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Comparative Study
. 2022 Feb 1;85(2):145-151.
doi: 10.1097/JCMA.0000000000000674.

Comparison of clinical outcomes of LASIK, Trans-PRK, and SMILE for correction of myopia

Jin-Yu Chang  1 , Pei-Yu Lin  1   2 , Chih-Chien Hsu  1   2 , Catherine Jui-Ling Liu  1   2
Affiliations
Comparative Study

Comparison of clinical outcomes of LASIK, Trans-PRK, and SMILE for correction of myopia

Jin-Yu Chang et al. J Chin Med Assoc. .

Abstract

Transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (Trans-PRK), laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), and small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) are three mainstay refractive surgeries worldwide. The applicability, efficacy, safety, and predictability of these different techniques are quite similar. Trans-PRK has the strongest biostability, earliest return to normal corneal sensitivity but the longest recovery time, most uncomfortable postoperative experience, and possibility of corneal haze. LASIK possesses the fastest visual rehabilitation but the slowest corneal nerve reinnervation, and flap displacement is possibly lifelong. SMILE incurs no flap-related complications and has intermediate vision recovery time and biomechanics compared with Trans-PRK and LASIK. However, it lacks the cyclotorsion-compensation system, eye-tracking system, and customized treatment profile for high astigmatism or irregular corneal surface. This review aims to introduce the mechanisms, pros, and cons of these three types of refractive surgery. With full understanding, practitioners could advise patients on the most suitable treatment of choice.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interest: The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest related to the subject matter or materials discussed in this article.

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