Introduction
LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE are the different procedures for correcting refractive errors like myopia (short sightedness) Astigmatism and Hypermetropia ( Far sightedness) Different procedures have their own advantages. Consult your ophthalmologists for the option that suits you the best.
LASIK
LASIK is one of the most common and safe eye surgeries performed throughout the world for correcting refractive errors in the eyes. It has been estimated that almost 50 million procedures involving LASIK have been done. The procedure of LASIK involves the formation of a thin corneal flap thorough a microkeratome or a Femtosecond laser. With the help of an excimer laser, the corneal tissue is reshaped. The flap is placed back to its normal position and allowed to heal. The complete process is completed within a few minutes. Most patients do not experience any pain during the procedure, just a mild discomfort.
With time, advanced treatment and various modifications of LASIK surgery have evolved. This has made the procedure more advanced and safe than before. Technologies such as wavefront technology provide customized treatment to the patients.
LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In-situ Keratomileusis. A laser is used in the LASIK procedure for making the corneal flap and reshaping the cornea. The laser used for making the corneal flap very precise and Bladefree or Bladeless is with use of the Femtosecond laser while excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea. The term "assisted” clearly indicates that the Laser only assists in the procedure. The main and important work is done by the surgeon. It is, thus, important that you should choose a surgeon who has the experience and a high success rate in doing LASIK surgery. The term "in-situ" means that the surgery is done within the eye and with the cornea in its place. Keratomileusis is the process through which the excimer laser precisely and accurately reshapes the cornea.
LASEK
LASEK is laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy. It comprises various advanced technologies that involve surface laser ablation. One of the procedures is photorefractive keratectomy. The LASEK does not involve the formation of the corneal flap. The epithelial surface of the cornea is disrupted through laser and takes time to regrow. The patient experiences discomfort during the recovery period as the procedure may cause blurred vision for a few days. The procedure is painful as compared to LASIK surgery. Various advanced procedures are available in LASEK surgery.
SMILE
SMILE is also known as Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. It is a minimally invasive surgery and provides results similar to LASIK surgery. The surgery is minimally invasive because there is no need to form the corneal flap. A small incision is made on the cornea. Through this incision, a disc of corneal tissue is removed and cornea is reshaped to improve vision. The surgery is done through a computer-guided laser for improved accuracy and precision. The process is similar to Bladeless Lasik and painless and the surgery causes no or very little discomfort to patients.
Difference Between LASIK, LASEK, AND SMILE
Each of the three procedures provides improved vision with low risk. The choice of surgery depends upon the goal of treatment and underlying medical conditions. LASIK surgery is a highly effective procedure with a well-documented safety profile. LASEK, although it is painful causes discomfort during the recovery period. SMILE is minimally invasive and has fewer complications. However, SMILE is comparatively same as Bladefree Lasik , it is a relatively new surgical procedure, and all the complications maybe not known yet. LASEK, because of its complicated recovery is only suggested when the patient is unable to undergo LASIK surgery. At present, it seems that Bladeless or Bladefree LASIK surgery is the preferred choice among ophthalmologists for correcting refractive errors.
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