What is the best eye laser method?
The decision for an eye laser method to correct vision defects depends on numerous factors. Whether PRK, LASEK, Femto-LASIK, SMILE® PRO or PRESBYOND® – each method has its own advantages and areas of application.
This article provides you with a comprehensive overview of the different eye laser procedures, how they work, healing processes and costs. With this information, you can make an informed decision together with your ophthalmologist as to which method best suits your individual needs and requirements.
The best eye laser method? A matter of opinion
In general, it is not possible to say which eye laser method is the best, as this depends greatly on the individual needs and the specific visual defects of the patient. Therefore, it is important to understand the different procedures and seek advice from qualified ophthalmologists in order to make the right decision.
Bányai Neue Augen offers a variety of eye laser options, including A-PRK, LASEK, Femto-LASIK, SMILE®PRO and PRESBYOND®. These methods differ in technology, healing time, and potential risks. For some patients, the minimally invasive SMILE®PRO may be the best choice, while others benefit from femto-LASIK.
A detailed consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist is an important step in order to be able to determine the best eye laser method for your requirements – also in the context of preliminary examinations. We offer a selection of the following approaches, which we will briefly introduce to you below.
PRK & LASEK – proven all-rounders
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) are proven methods for correcting visual defects such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Both procedures work without the creation of a corneal flap, which makes them particularly suitable for patients with thin corneas.
In A-PRK (a further development of classical PRK), the top layer of the cornea is removed with a special solution before the excimer laser forms the underlying tissue.
LASEK is similar to PRK, but the top layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is not removed, but is loosened and pushed aside before the laser processes the tissue.
Both methods require a longer healing time and may be associated with more discomfort in the first days after surgery. However, they are well suited for patients who are not eligible for LASIK or other flap-based procedures.
Femto-LASIK – a classic
Femto-LASIK is an advanced variant of the traditional LASIK method that offers high precision and fast healing. The procedure begins with the creation of a thin flap in the cornea using a femtosecond laser. This precise laser cuts the flap – a corneal lid – which is then folded back to form the underlying tissue with an excimer laser.
This method is excellent for correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Bányai Neue Augen uses femto-LASIK for nearsightedness up to -10 diopters, farsightedness up to +4 diopters and astigmatism up to 6 diopters.
The advantages of this method lie in the rapid visual recovery and the high precision of the procedure. However, there is a low risk of dry eyes and flap complications, which is why careful follow-up care is crucial.
SMILE® PRO – further development of ReLEx® SMILE
SMILE® PRO is an innovative advancement of ReLEx® smile technology and offers a minimally invasive option for correcting nearsightedness and astigmatism.
In this method, a femtosecond laser prepares a small lenticle inside the cornea, which is removed through a tiny incision in the cornea. This technique does not require a large flap, which preserves corneal stability and reduces the risk of complications such as dry eyes.
SMILE® PRO is particularly suitable for patients with high myopia up to -10 diopters and astigmatism up to 5 diopters. The healing time is short, and patients can quickly return to their normal activities.
At Bányai Neue Augen, this method is recommended as particularly gentle and effective, especially for patients with an active lifestyle.
PRESBYOND® – for clear vision at any age
PRESBYOND® is a specially developed method for the laser treatment of presbyopia. It offers a solution for patients who have difficulty seeing at close range due to reduced flexibility of their eye lens due to age.
In this technique, the dominant eye is adjusted for farsightedness, while the non-dominant eye is optimized for short and medium distances. Both eyes correct the mean distance here. After a short period of familiarization, the brain learns to process both visual impressions into a sharp image.
Vision defects and suitable eye laser methods
Different vision defects require different eye laser methods. Here you will find a table with common visual defects including the appropriate eye laser method, which we perform at Bányai Neue Augen.
| Visual impairment | Suitable laser eye surgeries |
| Short-sightedness | PRK, LASEK, Femto-LASIK, SMILE®PRO |
| Long-sightedness | PRK, LASEK, Femto-LASIK |
| Astigmatism | PRK, LASEK, Femto-LASIK, SMILE®PRO |
| Presbyopia | PRESBYOND® |
However, it should be noted that the choice of the best eye laser method depends not only on the type of visual defect, but also on individual factors such as the corneal condition. These are determined as part of a thorough preliminary examination, so that the right choice can then be made for you.
It is also important to know that not every eye can be lasered. Take our uncomplicated online laser eye aptitude test to find out whether laser eye surgery is suitable for you in principle.
