Why is Contoura LASIK better than SMILE？

When considering vision correction procedures, it’s crucial to understand the distinctions between Contoura LASIK and SMILE to make an informed decision. This article delves into the advantages of Contoura LASIK over SMILE, supported by specific data from reputable sources.

Understanding Contoura LASIK and SMILE

Contoura LASIK

Contoura LASIK is an advanced form of LASIK surgery that employs two lasers:

• Femtosecond Laser: Creates a hinged corneal flap, allowing access to the underlying corneal tissue.
• Excimer Laser with Contoura Vision: Reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors and refines the corneal surface for enhanced visual clarity.

This dual-laser approach enables rapid visual recovery, often within a day, and has the potential to achieve vision superior to that attainable with glasses.

SMILE

SMILE is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a femtosecond laser to create a small incision and remove a lenticule of corneal tissue, thereby reshaping the cornea to correct myopia.

Comparing Contoura LASIK and SMILE

2. Higher Success Rates for 20/20 Vision
Studies demonstrate notable differences in the likelihood of achieving 20/20 vision:

• Contoura LASIK: Approximately 98% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after undergoing Contoura LASIK.
• SMILE: The success rate for 20/20 vision with SMILE ranges from 60–85%, as reported in multiple clinical studies.

The significantly higher success rate of Contoura LASIK reflects the enhanced precision and effectiveness of the procedure.

3. Faster Recovery

• Recovery times differ between the two procedures:
• Contoura LASIK: Patients often experience rapid visual recovery, typically within a day.
• SMILE: Visual recovery can take longer, with stabilization occurring over several days.

 
4. Wider and More Customized Treatment Range

• The scope of treatable conditions varies:
• Contoura LASIK: Approved for the treatment of myopia and astigmatism, offering a broader treatment range. It can correct up to 6 diopters of astigmatism and treat conditions like hyperopia and mixed astigmatism.
• SMILE: Primarily approved for the treatment of myopia with limited capability to correct astigmatism (up to 0.5 diopters) and is not suitable for hyperopia or mixed astigmatism.

 
5. Long Lasting Results

• Contoura LASIK: Enhancements are rare, with less than 2% of patients requiring additional treatment.
• SMILE: Some studies suggest that up to 40% of SMILE patients require enhancements, often involving more invasive and prolonged recovery procedures like PRK.

Why We Recommend Contoura LASIK

At Dr. Raymond Fong Eye Care, we prioritize providing the most advanced and effective treatments. After evaluating both procedures, we find that Contoura LASIK offers superior precision, faster recovery, and broader treatment capabilities. With a success rate of 98% for achieving 20/20 vision or better, coupled with the ability to address higher-order corneal aberrations, Contoura LASIK stands out as the better choice.

When it comes to your vision, there should be no compromise. Contoura LASIK delivers the precision, safety, and outcomes you deserve.
 

References:
¹ FDA Guidance for Laser Vision Correction Devices, available via FDA.gov.
² Mann II, P. M., & Potvin, R. (2022). Comparison of refractive and visual acuity results after Contoura Vision topography-guided LASIK planned with the Phorcides Analytic Engine to results after wavefront-optimized LASIK in eyes with oblique astigmatism. PLOS ONE.
³ Zeiss ReLEx SMILE Study Findings*, Carl Zeiss Meditec Reports.
⁴ Alcon WaveLight® EX500 Data Sheet: Topography-Guided LASIK Technology.

Note: Individual results may vary. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist to determine the most suitable procedure for your specific needs.