While the SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) procedure itself is typically performed with numbing eye drops to ensure you don't feel pain during the surgery, you may experience some pain and a gritty sensation in the hours following the procedure. This discomfort usually lasts for about 6 to 12 hours.
Understanding Discomfort After SMILE Surgery
SMILE is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery designed to correct vision problems like myopia and astigmatism. Although the surgery itself is not painful due to local anesthesia, it's common for patients to experience some level of discomfort during the initial recovery period.
What to Expect Post-Surgery:
- Pain and Gritty Sensation: As mentioned, you might feel a sensation similar to having grit in your eye, accompanied by mild pain. This is a temporary side effect of the healing process.
- Duration: This discomfort typically subsides within 6 to 12 hours after the surgery.
- Other Potential Sensations: Besides pain, you may experience tearing, light sensitivity, or blurred vision immediately after the procedure.
Associated Risks and Side Effects:
While generally considered safe, like any surgical procedure, SMILE carries some potential risks and side effects that contribute to the overall post-operative experience. These are distinct from the immediate pain but are important considerations for a complete understanding:
- Corneal Abrasions: You may experience corneal abrasions (scratches on the surface of the eye) or small tears at the incision site. These can contribute to discomfort.
- Refractive Errors: There's a risk of overcorrection or undercorrection. If this happens, your vision may not be perfectly corrected, and you might need to continue wearing glasses or contact lenses.
- General Safety: The procedure is generally safe, but awareness of these potential issues is key for managing expectations during recovery.
It's important to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions, which may include using prescribed eye drops and avoiding certain activities to minimize discomfort and ensure proper healing.
