SMILE LASIK Recovery Timeline & Aftercare

24–48 Hour Milestones

First Few Hours – Mild tearing, light sensitivity, and a slight gritty feeling are normal. Resting with your eyes closed will speed recovery.
Same Day – Vision will be blurry right after surgery but should gradually start to improve within hours.
Next Day – Many patients are already comfortable walking around, reading, and using a phone briefly.
48 Hours – Most patients can resume light activities, but vision may still fluctuate slightly.

Day 1–3 – Major improvement in clarity, though you may still notice halos or glare at night.
Week 1 – Vision becomes sharper and more stable; night vision symptoms often start to fade.
1 Month – Most patients achieve stable 20/20 or better vision.
3–6 Months – Final visual quality is achieved, including peak contrast sensitivity and minimal dryness.

First 24 Hours – No screen time, driving, or strenuous activity.
First Week – Avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, hot tubs, saunas, and dusty environments.
First Month – No high-contact sports or activities that risk eye injury.
Ongoing – Always wear UV-protective sunglasses outdoors.

Antibiotic Drops – Usually prescribed for 1 week to prevent infection.
Anti-Inflammatory Drops – Used for about 1–2 weeks to reduce swelling.
Lubricating Drops – As often as needed to combat dryness, especially during the first 1–3 months.
Follow the exact dosage and duration given by your surgeon — do not stop early, even if your eyes feel fine.

Contact your clinic immediately if you experience: