ReLEx SMILE in Thailand is often considered safer than LASIK because it is a flapless, minimally invasive procedure. It uses a precise femtosecond laser to create a small keyhole incision. This avoids the 20mm corneal flap required for LASIK, reducing flap complications and chronic dry eye.
- Flapless technique: Eliminates risks of flap displacement, striae, or epithelial ingrowth seen in LASIK.
- Corneal stability: Preserves the upper corneal layers, maintaining better structural integrity of the eye.
- Nerve preservation: Damages fewer corneal nerves than LASIK, leading to lower post-operative dry eye.
- Small incision: Uses a 2–4mm incision compared to the 20mm circular cut in LASIK.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While patients often focus on the technique, Thai data shows surgeon volume is the true safety differentiator. Pioneers like Dr. EkkTet Chansue at TRSC International Eye and Vision Center first performed ReLEx in Thailand. Selecting specialists with 1,000+ procedures, common in high-volume Bangkok centres, reduces the risk of tissue extraction errors.
Patient Consensus: Patients find the lack of a flap makes recovery in Thailand feel much less stressful. They recommend confirming video follow-up options for peace of mind after returning to Australia.