---
title: "SMILE vs LASIK Cost: Why Prices Differ"
description: "SMILE and LASIK are both modern laser procedures, but their cost structures differ. **Why SMILE may cost more** - Platform licensing - Proprietary consumables - Smaller number of centres offering SMILE - Earlier nerve recovery compared with LASIK in some…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/treatments-procedures/smile-vs-lasik-cost-why-prices-differ/"
updated: "2026-03-02"
category: "Treatments & Procedures"
---

# SMILE vs LASIK Cost: Why Prices Differ

SMILE and LASIK are both modern laser procedures, but their cost structures differ.

**Why SMILE may cost more**

- Platform licensing
- Proprietary consumables
- Smaller number of centres offering SMILE
- Earlier nerve recovery compared with LASIK in some studies ¹

**Why LASIK may cost more**

- Wavefront/topography-guided customisation
- Femtosecond flap creation
- Broader enhancement pathways

**Typical UK ranges**

Both procedures fall within £1,500-£3,000 per eye, with SMILE often slightly higher due to licensing.

**References**

1. Li M, Zhang G, Feng S, et al. Influences of SMILE and FS-LASIK on corneal sub-basal nerves: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. *J Refract Surg.* 2022;38(4):277-284.

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