SMILE was approved by Health Canada in 2015, compared to LASIK in 1994. Because of its newness, SMILE is typically marketed as the “next generation” laser eye surgery. However, newness does not necessarily mean improvement, and SMILE technology is currently in its early development.

The longevity of LASIK is a testament to its strong track record rather than an indication of outdatedness. LASIK has also undergone continuous improvements over time and is on its fifth generation of technology. There is a current ten-year trend of improving visual acuity and safety with LASIK. Even though SMILE is a newer procedure, LASIK has been continuously refined throughout its lifetime to offer the best vision possible.