Which laser method is right for me?

Among all laser techniques, we generally prefer the iLASIK method (intelligent or customized LASIK) whenever possible. iLASIK has some key advantages over ReLEx SMILE, conventional LASIK, and No Touch PRK techniques. However, there is no single method that is 100% ideal for everyone.

THE MOST IDEAL LASER METHOD WILL BE DETERMINED AFTER DETAILED EXAMINATIONS AND WILL BE THE ONE MOST SUITABLE FOR THE INDIVIDUAL!

Visual Acuity After Laser Surgery

In the iLASIK technique, not only is the refractive error corrected, but additional visual imperfections that negatively affect quality of vision can also be treated. Therefore, postoperative visual acuity can sometimes even exceed 100%. These visual imperfections are generally not addressed in other laser techniques.

Light Glare and Night Vision

Because iLASIK provides a completely personalized treatment, issues such as light glare and night vision problems are less common compared to other methods.

Flap Interface Issues

In iLASIK, the flap is created not with traditional mechanical blades (microkeratomes), but with a femtosecond laser, making it much thinner and smoother. As a result, interface issues are practically nonexistent. On the other hand, ReLEx SMILE and No Touch PRK techniques do not involve flap creation at all, so such issues are completely avoided. This problem is usually seen with conventional LASIK using a mechanical microkeratome.

Residual Tissue Inside the Eye

This is a serious potential complication unique to ReLEx SMILE. During the procedure, two wide incisions are made in the cornea, and a lenticule of tissue is removed. There is a risk that residual tissue may be left behind. This risk does not exist in iLASIK or No Touch PRK techniques.

Possibility of Reoperation

If a future enhancement surgery is needed, eyes that have undergone ReLEx SMILE may face limitations. ReLEx SMILE cannot be repeated in the same eye, and in such cases, a different technique must be used. This limitation does not apply to iLASIK or No Touch PRK.

Effective for All Types of Refractive Errors

The iLASIK technique can effectively treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. However, ReLEx SMILE cannot treat hyperopia or pure astigmatism. No Touch PRK also has certain limitations depending on the degree of refractive error.

Dry Eye After Surgery

Regardless of the technique used, some degree of dry eye may occur temporarily after surgery. In this regard, No Touch PRK, followed by ReLEx SMILE, are the most advantageous techniques. Although dry eye symptoms may be slightly more prominent in LASIK-based methods early on, they are usually not serious and can be managed by using lubricating eye drops more frequently. Severe pre-existing dry eye is a contraindication for laser surgery.

Trauma Risk

For individuals at high risk of eye trauma (e.g., combat sports athletes), No Touch PRK or ReLEx SMILE may be safer options because they do not involve flap creation. In serious eye injuries, a LASIK-created flap may shift or dislocate, requiring surgical repositioning. That said, regardless of the method, protecting our eyes from trauma is essential for long-term eye health.

Thin Corneas

Among all the methods, No Touch PRK weakens the cornea the least, as no incisions are made.
Therefore, it is the preferred option for patients with thin corneas. However, this technique also has its own limitations and criteria, which must be strictly followed. iLASIK and ReLEx SMILE, on the other hand, require a thicker corneal structure.

In conclusion, let us restate what we emphasized at the beginning:

No single method is superior in every aspect. Each technique has its strengths and limitations depending on the patient’s unique needs and eye structure. A good laser surgeon should evaluate each patient individually and recommend the most appropriate method with honesty and expertise.