Laser Eye Surgery Sydney – SMILE, LASIK & PRK Explained
Laser eye surgery in Sydney includes advanced procedures such as SMILE, LASIK and PRK. These treatments are designed to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses by reshaping the cornea.
However, each procedure works in a different way. As a result, understanding these differences is essential when choosing the most appropriate option for your eyes and lifestyle.
At Eye & Laser Surgeons, Dr Daya Sharma provides personalised refractive surgery with a focus on visual quality, stability and long-term outcomes. In particular, this approach is important for patients with higher visual demands.
What is laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, works by reshaping the cornea so that light is focused more accurately onto the retina. As a result, vision becomes clearer and dependence on glasses or contact lenses may be reduced.
In addition, modern techniques allow highly precise and customised treatment based on the characteristics of each individual eye.
SMILE vs LASIK vs PRK
SMILE, LASIK and PRK are different laser vision correction techniques used to reshape the cornea and improve vision. Although the goal is similar, each procedure involves a different approach.
For example, SMILE is a flap-free technique that uses a small incision. In contrast, LASIK involves creating a thin flap before reshaping the underlying tissue. Meanwhile, PRK treats the surface of the cornea without creating a flap.
Therefore, the most suitable option depends on your eye structure, prescription and lifestyle.
SMILE, LASIK and PRK are different laser vision correction techniques used to reshape the cornea and improve vision. The most suitable option depends on your eyes and lifestyle.
| Feature | SMILE | LASIK | PRK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flap | No | Yes | No |
| Dry eye risk | Lower | Moderate | Moderate |
| Recovery | Moderate | Fast | Slower |
| Best for | Active lifestyles | Most patients | Thin corneas |
No single procedure is “best” for everyone. The most appropriate option depends on your eye structure, prescription and lifestyle.
Which Procedure Is Right For You?
Choosing the right procedure depends on several important factors. These include your prescription, corneal thickness and shape, tear film quality, and your lifestyle or visual demands.
In many cases, the goal is not simply achieving 6/6 vision on a chart. Instead, it is about achieving stable, consistent and high-quality vision in real-world environments.
This is particularly relevant for athletes, surgeons and other professionals who rely on precise visual performance.
Why Choose Dr Daya Sharma For Laser Eye Surgery?
Dr Daya Sharma is a corneal, cataract and refractive surgeon with fellowship training from Moorfields Eye Hospital in London.
His approach focuses on detailed, individualised assessment. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all model, the aim is to select the most appropriate procedure for each patient.
In addition, there is a strong emphasis on visual quality, not just visual acuity. This is particularly important for patients with demanding visual requirements.
Vision Screening in Elite Cricket
Dr Daya Sharma has been involved in vision screening for professional cricketers through work with Cricket NSW and Cricket Australia, assessing visual function in high-speed sporting environments.
Dr Daya Sharma and Dr Shanel Sharma have also contributed academically, co-authoring a chapter in Cricket Sports Medicine.
This work examines how the visual system functions beyond standard clinical testing, providing additional context when assessing patients for laser vision correction.
👉 Read more: https://mivision.com.au/2025/07/optimising-vision-for-cricketers-performance/
Who Is Suitable For Laser Eye Surgery?
You may be suitable if you:
- have stable vision
- are short-sighted, long-sighted or have astigmatism
- are seeking reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses
Who May Not Be Suitable?
Laser eye surgery may not be appropriate if you have:
- keratoconus or irregular corneal shape
- unstable prescription
A detailed assessment is required to determine suitability.
Risks of Laser Eye Surgery
All surgical procedures carry some risk. These may include:
- infection (rare)
- dry eye symptoms
- visual disturbances such as glare or halos
These risks are carefully discussed during consultation.
Recovery After Laser Eye Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the procedure:
- LASIK → rapid visual recovery (often within 24–48 hours)
- SMILE → slightly slower initial recovery
- PRK → longer recovery period over several days to weeks
Cost of Laser Eye Surgery in Sydney
The cost of laser eye surgery varies depending on the procedure and individual factors.
A consultation is required to determine suitability and provide an accurate treatment plan.
Life after laser vision correction. Many patients find they can enjoy everyday moments—like travel and time with loved ones—without relying on glasses or contact lenses.
FAQ
Is laser eye surgery safe?
Laser eye surgery is generally safe when performed in appropriately selected patients, following a detailed assessment.
Is SMILE better than LASIK?
SMILE and LASIK are different procedures with different advantages. The best option depends on your eyes and lifestyle.
How long does laser eye surgery last?
The effects are long-lasting, although natural changes in the eye can still occur over time.
Will I still need glasses?
Some patients may still require glasses for certain tasks, particularly reading as they get older.
How long is recovery?
Recovery depends on the procedure, with LASIK typically being the fastest and PRK the longest.
Book a Laser Eye Surgery Consultation
If you are considering laser eye surgery in Sydney, a personalised assessment is the first step.
Book a consultation
Or complete a suitability assessment online
