Can You Wear Contact Lenses After SMILE LASIK Surgery? (2025)
Written by B&VIIT Eye Center
2025.02.20
Are you planning to undergo SMILE LASIK? SMILE LASIK is a surgery where the necessary amount of corneal tissue is treated with a laser and extracted through a 2mm micro-incision, allowing for vision correction. One of the advantages of SMILE LASIK is that it causes less corneal damage, leading to faster recovery compared to other vision correction surgeries. Due to the quick recovery, some people may plan to wear colored contact lenses for cosmetic purposes or orthokeratology (dream lenses) if their vision worsens after surgery. Today, we will explore whether it is possible to wear contact lenses after SMILE LASIK surgery.
Is it possible to wear colored contact lenses after SMILE surgery?
After the recovery period following SMILE surgery, it is possible to wear contact lenses. However, contact lenses absorb moisture from the eyes and can restrict oxygen supply, leading to dry eyes and other potential eye conditions. Colored contact lenses, in particular, have a much lower oxygen permeability, so extra caution is needed. If wearing contact lenses is absolutely necessary, it’s best to wear them for the shortest time possible and to use artificial tears frequently while wearing the lenses.
Is it possible to wear dream lenses after SMILE surgery?
If you plan to wear dream lenses due to vision deterioration after the surgery, it may be feasible after a few years, as the eyes would likely experience less strain. However, if you experience glare or dry eyes after the surgery, wearing glasses is generally recommended. It’s best to consult with the clinic where you had the surgery to discuss your options and receive personalized advice.
When can you start wearing contact lenses after surgery?
As mentioned earlier, contact lenses can be worn after the recovery period, but it is recommended to wait at least 1 month and no longer than 6 months after SMILE LASIK surgery. This is because the cornea needs time to heal after the procedure. During this period, vision is stabilizing, so it’s important to avoid activities that may strain the eyes.
Today, we’ve explored whether it is possible to wear contact lenses after SMILE LASIK surgery. Vision correction surgeries like SMILE LASIK require proper post-operative care. Therefore, it’s best to avoid wearing contact lenses for a certain period after surgery to allow your eyes to recover fully. After the surgery, many patients feel like they've found “new light” with their improved vision. We wish all of you who have regained your vision a bright future ahead!
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