LASIK, PRK, and LALEX (SMILE) – What’s the Difference?

Considering laser vision correction but unsure which procedure is right for you? At LASERSIGHT, we offer three advanced techniques: LASIK, PRK, and LALEX (also known as SMILE). Each option is designed to reduce dependence on glasses and contact lenses, offering long-term visual freedom. Here’s how they compare:

LASIK – The Most Well-Known Laser Vision Correction Procedure

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is one of the most popular laser eye surgery techniques. It’s a two-step procedure using advanced 3D mapping technology for precise vision correction.

How LASIK Works:

1. A femtosecond laser creates a thin corneal flap, which is gently lifted.
2. An excimer laser reshapes the cornea by removing microscopic amounts of tissue to correct your prescription.
3. The flap is repositioned, where it naturally adheres without stitches.

Who is LASIK for?

• Ideal for mild to moderate myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), and astigmatism.
• Offers rapid recovery, with most patients resuming daily activities within 24–48 hours.
• A great option for active lifestyles due to its quick healing time.

PRK (TransPRK) – No Flap, Surface-Based Laser Correction

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), also called TransPRK, is a flap-free laser procedure that reshapes the cornea without creating a corneal flap. Instead, the epithelium (the outermost layer of the cornea) is gently removed using the excimer laser, which then reshapes the cornea for vision correction.

How PRK Works:

1. The excimer laser removes the epithelium and reshapes the cornea.
2. A protective bandage contact lens is placed to aid healing.
3. The epithelium regenerates naturally over a few days.

Who is PRK for?

• Ideal for patients with thinner corneas or those unsuitable for LASIK.
• Great for athletes, military personnel, and contact sports players, as there’s no risk of flap complications.
• Longer recovery time (5–7 days) compared to LASIK, but results are just as effective.

LALEX (SMILE & ATOS) – Minimally Invasive Keyhole Laser Surgery

LALEX (Lenticule-Assisted Lenticule Extraction) is an advanced, minimally invasive alternative to LASIK and PRK. This method includes SMILE (by Zeiss) and ATOS (by Schwind), both using a femtosecond laser to remove a thin disc (lenticule) from the cornea through a small keyhole incision.

How LALEX Works:

1. A femtosecond laser creates a precise lenticule inside the cornea.
2. A small 3mm incision allows for the removal of the lenticule.
3. The cornea reshapes naturally without needing a flap or surface removal.

Who is LALEX for?

• Best for patients with myopia (short-sightedness) and astigmatism.
• Minimally invasive, with no flap creation and a quicker healing process than PRK.
• Ideal for active individuals who prefer a keyhole surgery approach.

Which Laser Eye Surgery is Right for You?

The best laser vision correction procedure depends on your prescription, corneal thickness, lifestyle, and individual eye health. At LASERSIGHT, we offer personalized assessments to determine which treatment suits you best.

All procedures take approximately 20 minutes and include a recovery plan with antibiotic drops, anti-inflammatory drops, and lubricants to support healing and long-term eye health.

Book a Free Assessment Today

Find out which procedure is right for you. Enter your postcode to locate your nearest LASERSIGHT clinic and book your free suitability assessment today.