When people begin researching laser eye surgery, they often want to know which procedure is considered the best. The truth is that there is no single procedure that is right for everyone.
Every patient has different eyes, vision needs, health considerations, and expectations. That is why choosing the right procedure begins with a thorough assessment, not simply selecting the newest or most familiar option.
At BoydVision, we offer several vision correction procedures and use advanced diagnostic and surgical technology to help determine the most appropriate option for each patient.
It Starts With a Detailed Consultation
Before recommending a procedure, the BoydVision team takes the time to understand each patient’s vision and overall eye health. Detailed measurements and diagnostic testing help us evaluate factors such as:
- The patient’s current prescription
- Corneal shape and thickness
- Overall eye health
- Age and vision changes
- History of dry eyes or other concerns
- Lifestyle, occupation, and daily activities
- Expectations for the procedure and recovery
These details matter because a procedure that is well suited to one patient may not be the safest or most effective choice for another.
Dr. Michael Boyd is closely involved throughout the patient’s care, from the initial consultation through the final postoperative visit. Having performed more than 25,000 laser vision correction and cataract procedures, he combines the information provided by advanced technology with decades of surgical experience.
Considering More Than One Surgical Option
Some clinics focus primarily on one type of laser eye surgery. BoydVision offers multiple surgical solutions, allowing us to recommend a procedure based on the patient rather than fitting every patient into the same treatment plan.
Depending on the assessment, options may include SmartSight (aka SMILE), SmartSurface PRK, LASIK, Blended Vision, Refractive Lens Exchange, or cataract surgery.
SmartSight
SmartSight is a newer, next-generation laser vision correction procedure that is similar to SMILE. It uses the SCHWIND ATOS laser to create and remove a small piece of tissue from within the cornea through a small incision.
This minimally invasive approach may be appropriate for certain patients seeking vision correction without the creation of a traditional corneal flap. However, candidacy depends on several clinical factors, including the patient’s prescription and corneal characteristics.
SmartSurface PRK
SmartSurface PRK is a no-touch surface treatment performed using the SCHWIND AMARIS laser. Unlike LASIK, PRK does not require the creation of a corneal flap.
It may be recommended for patients with certain corneal characteristics or for those whose work, sports, or lifestyle make a flap-free procedure preferable. Recovery is generally more gradual than with some other procedures, which is another factor discussed during the consultation.
LASIK
LASIK remains a well-established vision correction option for many suitable patients. During the procedure, a thin corneal flap is created before the underlying tissue is reshaped.
Many patients appreciate the relatively quick visual recovery associated with LASIK. However, corneal thickness, eye health, lifestyle, and other individual factors must be carefully assessed before it is recommended.
Lens-Based Procedures
Laser vision correction is not always the best answer, particularly when age-related changes to the eye’s natural lens are contributing to vision problems.
Blended Vision, Refractive Lens Exchange, or cataract surgery may be considered depending on the patient’s age, prescription, eye health, and near-vision needs. Because BoydVision provides both laser and lens-based procedures, patients can be assessed across a wider range of possible solutions.
The Role of Advanced Technology
BoydVision has invested in advanced laser technology, including the SCHWIND ATOS for SmartSight and the SCHWIND AMARIS for SmartSurface PRK.
This technology allows the surgical team to collect detailed information and provide highly customized treatment. However, technology is only one part of good vision care. The equipment provides valuable precision and data, but an experienced surgeon must still interpret that information and decide how it applies to the individual patient.
The right combination is advanced technology and experienced clinical judgment.
Your Lifestyle Matters Too
The decision is not based only on measurements. Your work, hobbies, schedule, and personal priorities may also influence the recommendation.
For example, someone who participates in contact sports may have different considerations from someone who works primarily in an office. A patient’s comfort with the recovery process, their near-vision needs, and their long-term expectations are also part of the conversation.
Our goal is not simply to determine whether you qualify for surgery. It is to understand which procedure may provide the best balance of safety, visual results, recovery, and long-term suitability for you.
A Personalized Recommendation, Not a Standard Package
At BoydVision, patients have access to several modern vision correction procedures, advanced SCHWIND laser technology, and a surgeon with decades of experience. Together, these elements allow us to make recommendations based on the needs of the individual—not simply on the popularity of a particular procedure.
If you are considering vision correction, contact BoydVision to schedule a consultation and learn which options may be suitable for your eyes.