SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) differs from LASIK in which of the following key aspects?
- A SMILE uses an excimer laser to ablate the stromal bed; LASIK uses a femtosecond laser
- B SMILE creates a stromal lenticule with a femtosecond laser extracted through a small incision without creating a flap; LASIK requires a flap ✓
- C SMILE cannot correct astigmatism; LASIK can
- D SMILE has worse corneal biomechanical stability than LASIK
Correct answer: B. SMILE creates a stromal lenticule with a femtosecond laser extracted through a small incision without creating a flap; LASIK requires a flap
Explanation
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) uses a femtosecond laser to create a refractive lenticule within the stroma and extract it through a 2–4 mm arc incision, eliminating the need for a corneal flap. LASIK creates a flap with microkeratome or femtosecond laser, then ablates the stromal bed with an excimer laser. SMILE preserves more anterior corneal stroma, anterior corneal nerves, and reportedly better biomechanical stability. SMILE can now correct astigmatism and myopia.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.