Procedure and healing of various laser eye surgeries
The procedure and healing of different laser eye surgeries differ depending on the method. In PRK and LASEK, the top layer of the cornea is removed or pushed aside before the laser forms the underlying tissue. Healing takes a little longer, and there may be discomfort in the first few days after surgery.
Femto-LASIK begins with the creation of a flap in the cornea, followed by the shaping of the tissue with an excimer laser. The healing time is short, and most patients can already see well the next day, with final vision appearing in the first three weeks after surgery.
SMILE® PRO prepares a small lenticule inside the cornea, which is removed through a tiny incision. Healing is quick as no large flap is required.
PRESBYOND® follows a similar procedure to Femto-LASIK, so a similar healing process is to be expected. However, it takes some time to get used to the new visual impression (about 3 to 4 months). In addition, there may be a slightly blurred vision, a feeling of dry eyes and a slight discomfort immediately after the procedure.
At Bányai Neue Augen, each patient is informed in detail about the procedure and healing. In addition, we will explain how to behave after laser eye surgery to ensure a quick and safe recovery – for example, whether you can use your mobile phone after laser eye surgery, or how long you should take care of yourself.
Eye laser methods and their costs
The cost of laser eye surgery at Bányai Neue Augen varies depending on the procedure. PRK and LASEK tend to be more cost-effective, starting at around €990 per eye. Femto-LASIK is more expensive, with costs starting at around €2,200 per eye.
SMILE® PRO, due to its advanced technology, costs from around 2,900 euros per eye. PRESBYOND®, which has been specially developed to correct presbyopia, is priced at around €3,150 per eye.
These prices include preliminary examinations and follow-up care, but may vary depending on the individual case. At Bányai Neue Augen, the exact price is determined after a comprehensive examination and consultation, so that patients know exactly what costs they will face.
While statutory health insurance companies do not normally cover the costs of laser eye surgery, these can sometimes be (partially) reimbursed by a private health insurance company – contact your insurer in advance for more detailed information. To make laser eye surgery more affordable, we at Bányai Neue Augen also offer the option of a monthly installment payment – interest-free.
We will find the best eye laser method for your requirements
Choosing the best eye laser method depends on many individual factors, including the type of vision defect, the thickness of the cornea, and personal lifestyle habits. At Bányai Neue Augen in Stuttgart and Karlsruhe, we take the time to thoroughly examine each patient and suggest the most appropriate method.
Schedule a personal consultation to clarify all your questions and find the best treatment for your needs. Whether A-PRK, PRESBYOND®, Femto-LASIK or SMILE® PRO – at Bányai Neue Augen you get a tailor-made solution to improve your vision and improve your quality of life.
Read more about eye lasers:
- How much does laser eye surgery cost?
- Up to how many dioptres can be lasered?
- Can I use my mobile phone after laser eye surgery?
- The cost of laser eye surgery in Stuttgart
- Does the health insurance cover laser eye surgery?
- Does laser eye surgery have disadvantages?
- From what age onwards?
- The latest eye laser methods at a glance
FAQs
What is the difference between A-PRK and LASEK?
The main difference between A-PRK (Advanced Photorefractive Keratectomy) and LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) is in the treatment of the uppermost layer of the cornea. In A-PRK, the top layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed; in LASEK, on the other hand, the epithelium is loosened with an alcohol solution, pushed to the side and repositioned after laser treatment. Both methods are suitable for patients with thin corneas or those who are not eligible for other procedures such as LASIK.
What advantages does SMILE® PRO offer?
SMILE® PRO offers several advantages. It is a minimally invasive method that does not require the creation of a large corneal flap. This serves the structural integrity of the cornea and limits the risk of dry eyes is reduced. SMILE® Pro is particularly suitable for patients with high nearsightedness and astigmatism. The method also offers a fast healing time, few postoperative complaints and high precision in correcting vision defects.
How does Femto LASIK work?
Femto-LASIK is an advanced laser eye procedure used to correct visual defects such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. The procedure begins with the creation of a thin corneal flap using a femtosecond laser. This laser works extremely quickly and precisely, which protects the surrounding tissue. After the flap has been created and folded back, an excimer laser forms the underlying tissue to correct the defective vision. The flap is then folded back and adheres without seams.
All the information you need about laser eye surgery – delivered directly to your email inbox!
Follow us
