Timetable For Your SMILE Pro Treatment
Below, we outline step by step what you can expect during your SMILE Pro laser eye surgery at betterview. From the initial free preliminary examination to the treatment itself, as well as potential side effects and the post-surgery aftercare.
- Before the treatment
Preliminary and main examination
First there is a free, no-obligation preliminary examination where we will determine if you’re a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery and which eye treatment would be best for you.
The main examination lasts approximately 45 minutes and involves a thorough assessment of your vision, cornea, and the back of your eye. This ensures that SMILE Pro is the most appropriate laser eye treatment for you.
It is important that you refrain from wearing contact lenses for at least four days before this appointment. It is also advised that you do not drive to the Westfield White City clinic for the appointment as the eye drops that are administered may temporarily impair your vision for several hours, meaning you will not be able to drive home.
- Day of treatment
The Procedure
The third appointment at betterview is when the SMILE laser surgery takes place. Your eyes will be numbed with eye drops, and the eye area will be disinfected in preparation for the procedure. SMILE Pro is a minimally invasive treatment where we will use eyelid holders to gently keep your eyes open, and then the femtosecond laser is employed. The laser creates a small opening and a thin corneal lens, known as a lenticule. The treating doctor will then remove the loose lenticule through the opening. We recommend allowing approximately one hour for the entire appointment.
- After the first few hours
Possible Laser Eye Surgery Side-Effects
Immediately after the treatment, it is normal for your eyes to be sensitive to light, appear red, or feel as though there is something in them. Other common side effects in the first 2-3 days may include blurred vision, watery, dry, or burning eyes, and temporary fluctuations in vision. It is recommended to wear sunglasses on your way home to protect your eyes from glare and particles.*
- After 24 hours
First Follow-Up Appointment
In your first follow-up appointment, which will take place at our London clinic four days after the treatment, your vision will be assessed without the use of visual aids. Typically you will have nearly regained your full vision by this time, and a certificate from the road traffic authority can be provided to say you’re safe to drive. In general, you can resume your daily activities as usual. However, please continue to follow the post-treatment recovery guide and use the prescribed eye drops as outlined in your eye drop plan.
- After 7 days
Second Follow-Up Appointment and Resuming Everyday Activities
The second follow-up appointment is scheduled for two weeks after your SMILE Pro laser eye treatment. By this time, you will have fully regained your vision and should no longer experience any significant side effects. After these two weeks, you can resume swimming, sports, and using saunas, as well as applying make-up and creams around the eye area. If you have any questions or need further information, our Medical Team at the Westfield White City clinic and our Customer Care Team are available to assist you by phone at any time.
*Please note that the perception of pain and symptoms can vary and be individually pronounced from person to person. Therefore, the timeline may also be slightly different for you.