When it starts to rain and the humidity rises, the question arises: is it safe to have vision correction at this time? Specifically, is SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) eye surgery during monsoon a good option?
To answer that question quickly yes, you can safely undergo SMILE during monsoon but there must be more care taken. Let's look at the reasons why, and how to help ensure the best recovery outcome.
Why the Monsoon Season Raises Questions
The monsoon season is characterized by high humidity and frequent rainfall with fluctuating temperatures, and each of these will affect the eye. There is an increased probability of infections like conjunctivitis, styes, or irritation of the cornea during the monsoon season because more moisture allows microbial growth in the eye.
In addition, the frequent switching from a humid outside environment to an air-conditioned inside environment has the potential to create mild discomfort, dryness, or irritation in the eye. This is why many people question if monsoon is the right timing for SMILE!The good news is that the safety of eye surgery, specifically SMILE during monsoon, doesn't actually depend on the weather, but rather by how well you follow hygiene and aftercare guidelines you receive after SMILE.
Advantages of SMILE Eye Surgery During Monsoon
- Less Sun Exposure
The monsoon brings clouds and softer sunlight meaning your healing time will be less glare and UV stress which is small but nice.
- Weather for Recovery
The cooler moist air will feel more comfortable for your eyes than the dry summer weather. In addition, you will be more inside (or even less likely to be outside) so your eyes can get some rest.
- Faster Healing with Minimal Incision
Since SMILE does not require a corneal flap, your surface recovery will be faster along with the risk of postoperative dryness reducing - both a concern during humid months.
- Easier Scheduling
Since elective surgeries are often slowed down during the monsoon, you may find more flexible and earlier consultations and surgery dates available which is a bonus if you are excited to have clearer vision.
Challenges of SMILE Eye Surgery During Monsoon
- Infection Risk
The biggest challenge during the rainy season is exposure to moisture and unclean water. Although SMILE involved a small incision, any exposure to contaminated water (rain or splashes from the tap) can increase the risk of infection.
- Unpredictable Weather
Frequent rain can make traveling difficult following your surgery. After you have had your procedure, the clinic will tell you to avoid stepping outside for a few days. This is especially important during monsoon season when it is rainy or windy.
- