If you’ve been researching types of laser eye surgery to correct your vision, you’re already on the right track. With so many advanced treatments available today—from LASIK to SMILE to Contoura Vision—it can feel overwhelming to decide which option is ideal for you. Whether you want freedom from glasses, someone you know is exploring refractive surgery, or they have been recommended a specialized technique, understanding each method clearly helps you make a confident decision. This comprehensive 2025 guide explains 10 different types of laser eye surgery, how they work, who they’re suitable for, and the advantages and disadvantages of each. By the end, you’ll know exactly which procedure aligns best with your eye condition, lifestyle, and long-term vision goals. Understanding Laser Eye Surgery: A Quick Overview Laser eye surgery refers to advanced medical procedures that reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. The cornea’s shape determines how light bends into your eye, so modifying it improves clarity without needing glasses. The biggest advantage?Modern technologies allow ultra-precise corrections, faster recovery, and minimal discomfort. Before choosing from various types of laser eye surgery, your surgeon will examine: With this information, the surgeon recommends the option that delivers the safest and best visual outcome for you. 1. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) LASIK is the world’s most popular refractive eye surgery. When people talk about laser vision correction, LASIK is usually the first option that comes to mind. How LASIK Works A femtosecond laser creates a thin corneal flap. Then, an excimer laser reshapes the underlying cornea to correct refractive errors. The flap is repositioned and heals naturally. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages LASIK remains the go-to choice for millions because of its proven track record and fast recovery. 2. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) PRK is one of the earliest types of laser eye surgery, still widely used for patients who don’t qualify for LASIK due to thin or irregular corneas. How PRK Works Instead of creating a flap, the surgeon removes the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium), reshapes the cornea using an excimer laser, and places a bandage lens for healing. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages If you want excellent results but aren’t eligible for LASIK, PRK is a strong option. 3. SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) SMILE is one of the most advanced and minimally invasive refractive surgeries available today. How SMILE Works A femtosecond laser creates a small, disc-shaped tissue inside the cornea (lenticule). The surgeon removes this through a tiny incision, reshaping the cornea internally. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages SMILE is often recommended for individuals who want a safer alternative with less post-surgery dryness. 4. Contoura Vision LASIK (Topography-Guided LASIK) Contoura Vision is an advanced version of LASIK that uses eye-mapping technology to customize treatment precisely to your corneal topography. How It Works An ultra-detailed 3D map scans up to 22,000 points on your cornea. The laser corrects irregularities based on these measurements. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages Many patients report better-than-20/20 vision with Contoura Vision. 5. Epi-LASIK (Epithelial Laser In Situ Keratomileusis) A variation of PRK, Epi-LASIK removes the epithelial layer using an epithelial separator instead of alcohol or a blade. How It Works The epithelial layer is separated and lifted, the cornea is reshaped, and the epithelium regenerates naturally. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages Epi-LASIK is a safer option for individuals with delicate corneal structures. 6. LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) LASEK combines features of both PRK and LASIK. How LASEK Works A diluted alcohol solution loosens the epithelial layer, which is lifted as a thin flap. After laser reshaping, the flap is repositioned. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages It remains a preferred option for patients requiring a no-flap surgery with a more conservative approach. 7. Wavefront-Guided LASIK Wavefront technology customizes your LASIK procedure based on how light travels through your eye. How It Works A special device measures optical imperfections called higher-order aberrations (HOAs). The laser adjusts the cornea to reduce these irregularities. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages This is excellent for people who need superior night-driving clarity or work in low-light conditions. 8. Wavefront-Optimized LASIK Instead of measuring HOAs, this method preserves the natural shape of the cornea to avoid distortions. How It Works The laser works to maintain the prolate shape of the cornea, reducing spherical aberrations. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages Wavefront-optimized LASIK remains one of the safest and most commonly used approaches worldwide. 9. ReLEx SMILE PRO (latest SMILE upgrade) This is the newest innovation in small-incision laser surgery, offering faster healing and greater precision. How It Works A next-gen femtosecond laser removes the lenticule even more gently and accurately than standard SMILE. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages If you want cutting-edge laser eye surgery, SMILE PRO is among the best 2025 options. 10. PRESBYOND Laser Blended Vision (for 40+ age group) Unlike traditional types of laser eye surgery that correct distance vision, PRESBYOND focuses on both distance and near vision. How It Works The laser blends your depth of focus, creating a customized solution for presbyopia. Ideal For Advantages Disadvantages This is one of the best modern alternatives to monovision LASIK for age-related vision loss. How to Choose the Right Type of Laser Eye Surgery Choosing the ideal procedure depends on your individual eye health, lifestyle, and long-term vision goals. Here’s how you can narrow it down: 1. Corneal Thickness 2. Lifestyle 3. Dry Eyes 4. Age 5. Refractive Error 6. Eye Shape or Corneal Irregularities A detailed consultation with a refractive surgeon is essential for determining the safest option. Decision Factor Condition / Situation Recommended Laser Eye Surgery Types 1. Corneal Thickness Thick cornea LASIK, Contoura, Wavefront Thin cornea PRK, LASEK, Epi-LASIK 2. Lifestyle Athletes, military, high-impact activities SMILE, PRK Desk job, low-risk lifestyle LASIK, Contoura 3. Dry Eyes Severe dry eye SMILE Mild dryness Wavefront LASIK 4. Age Under 40 years LASIK, SMILE Above 40 years PRESBYOND 5. Refractive Error High myopia SMILE PRO, LASIK Astigmatism Contoura Vision, Wavefront 6. Eye Shape / Corneal Irregularity Irregular cornea Contoura Vision Higher-order
