Overview
LASIK (Laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) and SMILE eye surgeries are the two advanced technologies in the field of eye surgery. These techniques are used to treat various medical conditions related to the eyes. LASIK surgery is one of the popular laser-guided technology used to reshape the cornea. This surgery generally works for all types of refractive errors. In contrast, SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) is an advanced version with minimum side effects and complications. SMILE is a less invasive procedure as compared to LASIK. They need almost similar recovery time after the completion of the procedure. Also, the cost of treatment for both procedures is in a similar range. Both the methods have some similarities and some differences.

What Are The Difference Between Smile And Lasik Surgery?
Some of the differences between these two surgical procedures are:-

LASIK eye surgery can manage almost all types of refractive errors (a condition in which the light fails to fall on the retina and, as a result, the image is not formed). SMILE is mainly employed to treat myopia either with or without astigmatism.
The risk of scars after the procedure is higher in LASIK than in SMILE.
Patients are more satisfied with the result of smile surgery
LASIK eye surgery cannot be done in a person whose cornea is thin, but SMILE eye surgery can be done in persons having thin cornea.
LASIK is an older technique, so several doctors are expertized in it. In contrast, SMILE is a newer method. That is why a limited number of surgeons are expertized in it.
In LASIK surgery, there is a requirement for a flap to be cut out. It is done so that the scissor can reach the deeper part of the eyes, whereas the SMILE uses a single laser known as femtosecond laser for reshaping the cornea.

What Are The Similarities Between Smile And Lasik Eye Surgery?
Some of the similarities between these two surgical procedures are:-

Both surgeries are performed by a qualified opthalmologist (eye surgeon).
The eligibility criteria of a person for both surgeries are also the same.
Both procedures are performed under the influence of local anaesthesia.
The rest time in both surgeries is of 1 day.
Many of the side effects in both surgeries are the same, like halos, blurry vision, and glares.
The post-operative care is also the same in both procedures.

Who Are The Best Patients To Undergo Smile Eye Surgery?
SMILE eye surgery can be done for patients with nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism or a combination of both. The best candidate for smile eye surgery is the one having these:-

A severe case of nearsightedness: The SMILE eye surgery can be used to treat patients having a myopic condition between 1.00D to 10.00D.
If a person has a higher tendency to dry eyes: Since SMILE is a minimally invasive procedure, it involves minimal invasion of the cornea. That is why the patients undergoing this surgery will experience a minor sensation of dry eyes.
The exposure time in SMILE surgery is less than LASIK, so it can be preferred by the person expecting less exposure time.

What Are The Benefits Related To Smile Eye Surgery?
Benefits of SMILE eye surgery.

SMILE surgery is the most advanced eye surgery available.
SMILE laser vision correction method is the least invasive method for treating vision problems.
It is safe to go through this surgery.
Patients that go through SMILE eye surgery feel very little to no pain.
There are significantly fewer side effects of SMILE surgery.

How To Choose Which Surgery Is Right For You?
You can choose the surgery as per the requirements of the eyes.
Always discuss with your surgeon about a better surgery option. The doctor may guide you by examining your medical history.
If you are far-sighted, then SMILE is not a good option.
If you have dry eyes or have a history of dry eyes, then SMILE is better. It is because the chances of dry eyes after LASIK surgery are higher.

Conclusion
Both SMILE and LASIK procedures are proven and patented procedures. They are used to treat different medical problems related to the eyes. Both the procedures are used to treat the refractive errors associated with the eyes. Both have some differences and some similarities. Also, the results of the two procedures are similar and long-lasting. You can choose any surgery depending on your comfort, but always take advice from your doctor before opting for the procedure.