Flap, lenticule or surface treatment
LASIK involves a flap followed by excimer-laser reshaping. SMILE creates and removes a small internal lenticule through a small incision. PRK removes the surface epithelium before excimer-laser treatment, without a flap.
These mechanical differences influence early healing, enhancement approaches and certain risks, but comprehensive screening remains essential for all three.
Dry eyes and contact sports are nuanced questions
Any refractive procedure can be followed by dryness or visual symptoms. The extent and duration vary. Likewise, activity recommendations depend on healing and risk of eye impact; no procedure makes the eye invulnerable.
Tell the surgeon about screen use, previous dry-eye treatment, cricket, martial arts, swimming and occupational eye hazards.
Prescription and corneal findings narrow the choice
Approved treatment ranges differ, and some prescriptions or corneal patterns are unsuitable for particular methods. PRK may involve slower early recovery; SMILE has different enhancement considerations; LASIK has flap-related risks.
The medically reviewed decision should explain why one option fits your eyes, not merely list every available technology.
| Feature | LASIK | SMILE | PRK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tissue approach | Flap then laser bed | Lenticule through small incision | Surface after epithelial removal |
| Early comfort | Often quicker, varies | Variable | Often more early discomfort |
| Flap present | Yes | No | No |
| Dry-eye discussion | Required | Required | Required |
| Availability at Sentra | Confirm during consultation | Not claimed on this site | Confirm during consultation |
Medical information & sources
This page provides general patient education and does not diagnose candidacy or replace an ophthalmologist’s examination. Clinical content requires final treating-doctor approval before launch.