Procedures
A flap-free alternative to LASIK: the laser works inside the cornea and the tissue is removed through an incision of about 3 mm. For myopia and astigmatism.
What it is
SMILE corrects nearsightedness and astigmatism without lifting a corneal flap. A femtosecond laser outlines a thin lens-shaped disc of tissue, called a lenticule, inside the cornea. The surgeon removes it through a small incision, and the cornea's new shape changes where light focuses.
Because no flap is made, flap-related complications do not apply, and a smaller area of the corneal surface is cut. In exchange, vision tends to sharpen more gradually over the first days than with LASIK, and the technique does not treat farsightedness. Which of the two suits you is a measurement question, answered at the evaluation.
In 24 seconds
Illustrative schematic, no sound. Only the surgeon decides candidacy, after a full in-clinic evaluation.
The same screening as LASIK: topography, corneal thickness, pupil size and a dilated exam. The choice between the two techniques is made here.
Drops only. You look at a fixation light while the laser works; there is pressure but not pain.
The laser shapes the lenticule inside the cornea in well under a minute. It is then separated and removed through an incision of about 3 mm, which seals on its own.
Dr. Serrano examines the eye himself the following day. Clearance to fly is given in writing at that visit, never before it.
Mild scratchiness and watery eyes. Rest with the eyes closed.
Mandatory in-person check. Vision is usable but often hazier than LASIK at the same point; this is expected.
Sharpness improves day by day. Drops on schedule; no rubbing, swimming or eye make-up.
Vision settles. Follow-up with your optometrist at home, Dr. Serrano by video if needed.
Every eye is different. Dr. Serrano goes through the risks that apply to yours at the evaluation, before you decide anything.
A summary to orient you. The evaluation decides, not the table.
| Feature | Lens exchange | LASIK | SMILE | Cataract surgery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treats | Presbyopia and high prescriptions | Myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism | Myopia, astigmatism | A clouded natural lens |
| Works on | The lens, replaced | Cornea, under a flap | Cornea, no flap | The lens, replaced |
| Typical age | About 45 and over | 18 to mid-40s | 18 to mid-40s | Usually 60 and over |
| Helps with reading vision | Depends on the lens chosen | No | No | Depends on the lens chosen |
| Cataract later in that eye | No | Still possible | Still possible | No |
| Typical stay in Cabo | Set by your plan | 3 to 4 nights | 3 to 4 nights | Set by your plan |
How it's done
What each technique does, who it's for and what to expect. Anything that doesn't fit here gets answered at your evaluation.
The laser shapes a small disc of tissue inside the cornea, which is removed through an incision of about 3 mm — no flap. Mainly for myopia and astigmatism.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on your prescription, your cornea and how you live. Dr. Serrano advises which suits you at the evaluation; neither is 'better' for everyone.
Vision usually clears more gradually than with LASIK over the first days. The next-day check is still mandatory.
Neither is better for everyone. Both reshape the cornea and have similar long-term results in suitable eyes. LASIK treats farsightedness and usually gives faster sharp vision; SMILE avoids a flap. Your corneal measurements, prescription and activities decide, which is why the choice is made at the evaluation rather than online.
Comfort is often good early on, but sharp vision typically takes a few days longer than with LASIK. Plan the same three to four nights in Cabo either way, because the next-day check applies to both.
A touch-up is possible, but it is normally done with a surface laser technique rather than a second SMILE. Dr. Serrano explains what that would involve before you decide.
People with farsightedness, keratoconus or irregular corneas, an unstable prescription, or who are pregnant or nursing. The two-minute check on this site screens for most of these before you book anything.
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