What is Better than LASIK Laser Eye Surgery?

If you’ve started looking into laser eye surgery to free yourself from glasses or contact lenses, chances are you’ve come across LASIK. It’s the most widely recognised name in the laser eye surgery world—and for good reason. LASIK has helped millions achieve clearer vision since it was first introduced.

But what if we told you that technology has evolved? That there’s now a more advanced, minimally invasive, and comfortable alternative to LASIK? At Insight Eye Clinic, we offer a next-generation procedure known as SMILE laser eye surgery, and for many patients, SMILE is better than LASIK.

Let’s dive into why.

First, a Quick Recap: What is LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of refractive eye surgery that reshapes the cornea using a laser. It works by creating a flap in the outer layer of the cornea, lifting it, and then using another laser to reshape the inner layers to correct vision. The flap is then repositioned to heal naturally.

LASIK is highly effective and has helped people with myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), and astigmatism enjoy clear, glasses-free vision. However, despite its success, it’s not without its limitations—and that’s where SMILE comes in.

So, What is SMILE?

SMILE stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. It’s the most advanced form of laser vision correction available today, and it’s also the most commonly performed laser eye procedure at Insight Eye Clinic.

Unlike LASIK, SMILE is flap-free. It uses a single laser (a femtosecond laser) to create a tiny disc-shaped piece of tissue (called a lenticule) inside the cornea. This lenticule is then removed through a small keyhole incision—just 2–4mm wide—allowing the cornea to reshape and correct your vision.

SMILE offers the same vision correction outcomes as LASIK, but with a host of added benefits.

Why SMILE is Better than LASIK

1. Flap-Free Means Less Disruption to the Eye

One of the biggest drawbacks of LASIK is the creation of the corneal flap. While it heals well in most cases, the flap can occasionally dislodge, especially in contact sports or if the eye is rubbed too soon after surgery.
With SMILE, there is no flap. The procedure is minimally invasive, which means fewer nerves are disrupted and the integrity of the cornea is better preserved. This makes SMILE particularly ideal for people with active lifestyles, athletes, or those who work in environments where eye safety is critical.

2. Faster Recovery and Less Discomfort

Because SMILE involves a much smaller incision and less disruption to the surface of the eye, patients often experience less dryness, faster recovery, and greater comfort in the hours and days following surgery compared to LASIK.

At Insight Eye Clinic, our patients commonly report that their vision is significantly clearer the very next day, and they can return to work or their normal activities much quicker.

3. Lower Risk of Dry Eye

Dry eye symptoms are a known side effect of LASIK, often due to the severing of corneal nerves during flap creation. These nerves help regulate tear production, and when disrupted, the eye can temporarily produce fewer tears.

SMILE surgery affects fewer nerves, meaning there’s a lower risk of dry eye syndrome—a major benefit for anyone who already struggles with dryness or wears contact lenses.

4. Greater Corneal Stability

Because SMILE leaves more of the corneal structure intact, the result is a stronger, more stable cornea. This can reduce the risk of long-term complications and allows a broader range of patients—including those with thinner corneas—to be suitable candidates for surgery.

This structural advantage is one of the reasons many surgeons, including Dr Graham Furness, choose SMILE as their preferred method of laser eye correction.

5. Equally Excellent Visual Results

SMILE delivers visual outcomes that are on par with LASIK, and in many cases, patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. It’s not just a safer or more comfortable procedure—it’s highly effective.

At Insight Eye Clinic, we’ve seen outstanding long-term results with SMILE, and our patients consistently express how amazed they are at how clearly they can see—often from the moment they wake up the next morning.

What Can SMILE Treat?

SMILE is most commonly used to correct short-sightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. While it’s not currently used for long-sightedness (hyperopia), most people who are suitable for LASIK are also suitable for SMILE.

That’s why a thorough assessment with one of our experienced team members is so important. During your consultation, we’ll perform advanced diagnostic testing to determine the best option for your eyes and your lifestyle.

Why Choose Insight Eye Clinic and Dr Graham Furness?

Choosing where and who performs your laser eye surgery is just as important as choosing the procedure itself.

At Insight Eye Clinic, Dr Graham Furness leads our surgical team. Dr Furness is an experienced refractive and cataract surgeon with a focus on precision, patient care, and delivering life-changing results. He’s one of the few surgeons in Perth with extensive experience in SMILE, LASIK, PRK, RLE, and ICL procedures, meaning you’ll always be recommended the option that best suits you—not just the one that’s available.

We pride ourselves on providing:

• Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care

• The latest in laser technology

• Honest advice and realistic expectations

• A warm, friendly, and personalised experience

Our goal is to help you achieve freedom from glasses or contacts—with comfort, confidence, and clarity.

Is SMILE Right for You?

If you’re considering laser eye surgery, and you’ve heard about LASIK, it’s worth exploring SMILE as a more modern, less invasive alternative. SMILE may offer you a smoother recovery, fewer side effects, and equally brilliant visual outcomes.

And the best part? At Insight Eye Clinic, your journey starts with a no-pressure, comprehensive consultation. We’ll walk you through your options, answer all your questions, and make sure you feel confident in every step.

Ready to Ditch the Glasses?

Discover the difference SMILE can make. Book your consultation with Dr Graham Furness and the Insight Eye Clinic team today.

Visit www.insighteye.com.au or call us to take your first step toward life-changing vision.

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Clearer. Simpler. SMILE.