Visual recovery with SMILE Pro is remarkably fast, typically within 24 hours. However, understanding what happens during this short but crucial period post-surgery can help you feel more at ease and prepared.
If you’ve recently undergone SMILE Pro eye surgery—or are considering it—you’re on the cusp of a life-changing improvement in your vision. SMILE Pro (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) has become one of the leading refractive surgeries globally, offering a minimally invasive alternative to LASIK and PRK. To help you navigate the recovery process, this guide will outline the typical experiences within the first 24 hours after surgery. From immediate visual improvements to temporary effects, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
A Quick Recap of SMILE Pro Eye Surgery
Before we discuss the recovery process, it’s useful to understand what SMILE Pro is and how it works. Unlike traditional LASIK, which involves creating a flap in the cornea, SMILE Pro uses a precise laser to create a small lenticule (a thin, lens-shaped layer). This lenticule is removed through a micro-incision, reshaping the cornea and correcting vision. With such minimal disruption to the cornea, SMILE Pro ensures faster healing and fewer post-op complications.
Now that you’re familiar with the procedure, let’s walk through what you can expect within the first 24 hours.
1. Immediately After Surgery (First Hour)
Feeling Normal Yet Cautious
The surgery itself is quick—around 10 seconds for laser component per eye—and you’ll feel little to no discomfort thanks to the anaesthetic eye drops applied during the procedure. After surgery, you may notice that your vision is slightly blurry, similar to looking through fogged glasses or misty glasses. This is normal and begins to clear up quickly.
Most patients report a sensation of eye sensitivity rather than pain. Your ophthalmologist will check your eyes post-surgery to ensure everything went smoothly. You’ll also receive protective shields to wear over your eyes to safeguard them from accidental rubbing or environmental contaminants.
Taking It Easy
After leaving the clinic, your focus should be on resting. Your vision may seem odd during this immediate phase, but give it time—it’s part of your body adapting to the treatment. Avoid staring at screens or reading fine print, and rest your eyes as much as possible.
2. The First Few Hours (2–6 Hours Post-Surgery)
Mild Discomfort and Tearing
It’s common to experience mild symptoms during the first few hours after your SMILE Pro procedure. This may include:
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- A slightly gritty feeling in your eyes, resembling dry eyes or a foreign particle
- Excessive tearing as your eyes adjust
These reactions are part of the natural healing process and typically subside by the evening of the same day. Your ophthalmologist may prescribe lubricating eye drops to provide comfort and speed up recovery.
Immediate Instructions to Follow
Follow any aftercare guidelines provided by your surgeon to the letter. Key things to keep in mind include:
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: While it might be tempting to alleviate discomfort, never touch or rub your eyes.
- Use Eye Drops as Directed: These drops help prevent dryness and infection while ensuring rapid healing.
- Rest is Key: Relaxation aids recovery. Spend this time keeping your eyes closed to encourage healing.
3. Clarity Begins to Emerge (6–12 Hours Post-Surgery)
Early Signs of Visual Improvement
For most patients, the foggy or blurry vision experienced earlier begins to clear within this window. Many describe a “wow” moment as their vision sharpens and details come into focus. This dramatic visual improvement is one of the reasons SMILE Pro is so revolutionary.
Still Some Hazy Moments
Don’t worry if your vision isn’t 100% perfect just yet. It’s highly likely that brightness or screen glare will bother you slightly, and lights might appear haloed. These effects fade as your corneas stabilise. To stay comfortable, wear sunglasses during daylight hours, even indoors if needed.
4. Night and Beyond (12–24 Hours Post-Surgery)
Enjoying Functional Vision
By the 12-hour mark, most SMILE Pro recipients experience functional vision. This means you’ll be able to perform day-to-day tasks like seeing your phone screen or walking around without glasses. Many patients wake up the next morning amazed at the clarity of their surroundings.
Return Visit to Your Ophthalmologist
Within the first 24 hours, you’ll have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon. They will check your eyes to confirm the healing process is on track, and your vision is progressing as expected. If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as severe pain or extreme redness, this is the time to communicate them.
Tips to Support Recovery
While SMILE Pro offers a fast recovery, a smooth post-op experience also depends on how carefully you follow your aftercare plan. Here are some additional tips to ensure optimal healing:
1. Avoid Water Exposure
For the first 48 hours, stay clear of swimming pools, hot tubs, or even getting water in your eyes when showering.
2. Take a Break from Makeup
Steer clear of eye makeup for a week to prevent bacteria near your eyes.
3. Skip Heavy Lifting or Exercise
Hold off on gym sessions until your surgeon gives you the nod. Strenuous activities can strain your eyes.
4. Sleep with Eye Shields
Ensure you continue to wear the protective shields supplied by your clinic while sleeping. This minimises the risk of accidental eye rubbing during the night.
When to Call Your Doctor
Although serious complications from SMILE Pro are rare, being vigilant is important. Contact your ophthalmologist immediately if you experience:
- Severe or increasing pain
- Sudden vision loss or major blurring
- Unusual swelling or prolonged redness
Why SMILE Pro Recovery is Worth It
One of the best aspects of SMILE Pro is how quickly patients can resume normal life. Within just 24 hours, most feel comfortable enough to return to work, drive, or enjoy activities like reading or screen time.
Additionally, SMILE Pro offers lasting benefits. With a reduced risk of dry eye syndrome compared to LASIK, minimal post-op side effects, and a short recovery time, it’s a game-changer for those seeking freedom from glasses and contact lenses.
A Final Word for SMILE Pro Patients
Recovering from SMILE Pro eye surgery is a swift and often seamless process. By the end of your first 24 hours, you’ll likely find yourself smiling (no pun intended) at the newfound clarity and comfort in your vision. The key is to rest, be gentle with your eyes, and follow your post-op care guidelines closely.
If you’re still considering SMILE Pro or have recently undergone the procedure, know that your path to visual freedom is closer than you think. Trust your surgeon, adhere to the aftercare plan, and prepare to see the world in a way you’ve never seen before.
