After SMILE Pro eye surgery, you should follow your surgeon’s instructions closely, protect your eyes from irritants, and avoid rubbing or straining them for a smooth recovery.
Knowing the essential do’s and don’ts will help you heal quickly, reduce complications, and enjoy your best vision results.
If you’re preparing for SMILE Pro or just had the procedure, this guide will walk you through the most important aftercare steps, answer common questions, and help you feel confident about your recovery.
Why Is Aftercare So Important After SMILE Pro?
SMILE Pro is a minimally invasive, flapless laser eye surgery with a fast recovery and low risk of complications. However, your actions in the days and weeks after surgery directly affect how well your eyes heal and how quickly you see clearly. Good aftercare protects your eyes from infection, irritation, and injury, setting you up for the best possible results.
The Essential Do’s After SMILE Pro Eye Surgery
1. Use Your Prescribed Eye Drops
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions for antibiotic, steroid, and lubricating drops.
- Eye drops help protect against infection, minimise inflammation, and keep your eyes comfortable.
- Always wash your hands before applying drops.
2. Rest Your Eyes
- Take it easy for the first 24 hours.
- Sleep or keep your eyes closed as much as possible after surgery to promote healing.
- Limit screen time, reading, and close-up work initially.
3. Wear Sunglasses Outdoors
- Protect your eyes from sunlight, wind, and dust for at least 7–10 days, or as advised by your surgeon.
- Sunglasses help prevent irritation and sensitivity to light.
4. Keep Your Hands and Face Clean
- Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes.
- Use a fresh towel and change your pillowcases often to lower the risk of infection.
5. Attend All Follow-Up Appointments
- Go to every scheduled checkup with your surgeon.
- Follow-up visits let your doctor monitor healing and address any issues early.
6. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
- Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet.
- Good nutrition supports your body’s healing process.
7. Use Artificial Tears as Needed
- If your eyes feel dry, apply preservative-free artificial tears.
- This improves comfort and lowers the likelihood of experiencing dry eye symptoms.
The Essential Don’ts After SMILE Pro Eye Surgery
1. Don’t Rub or Press on Your Eyes
- Rubbing your eyes can interfere with healing and raise the risk of infection or other complications.
- If your eyes itch or feel gritty, use lubricating drops instead.
2. Don’t Let Water Get in Your Eyes
- Stay away from swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas for at least two weeks, and be careful to keep shower water out of your eyes during the first 7–10 days.
- Water exposure can introduce bacteria and heighten the risk of infection.
3. Don’t Wear Eye Makeup or Creams
- Skip mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and facial creams around your eyes for at least 1 week, or until your surgeon gives the go-ahead.
- Makeup particles can irritate healing eyes and harbour bacteria.
4. Don’t Drive Until Your Surgeon Approves
- Wait until your vision has cleared and your doctor gives you the go-ahead.
- Most people can drive within a day or two, but follow your surgeon’s advice.
5. Don’t Expose Your Eyes to Smoke, Dust, or Chemical Fumes
- Avoid smoky rooms, dusty places, and strong cleaning products.
- These can irritate your eyes and slow healing.
6. Don’t Resume Strenuous Activities Too Soon
- Refrain from strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least a week, and steer clear of contact sports for 2–4 weeks, or as recommended by your surgeon.
- Your surgeon may advise longer for high-impact or dusty activities.
7. Don’t Skip Your Medications
- Missing antibiotic or steroid drops can increase the risk of infection or inflammation.
- Set reminders if needed to stay on schedule.
Mini How-To: Applying Eye Drops After SMILE Pro
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Tilt your head back and look up.
- Gently pull down your lower eyelid.
- Squeeze one drop into the pocket—don’t touch the bottle tip to your eye.
- Keep your eye gently closed for about a minute, then open it and blink normally.
- Allow at least 5 minutes between applying different types of eye drops.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery After SMILE Pro
- Set alarms for your eye drop schedule.
- Keep sunglasses handy, even indoors, if you’re sensitive to light.
- Use a humidifier in dry environments to keep your eyes comfortable.
- For the first few nights, keep your head slightly elevated while sleeping.
What to Watch For? Red Flags After SMILE Pro
Inform your surgeon promptly if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe or increasing eye pain
- Sudden decrease in vision
- Persistent redness, swelling, or discharge
- Flashes of light or new floaters
Prompt attention can prevent complications and protect your vision.
Healing Well and Seeing Clearly
Following the do’s and don’ts after SMILE Pro eye surgery is the best way to ensure a safe, comfortable recovery and lasting results.
Take care of your eyes, keep in touch with your surgeon, and enjoy the freedom of clearer vision. If you have any questions or concerns during your healing process, reach out to your eye care team—they’re there to help you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions on Post-SMILE Pro Do’s and Don’ts
How Soon Can I Use Screens After SMILE Pro?
- Limit screen time for the first 24 hours.
- After that, use screens in short bursts and take frequent breaks.
- If your eyes feel tired or dry, rest and use artificial tears.
When Can I Shower or Wash My Face?
- You can shower the day after surgery, but keep your eyes closed and avoid direct water spray.
- Gently cleanse your face with a damp cloth, taking care to avoid the eye area.
When Can I Return to Work or School?
- Most people can return to work or school within 1–2 days, depending on how quickly their vision stabilises and the nature of their tasks.
- If your work involves dust, chemicals, or physical activity, ask your doctor for specific advice.
When Can I Resume Exercise?
- Light walking is fine after a couple of days.
- Wait at least a week for more vigorous activities. Avoid swimming for 2 weeks and contact sports for 3–4 weeks, or follow your surgeon’s recommendations.