Undergoing vision correction surgery is an exciting step toward clearer vision without glasses or contact lenses. But what happens after the procedure? The first week is an important period when the eyes begin healing and vision gradually becomes more stable.
At SNU Eye Clinic, patients undergoing procedures such as SMILE and SMILE PRO are guided through a structured recovery process. While recovery varies from person to person, knowing what is commonly expected can make the first week more comfortable and less stressful.
The First 24 Hours: Let Your Eyes Rest
Immediately after vision correction, it is normal for vision to feel different from what you expected. You may experience:
-
Hazy or slightly blurred vision
-
Mild tearing
-
Light sensitivity
-
A foreign-body or gritty sensation
-
Vision that is clear at some moments and slightly hazy at others
For SMILE and SMILE PRO, many patients experience functional vision within the first day, although the vision may not yet feel completely crisp.
During this period, resting your eyes and following your surgeon’s instructions are important. Prescribed eye drops should be used exactly as directed, and rubbing the eyes should be avoided.
Days 2–3: Vision Usually Becomes Noticeably Clearer
For many patients, the second and third days bring a noticeable improvement in clarity. Everyday activities such as working, studying, or moving around outdoors may become much easier.
However, vision does not necessarily remain identical throughout the day. You may notice that your eyes feel clearer in the morning and slightly less sharp later in the day, particularly after prolonged screen use.
This type of fluctuation can occur while the cornea and tear film continue to stabilize.
Days 4–7: Stabilization Continues
By the end of the first week, many patients experience substantially sharper and more comfortable vision. However, the healing process is still continuing.
Some temporary symptoms may remain, including:
-
Mild dryness
-
Occasional fluctuations in sharpness
-
Light sensitivity
-
Glare or halos around lights, particularly at night
-
Eye fatigue after extended screen use
These symptoms generally improve as the eyes continue to heal. Vision may continue refining beyond the first week rather than reaching its final state immediately. (SNU Eye Clinic)
What Should You Do During the First Week?
Good aftercare can support a smooth recovery.
Use prescribed eye drops
Antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and/or lubricating drops may be prescribed depending on the procedure and your individual needs. Follow your surgeon’s instructions rather than changing the schedule yourself.
Avoid rubbing your eyes
Even if your eyes feel itchy or dry, avoid rubbing them during the early healing period.
Protect your eyes from water and irritation
Avoid swimming and situations where contaminated water, dust, smoke, or other irritants could enter the eyes. When showering, avoid directing water straight toward the eyes.
Take breaks from screens
Long periods of computer or smartphone use can make dryness and visual fatigue more noticeable. Remember to blink regularly and give your eyes frequent breaks.
Follow your scheduled check-up
Postoperative examinations allow your ophthalmologist to check corneal healing, tear-film stability, and visual recovery and to adjust treatment when necessary.
When Should You Contact Your Eye Doctor?
Mild dryness, temporary fluctuation, and some light sensitivity can be part of normal recovery. However, symptoms that are severe, worsening, or unexpected should not simply be ignored.
Contact your eye clinic promptly if you experience symptoms such as:
-
Sudden decrease in vision
-
Increasing or significant eye pain
-
Persistent or worsening redness
-
Unusual discharge
-
Severe or persistent dryness
-
Eye trauma
Early evaluation allows your ophthalmologist to determine whether additional treatment or monitoring is necessary.
Remember: The First Week Is Only the Beginning
Seeing better within the first few days does not necessarily mean that your vision has reached its final result. After SMILE and SMILE PRO, vision can continue becoming sharper and more stable over the following weeks, with further optical refinement occurring over the next few months.
The key during the first week is simple: protect your eyes, use your prescribed drops, avoid rubbing, follow activity restrictions, and attend your follow-up appointments.
At SNU Eye Clinic, postoperative care is an important part of the vision correction journey, helping patients understand what is normal during recovery and allowing the medical team to monitor healing and visual stability.
Recovery varies depending on the procedure, prescription, corneal condition, and individual healing response. Always follow the specific postoperative instructions provided by your ophthalmologist.