There are three main types of laser eye surgery: LASIK, PRK and SMILE.
LASIK is the most common type of laser eye surgery. It involves creating a small flap on the surface of the eye, which is lifted up to expose the underlying surface. This area is then lasered to change the curvature. The eye flap is then replaced and moulds to the eye’s new shape, instantly changing your vision.
PRK is a surface-based laser treatment that lasers the surface of the eye directly into the new shape. Unfortunately, this surgery takes a little longer to heal and the results are more variable.
The final type of laser eye surgery is called SMILE. This involves cutting the corneal tissue under the eye’s surface. A small section of tissue is then manually removed. This moulds the surface of the eye to the desired new shape. SMILE heals in a similar way to LASIK.
The choice of which type of laser eye surgery to have is typically made by your surgeon. The choice is based on the characteristics of your eye and your refractive error. LASIK is the best option for most refractive errors and a full range of long-sightedness, myopia and astigmatism. PRK is mainly used for low levels of refractive error or if you have other problems such as thin corneas. SMILE is only available for moderate or severe short-sightedness. It’s not recommended for other eye conditions as the results can be varied.