SMILE Pro recovery — what to expect

A general recovery timeline

• First few hours: rest with your eyes closed; some watering, light sensitivity or a gritty feeling is normal and eases.
• First 1–2 days: vision often starts to clear; use prescribed drops exactly as directed and avoid rubbing your eyes.
• First week: many people return to routine activities as advised; screen time is usually reintroduced gradually.
• First weeks: dryness or mild night-time glare, if present, typically continues to settle. Attend all follow-up visits.
• Individual variation: healing speed differs between people and eyes — follow your surgeon's specific guidance rather than a fixed timetable.

Aftercare that helps

• Use lubricating and prescribed drops on schedule.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes, and follow guidance on swimming, dusty environments and eye make-up.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors for comfort against light and wind.
• Keep your follow-up appointments so your surgeon can confirm healing is on track.

When to call your surgeon

Mild dryness, watering or fluctuating vision in the early days is common. But if you notice increasing pain, worsening vision or unusual symptoms, contact your surgeon promptly rather than waiting. Clear aftercare and easy access to your surgical team are part of a good SMILE Pro experience.