Vision Correction Comparision Chart

LASIK vs SMILE

Key Differences

Both LASIK and SMILE use laser technology to reshape the cornea and correct vision, but their techniques differ in meaningful ways. LASIK involves creating a corneal flap using two lasers—a femtosecond and an excimer laser. SMILE, on the other hand, uses a single femtosecond laser to make a small incision and remove a lenticule from the cornea without creating a flap.

This makes SMILE less invasive and better at preserving the corneal structure. It’s also gentler on the corneal nerves, which helps reduce the risk of dry eye. However, LASIK treats a wider range of prescriptions, including hyperopia, which SMILE cannot correct. LASIK also delivers quicker visual recovery, typically within one or two days. SMILE may take several days to weeks for vision to fully stabilize.

Which is right for you?

At Brinton Vision, we offer both LASIK and SMILE because each has unique benefits. LASIK is a great choice if you want fast results, have hyperopia or significant astigmatism, and are comfortable with the idea of a flap.

SMILE may be better if you are nearsighted with mild astigmatism, have thin corneas, suffer from dry eyes, or lead an active lifestyle where avoiding a flap is ideal. Both deliver excellent outcomes, but a comprehensive Brinton Vision Ocular Analysis will help us determine what’s best for your unique eyes and lifestyle.

LASIK vs EVO ICL

Key Differences

While LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct vision, EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) works by placing a removable lens inside the eye. LASIK is a permanent change to the cornea; EVO ICL is reversible.

LASIK is generally recommended for people with moderate prescriptions and thick, healthy corneas. EVO ICL is especially beneficial for those with high myopia, dry eyes, or thinner corneas that may not qualify for LASIK. It minimizes the risk of dry eye, but comes with rare intraocular surgical risks.

Which is right for you?

Choose LASIK at Brinton Vision if you’re in your 20s to 40s, have a moderate prescription, and are looking for a fast, time-tested solution. EVO ICL may be a better fit if you’re 21 to 45 years old, have severe nearsightedness or corneal limitations, and want a reversible solution with exceptional night vision. We offer both options and can help guide you based on your ocular health and vision goals.

LASIK vs Custom Lens Replacement (Refractive Lens Exchange)

Key Differences

LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors. Custom Lens Replacement (CLR), also known as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), replaces the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

LASIK is a surface-level procedure and ideal for younger patients focused on distance vision. CLR is more appropriate for patients over 40 who are developing presbyopia or want to prevent cataracts. Unlike LASIK, CLR can correct both near and distance vision, and it prevents future cataract development.

Which is right for you?

LASIK may be the best choice if you’re younger, have a stable prescription, and want to address distance vision with minimal downtime. If you’re over 40 and dealing with both distance and reading vision issues or beginning signs of cataracts, CLR might be the ideal long-term solution. At Brinton Vision, we guide you through this decision with advanced diagnostics and personalized recommendations.

LASIK vs PRK

Key Differences

LASIK involves creating a corneal flap, whereas PRK removes the outer layer of the cornea without creating a flap. This makes PRK a good option for patients with thinner corneas or those who are at higher risk for eye trauma.

LASIK offers a faster recovery time—typically one to two days—and minimal discomfort. PRK involves more initial discomfort and a longer recovery, sometimes taking weeks to months to fully stabilize.

Which is right for you?

Choose LASIK if you want quick results and have sufficient corneal thickness. PRK may be better suited if you have a thin cornea, are highly active (such as in contact sports), or prefer avoiding flap-related complications. Both provide similar long-term results, and Brinton Vision offers both so you can choose with confidence.

LASIK vs Regular Glasses

Key Differences

LASIK is a one-time procedure designed to permanently correct your vision, while glasses are an external solution that must be worn and maintained daily. Over time, the cost of glasses, exams, lenses, and replacements can add up to thousands of dollars.

LASIK eliminates the need for daily eyewear and all the inconvenience that comes with it—fogged lenses, broken frames, or limitations during physical activity. Glasses offer flexibility for changing prescriptions but lack the freedom that LASIK provides.

Which is right for you?

LASIK is ideal if you’re in your 20s or 30s with a stable prescription and are ready to break free from the limitations of glasses. Glasses are best if you’re risk-averse, have a fluctuating prescription, or simply enjoy the aesthetic of eyewear. At Brinton Vision, we help patients weigh the long-term benefits of LASIK against the recurring costs and limitations of glasses.

Custom Lens Replacement vs Progressive Lens Glasses

Key Differences

Custom Lens Replacement is a permanent, internal solution to presbyopia and cataracts. Progressive glasses provide an external fix, allowing seamless focus across multiple distances but without addressing underlying lens issues.

CLR eliminates the need for cataract surgery in the future and can be more cost-effective over time. Progressive glasses cost less upfront but require ongoing adjustments and replacements.

Which is right for you?

CLR is ideal for patients over 40 who want a permanent solution to both near and distance vision issues and want to avoid future cataract surgery. Progressive glasses are a smart choice if you prefer a non-surgical option or your prescription is still changing. Brinton Vision offers CLR using state-of-the-art technology to give you a glasses-free future.

Monovision LASIK, PRK, SMILE, EVO ICL, CLR vs Progressive Glasses

Key Differences

Monovision involves correcting one eye for distance and the other for near vision. It can be performed with LASIK, PRK, SMILE, EVO ICL, or CLR. Progressive lenses, by contrast, provide multifocal vision in both eyes without surgery.

Monovision surgeries offer freedom from glasses but require brain adaptation. Progressive lenses offer instant multifocal correction with a short adaptation period, though they can be less convenient for active lifestyles.

Which is right for you?

Monovision LASIK is a great fit for patients aged 40+ with stable distance prescriptions and thick corneas. PRK works for those with thinner corneas or athletic lifestyles. SMILE is excellent for myopic patients who want to minimize dry eye risk. CLR is ideal for those over 40 wanting a permanent, cataract-proof solution. Progressive lenses are best for patients who prefer a non-surgical, flexible solution.

Before committing to monovision surgery, we often recommend trying it with contact lenses to ensure your brain can adapt. At Brinton Vision, we offer this trial along with our comprehensive Ocular Analysis to ensure your comfort and long-term satisfaction.

The Brinton Vision Difference

At Brinton Vision, we believe that there are too many incredible things in life to see and experience to let glasses or contacts get in your way. That’s why we specialize in all seven modern vision correction procedures, not just LASIK. We believe in providing personalized care, advanced diagnostics, and world-class outcomes to help you achieve what we call visual freedom.

If you’re ready to explore your options, schedule your Brinton Vision Ocular Analysis today. Let us help you live every moment—in the moment—with the clearest possible vision.