Accidentally Rubbed My Eyes After SMILE

If you accidentally rubbed your eyes after SMILE surgery, it’s understandable to be concerned. While it’s generally not advisable to rub your eyes after any eye surgery, the potential impact in the case of SMILE depends on several factors:

The potential impact of accidentally rubbing your eyes after SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) surgery depends on several factors, including:

1. Time since surgery:

• High risk: In the first few days after surgery, the corneal flap created during SMILE is still healing and particularly delicate. Rubbing your eyes during this time can increase the risk of dislodging the flap, which can lead to serious complications like infection, decreased vision, or even requiring additional surgery.
• Lower risk: After about a week, the flap becomes more secure, and the risk of complications from rubbing your eyes decreases significantly.

2. Severity of rubbing:

• Gentle touch: A light touch or dab is less likely to cause any problems compared to vigorous rubbing or applying pressure.
• Intense rubbing: Intense rubbing or putting pressure on your eyes can increase the risk of dislodging the flap or damaging the healing tissues.

3. Presence of symptoms:

• No symptoms: If you don’t experience any new or worsening symptoms after rubbing your eyes, such as increased pain, blurry vision, redness, or discharge, it’s likely that no harm was done.
• Symptoms: If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your surgeon immediately to get checked out.

Here are some additional factors that can influence the impact of rubbing your eyes after SMILE:

• Your healing: Some people heal faster than others, so the risk of complications may vary depending on your healing process.
• Pre-existing eye conditions: If you have any pre-existing eye conditions, such as dry eyes or contact lens intolerance, you may be more susceptible to complications from rubbing your eyes.
• The technique used by your surgeon: The specific technique used by your surgeon during SMILE can also play a role in the risk of complications from rubbing your eyes.

What should I Do if I accidentally rub my eyes after SMILE?

If you accidentally rub your eyes after touching your face or smiling, there’s generally no need to panic. However, it’s always a good idea to follow good hygiene practices to minimize the risk of spreading germs or irritants. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Wash Your Hands: Before doing anything else, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This helps reduce the chances of transferring any germs from your hands to your eyes.
2. Avoid Touching Your Face: Try to avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as much as possible. This can help prevent the spread of germs and reduce the risk of infections.
3. Use Eye Drops: If your eyes feel irritated, you can use over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to soothe them. Make sure the eye drops are sterile and intended for use in the eyes.
4. Avoid Rubbing Eyes Further: Refrain from rubbing your eyes further to prevent any potential irritation or introduction of more germs.
5. Maintain Good Hygiene: Practice good hygiene habits, such as regular handwashing, to minimize the risk of infections. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and use tissues or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
6. Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms, such as redness, itching, or discomfort in your eyes. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.

Additional Tips to Prevent Accidental Eye Rubbing After SMILE:

Environment:

• Reduce allergens: Dust, pollen, and smoke can irritate your eyes and trigger the urge to rub. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and invest in an air purifier to control dust and allergens indoors.
• Control humidity: Dry air can also irritate your eyes, making them more susceptible to rubbing. Use a humidifier in your home, especially during winter months, to keep the air moist.
• Manage wind: Be cautious when outside in windy conditions. Wear sunglasses that wrap around your eyes to protect them from dust and debris.

Sleep Habits:

• Please choose the right sleeping position: Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as this puts pressure on your eyes and increases the risk of rubbing them unconsciously. Sleep on your back or sides instead.
• Relaxation techniques: Before bed, practice calming activities like meditation or deep breathing to minimize stress and anxiety, which can contribute to sleep-related eye rubbing.
• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol: These substances can disrupt sleep and make you more restless, increasing the likelihood of rubbing your eyes at night.

General Habits:

• Keep your fingernails short: Long nails can scratch and irritate your eyes, leading to rubbing. Trim your nails regularly and keep them filed smoothly.
• Be mindful: Develop a “hands-off eyes” awareness. When you feel the urge to rub your eyes, stop and consciously redirect your hands to another activity, like folding your arms or clasping them behind your back.
• Substitute the itch: Instead of rubbing, use cool compresses or artificial tears to soothe itchy eyes. You can also gently massage the area around your eyes without putting pressure on them directly.
• Share with supportive people: Inform your family and close friends about your post-SMILE precautions and ask them to remind you to avoid rubbing your eyes gently.