SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery: Procedure Differences, Benefits, Costs & Recovery

If you’re exploring laser vision correction, you’ll likely come across two of the most popular technologies: LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). Although both aim to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, they differ in how they’re performed, what they’re best suited for, recovery times, costs and benefits. In this blog we’ll walk you through the key aspects so you can better understand which might be a better fit for you.

What are LASIK and SMILE?

LASIK: In this procedure, a thin flap is created in the cornea (either via micro-keratome blade or femtosecond laser), the flap is lifted, and then an excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to correct refractive error. Afterwards the flap is repositioned.
SMILE: This is a more recent technique. A femtosecond laser creates a lenticule (a thin disc of corneal tissue) inside the cornea, and then through a very small incision that lenticule is removed. There is no full corneal flap.

Procedure differences

Here are key comparison points between SMILE vs LASIK:

• Corneal flap vs none: LASIK requires creating a flap. SMILE is flap-free, using a very small incision.
• Incision size: LASIK ~10-20 mm flap circumference; SMILE incision is much smaller (~2-4 mm) for the lenticule extraction.
• Tissue removal / approach: In LASIK the flap is lifted and then tissue ablation occurs. In SMILE the lenticule is cut within the cornea and removed without a flap.
• Range of correction / suitability: LASIK has been used for a broader range of refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism). SMILE is primarily for myopia and myopic astigmatism (in many places) and less so for hyperopia yet.
• Biomechanical and nerve impact: Because SMILE disrupts fewer corneal nerves (smaller incision, no flap), there is potentially less risk of dry eye and better preservation of corneal biomechanics.

 Benefits of each

Benefits of LASIK

• Long track record, many surgeons experienced with it.
• Very quick visual recovery in many cases (often within 24-48 hours) because of established technique.
• Broad eligibility for different types of refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism) in many centres.

Benefits of SMILE

• Minimally invasive: smaller incision, no flap means fewer flap-related complications (e.g., flap displacement) and possibly less post-operative dry eye.
• Better biomechanical strength of cornea post-procedure (because more of the anterior lamellae remain intact) according to some studies.
• Good option for people with active lifestyles or sports, where flap displacement is a concern.

Costs (and factors influencing cost)

When comparing the cost of SMILE vs LASIK, some clinics quote similar pricing for both, while others may charge a bit more for SMILE due to newer technology and equipment. For instance:

• One review says the cost of SMILE and LASIK were comparable, being based largely on the severity of correction required rather than simply the procedure type.
• Because SMILE requires specific femtosecond laser platforms and may be newer in some markets, cost may vary depending on the clinic, region, equipment, surgeon experience, etc.

In the Indian context (such as at a clinic like Atharva Eye Clinic), these same influencing factors apply: technology, surgeon skill, pre- and post-op care, and package inclusions all matter in what you ultimately pay.

Recovery & risks

Recovery

• With LASIK, many patients achieve usable vision within 24 hours and may resume normal activities quickly (though full healing takes longer).
• With SMILE, while many get very good vision quickly, some studies suggest full visual recovery may be marginally slower compared to LASIK in the early hours, though difference narrows with time.
• Both procedures are outpatient, relatively brief, and use local anaesthesia (numbing drops).

Risks & considerations

• LASIK’s flap means there is a possibility (though rare) of flap-related complications (dislocation, trauma to flap, etc). SMILE avoids that risk because there is no flap.
• Dry eye: LASIK tends to have a higher incidence of post-operative dry eye than SMILE, given the greater nerve transection.
• Suitability: Some eyes may not be ideal candidates for SMILE (e.g., very high hyperopia, certain corneal shapes) while LASIK might still be feasible.
• Retreatment or enhancement: Every surgery has a small chance of needing enhancement. Because SMILE is newer, options and experience vary by clinic. It’s important to check how a clinic handles enhancements/re-treatments.

Which is the right choice for you?

Choosing between SMILE vs LASIK isn’t just about one being “better” than the other; it’s about what suits your eyes, lifestyle, and goals. Here are some questions to discuss with your surgeon:

• What is your refractive error (myopia/hyperopia/astigmatism)? Is your prescription stable?
• What is your corneal thickness and shape? Do you have thin corneas?
• Do you have dry eye issues currently or risk factors for dry eye?
• Do you lead a high-impact lifestyle (sports, heavy outdoor activity) where flap stability might matter?
• What technology does the clinic use? How experienced is the surgeon with SMILE vs LASIK?
• What is included in the package (pre-op tests, post-op visits, medication, enhancements if needed)?
• What does recovery look like for you — how soon you need to resume work, activities, etc.?

At Atharva Eye Clinic, a detailed consultation and eye examination will determine which procedure you are best suited for—because regardless of SMILE or LASIK, the goal is safe, clear vision with minimal complications.

Summary

• Procedure: LASIK uses a corneal flap + laser ablation; SMILE uses a small incision and removes a lenticule without a flap.
• Benefits: LASIK offers a long track record, quick recovery; SMILE offers reduced flap-risk, fewer dry-eye problems, stronger biomechanical integrity.
• Costs: Are broadly similar in many markets but depend heavily on clinic, technology, surgeon, geographic region, and complexity of your case.
• Recovery & Risks: Both are effective and safe; differences lie in flap-related complications and dry eye risk.
• Fit for you: Depends on your eye health, refractive error, lifestyle, and the clinic’s expertise.

If you’d like more tailored information about how these options apply in the context of Kalyan & Maharashtra (including costs, surgeon profiles, or which procedure we recommend at Atharva Eye Clinic), we’d be happy to provide that. Just let me know!