Life after Smile Pro Eye Surgery begins with clarity and comfort.
From the moment you open your eyes, you’ll notice a remarkable difference—it feels like stepping into a world with sharper focus and brighter colours.
For those curious about what life looks like the day after undergoing this cutting-edge laser vision correction, this blog will guide you step by step through what to expect and how to make the most of this exciting new chapter.
What Is Smile Pro Eye Surgery?
Before we talk about life after surgery, it’s worth understanding what Smile Pro actually involves. Smile Pro (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery designed to correct vision issues, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Unlike traditional laser eye surgeries like LASIK, Smile Pro only requires a tiny incision, which means faster healing and reduced discomfort. This has made it a popular choice for people wanting to say goodbye to glasses and contact lenses.
The Immediate Post-Surgery Experience
After undergoing Smile Pro Eye Surgery, the first 24 hours are crucial for healing, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Leaving the Clinic
Once the procedure is done, you’ll spend a brief period in the recovery area. Your doctor will check your eyes to make sure everything looks good before you go home. While you’re likely to have clear vision almost immediately, things may feel slightly hazy or blurry—this is completely normal.
Avoid driving yourself home. Make arrangements for a friend or family member to accompany you because your vision may still be adjusting, and you’ll likely feel drowsy due to any mild sedative or numbing drops used during the surgery.
2. First Few Hours
Upon returning home, rest is your top priority. Most patients are advised to take a nap or at least keep their eyes closed for a couple of hours. You may experience:
- Mild discomfort or a gritty sensation in your eyes, similar to having an eyelash stuck in them.
- Light sensitivity—so consider dimming the lights and wearing sunglasses indoors whenever possible.
- A slight watery discharge, which is your eyes’ way of flushing out irritation.
Your surgeon might have already provided lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes hydrated—ensure you apply them as directed.
3. Evening
By the evening, you may start noticing improvements in your vision. Colours appear richer, and objects look sharper, even in low light. However, avoid screen time, heavy reading, or any strenuous activity. These could strain your eyes unnecessarily.
What’s a Normal Day Like After the Surgery?
Once you’ve got through the first 24 hours, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how “normal” life feels. Unlike other types of eye surgery that may involve a longer downtime, Smile Pro lets you return to your daily habits within a day. Here’s what that might look like:
Morning
1. Wake Up to Clear Vision
For many patients, the first morning after surgery is a surreal experience. It’s often the first time in years that you’ll open your eyes to crisp vision without needing glasses or contacts.
You may still feel a slight dryness or sensitivity, but these sensations are temporary. Use your prescribed eye drops to start your day comfortably.
2. Follow Your Care Routine
- Skip the Shower Splash — While you can take a shower, avoid letting water, soap, or shampoo come into direct contact with your eyes.
- No Makeup Zone — If you’re someone who loves eyeliner or mascara, be patient! Your surgeon will likely recommend avoiding eye makeup for at least a week to minimise risks of infection.
3. Healthy, Eye-Friendly Breakfast
A balanced meal rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and leafy greens can promote eye health and assist your recovery process. Think oatmeal with a handful of nuts or avocado toast paired with fresh orange juice.
Midday
1. Back to Work or Light Reading
If your job doesn’t involve heavy computer use or being in dusty environments, you can often return to work within a day post-surgery. Writers, bloggers, or admins will find this especially helpful—after all, there’s no greater productivity hack than clear vision! Still, plan regular breaks from screens to avoid unnecessary strain.
2. Outdoor Activities
Your eye surgeon might encourage light walks in the fresh air. Just remember to wear high-quality UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes from sunlight. If you’re an athlete, hold off on gym sessions or swimming for at least a week and consult with your physician for specific timelines.
3. Eye Drop Application
Stick to your schedule for using lubricating and/or medicated eye drops. This helps prevent dryness and keeps inflammation down.
Evening
1. Enjoy Time with Loved Ones
Enjoy catching up with family or friends—maybe even take in a good movie, as long as your screens are set to lower brightness. If television feels like too much of a strain, a relaxing podcast or radio show can be a great alternative.
2. Reflect on Your Vision
By now, most patients find their vision significantly improved. Reading, navigating your surroundings, or even looking up at the night sky can be moments of re-discovery, where you find joy in all the details you used to miss.
3. Wind Down
Finish your day with a calming bedtime routine. Place a blue-light filter on your devices if you use your phone or laptop during the evening. Don’t forget to apply your final dose of eye drops before heading to bed.
What Are the Do’s and Don’ts of Recovering?
Do’s
- Regularly use prescribed eye drops.
- Wear any protective eye shields provided, especially while sleeping.
- Keep wearing sunglasses outdoors to block UV rays.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you notice severe pain or changes in your vision.
Don’ts
- Avoid rubbing your eyes at all costs! Rubbing is one of the easiest ways to disrupt healing.
- Avoid dusty or smoky places until your doctor gives the green light.
- Refrain from swimming or engaging in water sports for at least two weeks.
When to Resume Your Favourite Activities
Here’s a quick timeline for when you can safely resume key activities:
- Driving — Usually after one or two days, depending on how comfortable you feel.
- Light Exercise — After a week, but avoid sweat getting into your eyes.
- Heavy Workouts — Two to three weeks, or as advised by your surgeon.
- Makeup Application — At least one week for the eye area.
- Swimming — Three to four weeks.
How to Make the Most of Your New Vision
Smile Pro Eye Surgery isn’t just about eliminating your dependence on glasses or contacts—it’s about enhancing your quality of life. Here are ways to use your newfound clarity to its fullest:
- Explore New Hobbies — Photography, painting, and birdwatching are all enhanced through better vision.
- Simplify Your Routine — No more fumbling for glasses or struggling with contact lenses in the morning.
- Boost Your Confidence — Meeting new people, attending events, or even taking selfies feel different when you’re not worrying about glasses reflections!
The Bottom Line
A day in the life after Smile Pro Eye Surgery is a leap into a more vibrant and comfortable world. With rapid recovery, immediate visual improvements, and minimal restrictions, patients can enjoy the benefits of this life-changing procedure almost immediately. However, the key to a smooth recovery lies in following medical advice and practising good eye care habits.
If you’ve undergone Smile Pro Eye Surgery or are considering it, share your thoughts and experiences with others. And always consult your doctor for guidance tailored to your unique needs. Here’s to clearer days ahead!
