What Is the Difference Between LASIK and Zeiss SMILE?

Different Types of Laser Eye Surgery in Atlanta

At Atlanta Vision Institute, we see thousands of patients each year and assess their eligibility for a variety of life-changing procedures. Two of our most popular refractive surgeries are LASIK and Zeiss SMILE, and often, patients want to know how they’re different and which one fits them the best.

There are several factors that make Zeiss SMILE and LASIK different from each other, most notably that Zeiss SMILE doesn’t involve a flap being cut in the cornea and LASIK does. Here are a few ways that these two surgeries differ from each other, and how to understand which vision correction procedure is right for you:

The Differences Between Zeiss SMILE and LASIK: Which is Right for Me?

LASIK and Zeiss SMILE are both excellent options to explore when considering laser eye surgery. Working with a surgeon who is experienced in both procedures is a great way to ensure that you’re getting the most advanced, effective care.

The surgical team you choose to trust will look at your medical history, current eye health, overall health, and lifestyle to determine which surgery can provide the visual outcomes you desire.

LASIK in Atlanta

LASIK eye surgery is the most common type of laser vision correction and is one of the safest procedures performed today. During LASIK, your surgeon uses a laser to create a small flap in the cornea and then gently reshapes the cornea. The surgery itself takes roughly 15 minutes, and you may start to experience results in as little as 24 hours.

Who Qualifies for LASIK?

LASIK surgery is a great option if you suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism and want to enjoy clear vision without relying on glasses or contacts. To qualify for LASIK, you should be at least 18 years old, have a stable prescription, and be in good overall health.

To find out if you’re a good candidate for LASIK, take our vision quiz today.

Zeiss SMILE Eye Surgery in Atlanta

During Zeiss SMILE LASIK, the newest variation of LASIK refractive surgery, your surgeon will use a laser to gently reshape your cornea and correct your vision without creating a flap. This procedure has been successfully performed on over 1 million eyes all over the world. Zeiss SMILE laser eye surgery has quick recovery time and can give the same visual outcomes as LASIK.

We are the first laser eye center in the greater-Atlanta area to offer Zeiss SMILE eye surgery, so you can be certain you’re in the most qualified hands.

Qualifications for Zeiss SMILE Corrective Surgery

Currently, Zeiss SMILE LASIK can only correct certain degrees of nearsightedness. In order to qualify for Zeiss SMILE eye surgery, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a stable vision prescription, and should be in good overall health.

Benefits of Zeiss SMILE LASIK

Zeiss SMILE LASIK is a great option if you:

• are highly active
• work a hazardous job
• need a fast recovery
• have dry or irritated eyes
• are worried about post-op pain

Zeiss SMILE is a less invasive surgery and twice as fast as LASIK, while also giving you quicker results and shorter recovery time. Because your surgeon doesn’t create a corneal flap during Zeiss SMILE, there is a lower chance of complications post-surgery. The way Zeiss SMILE corrective surgery is performed also means that you’ll have a lower risk of developing long-term dry eye, which can be a potential risk from LASIK.

Is Zeiss SMILE LASIK Safe?

Yes, Zeiss SMILE corrective surgery is safe and virtually painless. If you’re concerned about the potential risks involved with any laser eye surgery, have your surgeon address your concerns during your consultation.

How Much Does Zeiss SMILE Eye Surgery Cost?

The cost of Zeiss SMILE LASIK depends on the specifics of your procedure, who performs your surgery, and your insurance coverage. At Atlanta Vision Institute, we know how much Zeiss SMILE can benefit our patients, and we will deliver you the most premium experience possible.

To look at our insurance and financing options, check out our LASIK Costs & Financing information.

How Much is LASIK?

The cost of your LASIK procedure depends on a variety of factors and can vary at different laser eye surgery centers, but at Atlanta Vision Institute, our basic LASIK procedure starts at $999.00/eye. To learn more about the specific cost of your surgery, request pricing information for any of our laser eye procedures.

Choosing a Surgeon for LASIK or Zeiss SMILE

One of the most important factors when it comes to laser eye surgery is the ability to trust your eyes to experienced professionals in the industry.

At Atlanta Vision Institute, we are committed to providing the most high-quality procedures with the most advanced technology. We are led by Dr. Farooq Ashraf, M.D., a leader in the field of refractive surgery. Our team will take a customized approach to your treatments, ensuring you receive the most effective and thorough care possible.

At Atlanta Vision Institute, we believe in always putting our patients first. Call us today to learn how you can benefit from Zeiss SMILE or LASIK.