for either procedure, as confirmed through an in-depth consultation and eye examination appointment with Dr. Corsini. Together, we’ll find the best solution to help you enjoy a clear, confident vision for years to come.
Your Journey to “20/Happy” Vision Starts Here
At Corsini Laser Eye Center, we recognize that your vision is personal and your journey to visual freedom is unique. That’s why your experience begins with a complimentary, no-pressure consultation where Dr. Corsini and his dedicated team take the time to listen, perform advanced diagnostics, and craft a treatment plan tailored precisely to your eyes and lifestyle. No matter which one of our treatments — LASIK, SMILE, PRK, or Contoura Vision is the best fit for you, you’ll receive expert care rooted in compassion, transparency, and a commitment to your lifelong visual happiness. With direct access to Philadelphia’s most trusted laser eye surgeon, you can confidently move forward. Take the first step by booking an appointment and discover the Corsini difference.