Posted by: Manhattan LASIK Center

ZEISS SMILE is one of the newest and most advanced forms of laser vision correction. Most suitable for patients who are nearsighted (myopia), it uses a less invasive technique during which a small area of tissue called a lenticule is removed from the cornea to reshape it and correct the patient’s vision. This is done using state-of-the-art laser technology and performed with eye numbing drops, meaning that patients don’t experience any pain or discomfort. ZEISS SMILE is considered one of the safest and most effective techniques for laser vision correction.

If you are considering ZEISS SMILE to transform your vision, here’s what you need to know about what to expect the day after your procedure and beyond.

The First 24 hours After ZEISS SMILE

The first 24 hours following your procedure will be crucial as this is when the initial stage of healing and recovery takes place. Your Manhattan LASIK Center surgeon will advise you to go home and rest your eyes as much as possible. You should try and take a nap right away, and avoid activities such as reading, watching tv, or using digital devices for the rest of the day. This will give your eyes plenty of opportunities to remain relaxed and unfocused so that the healing process can begin.

You may start to notice an improvement in your vision within hours of your procedure, but it’s important not to strain your eyes and to continue resting them.

Your SMILE surgeon in Paramus, NJ will give you very specific instructions to follow during your recovery period. You’ll also be scheduled a follow-up appointment a few days later so that your surgeon can check on the progress of your healing. If you are provided with any medication, such as eye drops, you should make sure that you use these exactly as directed. The good news is that the recovery from the ZEISS SMILE is usually much faster than other types of laser vision correction, which makes it a great option for patients with active lifestyles.

Side Effects After ZEISS SMILE

There are a variety of temporary side effects that have been associated with ZEISS SMILE, including but not limited to:

  • Halos or glares around lights
  • Dryness
  • Sensitivity to light

These side effects usually only last around 24 hours before dissipating. If you have any concerns about any side effects that you are experiencing, you should contact your eye doctor at Manhattan LASIK Center as soon as possible.

When Will I Be Able To Drive After ZEISS SMILE?

You won’t be able to drive for at least 24 hours following your SMILE surgery, and so you should arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure. This is because your vision will be blurry right after the operation. Fortunately, most patients can get back behind the wheel within 48 hours. Enjoy the novelty of a chauffeur while you can!

Generally, it takes around 48-72 hours for a patient’s vision to become completely functional again. Nevertheless, every patient is different, and some will find that their vision returns more quickly. Thanks to its minimally invasive nature, our ZEISS SMILE patients can get back to their usual activities such as swimming and outdoor sports within a few days following their procedure. They are also able to watch tv, use a computer or laptop, and read normally within a day or two!

If you have any questions about recovery following ZEISS SMILE, or to schedule a FREE consultation to discuss your candidacy for this treatment, please contact our experienced laser vision correction team at Manhattan LASIK Center in Paramus, NJ at (212) 759-9617.