Femto-LASIK vs. SMILE® PRO – an overview of the differences

Choosing between Femto-LASIK and SMILE^® PRO can be a crucial decision for anyone seeking to correct a refractive error with laser eye surgery. Both methods offer state-of-the-art techniques for improving vision, but they differ in their procedures, healing times, and potential risks.

In this post, we compare Femto-LASIK and SMILE^® PRO in detail to help you choose the best laser eye procedure for your needs. Whether you’re looking to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, learn the pros and cons of each method and find out which might be right for you.

How does Femto-LASIK work?

Femto-LASIK is a high-precision procedure for correcting refractive errors such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism. The procedure begins with the creation of a thin corneal flap using a femtosecond laser. This laser operates extremely quickly and precisely, thereby preserving the surrounding tissue.

After the flap has been prepared and folded back, an excimer laser is used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue and correct the refractive error. Finally, the flap is repositioned, where it adheres without sutures.

At Bányai Neue Augen, Femto-LASIK is used to treat nearsightedness up to -10 diopters, farsightedness up to +4 diopters, and astigmatism up to 6 diopters. The procedure allows for rapid healing and fast results, and thorough aftercare is important to ensure optimal outcomes.

How does laser eye surgery with SMILE^® PRO work?

SMILE^® PRO, a further development of the ReLEx® SMILE method, is a minimally invasive procedure to correct myopia and astigmatism. A femtosecond laser creates a small lenticule within the cornea, which is removed through a tiny incision. This reshapes the cornea and corrects the refractive error.

At Bányai Neue Augen, SMILE^® PRO is used to treat nearsightedness up to −10 diopters and astigmatism up to 5 diopters. This technique does not require a corneal flap, helping to maintain corneal stability and reducing the risk of complications such as dry eyes. It is particularly suitable for patients with higher prescriptions and an active lifestyle.

Femto-LASIK vs. SMILE^® PRO: Recovery

Healing time after Femto-LASIK is short, and most patients can see well again the next day. However, the flap requires some time to heal completely, so certain activities that could strain the eyes should be avoided.

SMILE^® PRO has an even shorter healing time because no large flap is created. This preserves the stability of the cornea and reduces the risks associated with laser eye surgery. You can already see well the day after the operation; the final visual acuity is usually reached after about three weeks.

Both methods offer a rapid recovery, but SMILE^® PRO is often more comfortable during the postoperative period. In many cases, maximum visual acuity is reached after about three days — prolonged rest is usually not necessary, and pain or a foreign-body sensation is unlikely.

With both methods, however, it is essential to follow the ophthalmologist’s instructions — for example, any prescribed eye-drop schedule — and attend follow-up examinations.

Advantages and disadvantages of Femto-LASIK and SMILE^® PRO

Below is an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of Femto-LASIK and SMILE^® PRO:

Femto-LASIK or SMILE^® PRO: Which method is best in which situations?

Femto-LASIK or SMILE^® PRO– so which should you choose? Femto-LASIK can be used as a laser treatment for short-sightedness as well as to treat long-sightedness and astigmatism. However, this well-established procedure requires a bit more rest during the recovery period. In addition, it cannot be used if the cornea is too thin.

SMILE^® PRO is particularly suitable for patients with high myopia of up to −10 diopters and astigmatism up to 5 diopters — including those with thin corneas. This method allows a quick return to normal activities and reduces the risk of dry eye and other complications. However, the cost of laser eye surgery using this method is typically slightly higher.

At Bányai Neue Augen in Stuttgart and Karlsruhe, we’ll work with you to find the treatment method that’s optimal for you. If you’re unsure whether you’re a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery, simply use our online laser eye suitability test or arrange a consultation to have all your questions answered.

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