Clinical Report: Evaluating Femtosecond Laser-Assisted LASIK in the Context of SMILE

Overview

This review discusses the evolving role of femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK (FS-LASIK) in the context of emerging refractive procedures like SMILE.

Background

Femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK has significantly advanced corneal refractive surgery, yet its relevance is challenged by newer techniques such as SMILE and transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy. Understanding the nuances of these procedures is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial results were provided in the source material.

Key Findings

• FS-LASIK remains relevant for patients with specific corneal and ocular surface phenotypes.
• Procedure choice should consider visual outcomes and patient preferences.
• FS-LASIK offers advantages in customized excimer ablation.
• Patient expectations have evolved to include concerns about night vision.
• Recent studies indicate no significant differences in efficacy or safety between FS-LASIK and SMILE.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should adopt a phenotype-centered approach when recommending refractive surgery options, considering individual patient characteristics and preferences. This framework can guide the selection of FS-LASIK, SMILE, or other procedures to optimize visual outcomes.

Conclusion

FS-LASIK continues to play a role in refractive surgery, particularly when tailored to the specific needs of patients.

Related Resources & Content

1. Corneal Physician, The Future of Corneal Refractive Surgery, 2021 -- Is it SMILE, LASIK, or both?
2. Corneal Physician, Bringing a SMILE to LASIK Patients, 2022 -- Follow these steps to perform this technique successfully
3. Ophthalmology Management, FS Laser: Not Ready For Prime Time, 2004 -- Looking at outcomes for evidence of a superior technology
4. ESCRS Recommendations for Refractive Surgery
5. The efficacy, safety and predictability in transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy versus LASIK/SMILE: A meta-analysis, 2026
6. Ophthalmology Management — Innovation: Latest Iteration Femtosecond Laser
7. ESCRS:European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) Recommendations for Refractive Surgery
8. The efficacy, safety and predictability in transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy versus LASIK/SMILE: A meta-analysis - Alexandra Serfözö, Yaser Abu Dail, Cristian Munteanu, Zamira Hoxha, Berthold Seitz, Loay Daas, 2026
9. Corneal stability comparison between prophylactic cross-linking with laser refractive surgery technique versus laser refractive surgery technique alone for myopia: a meta-analysis | Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology | Springer Nature Link