Choosing between SMILE and LASIK is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when considering laser vision correction. Both procedures are safe, effective, and widely performed, but they aren’t identical. In certain cases, SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) may be the better choice for long‑term comfort and visual stability.

If you’re exploring laser eye surgery in Crestview, Florida, here’s a clear breakdown of when SMILE may offer advantages over LASIK.

What’s the Difference Between SMILE and LASIK?

LASIK

• A thin corneal flap is created
• A laser reshapes the underlying cornea
• The flap is repositioned at the end
• Fast recovery and excellent visual outcomes

SMILE

• No corneal flap is created
• A tiny 2–4 mm incision is made
• A small lenticule of tissue is removed to reshape the cornea
• Minimally invasive with a strong safety profile

When SMILE Is the Better Choice

1. You Have Dry Eye Symptoms

SMILE uses a much smaller incision than LASIK, which helps preserve more corneal nerves. This often leads to:

• Less post‑procedure dryness
• Faster tear‑film recovery

If you already struggle with dry eyes, SMILE may offer a more comfortable experience.

2. You Have a High Prescription

SMILE is especially effective for:

• Moderate to high myopia
• Astigmatism (within treatable ranges)

Patients with stronger prescriptions may experience more stable long‑term results with SMILE.

3. You Prefer a Flap‑Free Procedure

Because SMILE does not create a corneal flap, it eliminates flap‑related risks such as:

• Flap displacement
• Flap wrinkles
• Trauma‑related complications

This makes SMILE a great option for military members, police officers, athletes, and anyone with an active lifestyle.

4. You Want a Minimally Invasive Approach

SMILE uses a single laser and a tiny incision. Benefits include:

• Less disruption to corneal structure
• Faster healing
• Lower risk of dry eye and nerve damage

5. You’re Concerned About Corneal Strength

SMILE preserves more of the anterior cornea, which plays a key role in long‑term structural stability. For some patients, this makes SMILE the safer choice.

When LASIK May Still Be Better

While SMILE offers unique advantages, LASIK may be preferred if:

• You have hyperopia (farsightedness)
• You need very precise astigmatism correction
• You want the fastest possible visual recovery

A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to determine which procedure is best for your eyes.

Bottom Line

SMILE is often the better laser eye procedure for people with dry eyes, higher prescriptions, active lifestyles, or those who prefer a flap‑free, minimally invasive approach. LASIK remains an excellent option for many patients, but SMILE provides specific benefits that make it the superior choice in certain situations.

See if you are a candidate for SMILE. Call Alabata Eye Center at (850) 331-3937 or complete this form to schedule your free in-person Laser Vision Correction screening. A referral is not necessary. Thank you for trusting our professional services!

Phil Alabata

Phil Alabata, D.O. completed his ophthalmology residency at the world-renowned Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. He completed his Glaucoma Fellowship at the distinguished Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA. He trained and staffed ophthalmology residents in both eye care and surgical techniques at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, and the University of Florida Health in Jacksonville, Florida. Dr. Alabata practiced as a military physician for nine years and was instrumental in providing LASER VISION correction surgeries for special operations soldiers by innovating Fort Benning’s Warfighter Refractive Eye Surgery Program, one of many throughout the world. He served as the Chief of the Department of Ophthalmology and Assistant Chief of Surgery at Martin Army Community Hospital at Fort Benning, Georgia. Dr. Alabata brings over 20 years of experience and proficiency in many different areas of eye surgery. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology, a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Florida Society of Ophthalmology, Society of Military Ophthalmologist, Florida Osteopathic Medical Association, Emerald Coast Health Alliance, and the American Medical Association. Board Certified Ophthalmologist • LASIK Surgeon • LASER-Assisted Cataract Surgeon • Fellowship Trained Glaucoma Specialist

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