What to Expect Before SMILE Laser Eye Surgery
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea through a tiny keyhole incision instead of a large flap. Recovery is typically faster and more comfortable than traditional LASIK, with most people back to work, driving, and the gym within a few days.
Preparing properly in the days before surgery helps your surgeon get accurate measurements and ensures a smooth experience on procedure day.
Your SMILE appointment details
- Location: 9100 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 265E, Beverly Hills, CA 90212.
- Parking: Garage parking with validation is available in the building.
- You will be given your exact date and time, plus a 1-day post-op appointment, in advance.
Contact Lens Removal Before SMILE
Contact lenses temporarily change the shape of your cornea. To get the sharpest possible measurements and outcome, lenses need to be discontinued ahead of time.
Soft contact lenses
- Stop wearing soft contact lenses at least 3–7 days before your SMILE procedure.
- If you wear soft toric lenses for astigmatism, your surgeon may prefer the full 7 days.
Gas permeable / hard lenses
- Gas permeable or hard contact lenses are typically stopped 3–4 weeks before surgery.
- Your exact timing will be individualized based on how long and how often you wear them.
If you accidentally wear lenses after the cutoff date, let the office know. Your surgeon may decide to repeat testing or adjust your surgery date.
Yellow-Cap Combination Eye Drops Before SMILE
Most SMILE patients are given a yellow-cap combination drop that contains antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medication in one bottle. Some patients may instead receive separate bottles (for example, an antibiotic alone).
Pre-op drop schedule
- Main medication: Yellow-cap combination drop (antibiotic + steroid ± NSAID) – this is your primary pre-op drop.
- Alternative: If you were given a separate antibiotic bottle (such as Moxifloxacin), follow the same schedule unless told otherwise.
- Start: 1 day before your SMILE procedure.
- Dose: 1 drop in each eye, 4 times per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner, bedtime).
- Use the same yellow-cap bottle on the morning of surgery, as instructed.
- Bring all of your eye drop bottles with you on the day of surgery.
Day of Your SMILE Procedure
Fragrance, makeup, and skin products
- No perfumes, colognes, or scented lotions on your face, neck, or chest.
- Remove all facial and eye makeup the night before surgery.
- Do not wear any makeup on the day of your procedure; make sure there is no mascara or eyeliner residue along the lashes.
- Roll-on deodorant is fine to use.
Food, drink, and medications
- Eat a light meal before your procedure.
- You may take your usual medications as necessary, unless told otherwise.
- No smoking on the day of your procedure.
- No alcoholic beverages on the day of your procedure.
Transportation and support
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from the surgery center.
- Many patients also prefer help getting to their 1-day follow-up visit.
What to bring
- Your yellow-cap combo drop and any other prescribed eye drops.
- Sunglasses to wear home.
- Your ID and insurance card (if applicable).
- A list of your medications and any allergies.
Quick day-of checklist
- Stopped contact lenses as instructed.
- Started yellow-cap combo drops yesterday.
- No fragrance or makeup today.
- Driver arranged for ride home.
- Sunglasses and drops in your bag.
Frequently Asked Questions Before SMILE
Will I be awake during SMILE?
Yes. SMILE is performed with numbing eye drops and sometimes a mild oral sedative. You should feel pressure and see light, but not sharp pain.
Can I drive myself home after SMILE?
No. Even though most people see well the next day, you must have a driver on surgery day. Your surgeon will tell you when it is safe to resume driving.
How long will I be at the surgery center?
Expect to be there for about 1–2 hours, including check-in, pre-op measurements, the procedure itself, and immediate post-op instructions.
What if I have a cold or feel unwell the day of surgery?
Call the office. In many cases, mild cold or allergy symptoms still allow SMILE to proceed, but the team needs to confirm your symptoms and make sure it is safe to go ahead.