SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) differs from LASIK in that it:

• A Uses an excimer laser for both flap creation and stromal ablation
• B Requires an anterior flap creation similar to LASIK before lenticule removal
• C Creates a stromal lenticule entirely within the cornea using a femtosecond laser, extracted through a small incision without a flap ✓
• D Is performed under topical anesthesia only in SMILE, while LASIK requires subtenon block

Explanation

SMILE uses a femtosecond laser to create two curved corneal interfaces (anterior and posterior) defining a disc-shaped stromal lenticule within the intact cornea. The lenticule is then manually extracted through a 2–4 mm small arc incision, reshaping the cornea without creating a large flap. This preserves more anterior corneal stroma, maintains better corneal biomechanics, and avoids the flap-related complications of LASIK (flap dislocation, striae). LASIK uses a microkeratome or femtosecond laser for flap creation and an excimer laser for ablation. Both procedures are performed under topical anesthesia.

Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.