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LASIK Alternatives in
San Francisco & Santa Rosa

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LASIK is the most well-known vision correction surgery, but it isn’t the right choice for every patient. At LaserVue Eye Center, Dr. Jay Bansal and our team have been performing modern vision correction since 1996, with a full range of alternatives to LASIK so we can match the right procedure to each patient’s eyes, lifestyle, and goals. Below are the LASIK alternatives we offer at our San Francisco and Santa Rosa locations.

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SMILE Eye Surgery

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is the newest generation of laser vision correction. Unlike LASIK, SMILE is performed through a tiny incision rather than creating a corneal flap, which makes it a strong option for patients with dry eyes or thinner corneas. Learn more about SMILE eye surgery.

Patient in ophthalmology clinic having his eyes examined by eye doctor
Eye care technician reviewing results on a diagnostic device

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

PRK was the original laser vision correction procedure and remains an excellent option for patients who are not candidates for LASIK or SMILE. Because PRK does not create a corneal flap, it is often recommended for patients with thinner corneas, certain corneal irregularities, or active lifestyles where flap-related risk is a concern. Learn more about PRK at LaserVue.

EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)

EVO ICL is a lens-based alternative to laser vision correction. Instead of reshaping the cornea, a biocompatible lens is positioned inside the eye to correct your prescription. ICL is reversible, preserves the natural cornea, and is often the right choice for patients with very high prescriptions or thin corneas who are not LASIK candidates. Learn more about EVO ICL.
Optometrist adjusting trial frames on a female patient
Dr Wangyu Cataract

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

Refractive Lens Exchange replaces the eye’s natural lens with a premium intraocular lens (IOL). RLE is most commonly recommended for patients over 40 who are starting to experience presbyopia (the gradual loss of near vision), and for patients with higher prescriptions or early cataract development. RLE also prevents future cataracts from developing. Learn more about RLE.

Which LASIK Alternative Is Right for You?

The right vision correction procedure depends on your prescription, corneal thickness and shape, age, lifestyle, and overall eye health. At LaserVue Eye Center, every consultation includes a comprehensive evaluation, including precise 3D mapping of your eye, to determine which procedures you are a candidate for. Dr. Bansal and our optometric team will walk you through every option and help you choose the procedure that fits your eyes and your goals.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

If you have been told you are not a LASIK candidate, or you want to explore newer options like SMILE or EVO ICL, schedule a free consultation at one of our two Bay Area locations. San Francisco: (415) 346-5500. Santa Rosa: (707) 522-6200. Toll-free: 1-800-527-3745. Or request a consultation online.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the alternatives to LASIK?

Several effective alternatives to LASIK are available, including SMILE, PRK, EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens), and Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE). The best option depends on your prescription, corneal health, age, and vision goals.

Patients with thin corneas, certain corneal irregularities, severe dry eyes, very high prescriptions, or other eye health concerns may not be ideal LASIK candidates. A comprehensive eye evaluation can determine which vision correction procedure is most appropriate.

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser vision correction procedure performed through a small incision instead of creating a corneal flap. It may be a good option for patients with dry eyes or thinner corneas.

Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, the surface layer of the cornea is gently removed before laser treatment. This makes PRK a suitable option for patients with thin corneas or active lifestyles where flap-related concerns exist.

EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a lens-based vision correction procedure that places a biocompatible lens inside the eye without reshaping the cornea. It is often recommended for patients with high prescriptions or those who are not candidates for laser vision correction.

Yes. One of the advantages of EVO ICL is that the implanted lens can be removed or replaced if necessary, making it a reversible vision correction option.

Refractive Lens Exchange replaces the eye’s natural lens with a premium intraocular lens (IOL) to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. It is commonly recommended for patients over age 40 with presbyopia or higher prescriptions.

Yes. Because RLE replaces the eye’s natural lens, it eliminates the possibility of developing cataracts in the future.

Patients with thin corneas may be good candidates for SMILE, PRK, or EVO ICL, depending on their individual eye measurements and prescription. A comprehensive eye exam is needed to determine the most appropriate treatment.

The best procedure depends on several factors, including your prescription, corneal thickness and shape, age, lifestyle, and overall eye health. A detailed consultation with advanced eye measurements helps determine your candidacy.

Your consultation includes a comprehensive eye examination and detailed 3D mapping of your eyes. Your doctor and optometric team will review your results, explain your treatment options, and recommend the procedure that best fits your needs.

Possibly. While dry eyes may affect LASIK candidacy, procedures such as SMILE may be better suited for some patients. An eye evaluation can determine the safest and most effective option.

Yes. Even if you’ve been told you’re not a LASIK candidate, you may still qualify for another vision correction procedure such as SMILE, PRK, EVO ICL, or Refractive Lens Exchange. A comprehensive evaluation can identify which options are available for your eyes.

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LASIK Alternatives Doctors

Dr Jay Bansal LaserVue JPG.jpg

Jay Bansal, MD

Your LASIK & Cataract Surgeon in Northern California

Stephanie Wangyu MD, Comprehensive Ophthalmologist, Eye Surgeon, LASIK Surgeon, Cataract Surgeon in San Francisco Bay Area Santa Rosa LaserVue Eye Center

Stephanie Wangyu, MD

Ophthalmologist

Hannah Walsh, OD, MSc, LaserVue Eye Center Clinic Director in San Francisco

Hannah Walsh, OD, MSc

Doctor of Optometry

Francesca Sefton, OD, Clinic Director, LaserVue Eye Center in Santa Rosa

Francesca Sefton, OD

Doctor of Optometry

Ready to SEE a Change?

Helping you to achieve your personal best vision is our mission at LaserVue Eye Center. Wondering where to start?

Please complete the fields on the right to schedule a free consultation and discuss your options with our eye doctors! You can also Call 1-800-527-3745 to speak with our staff.

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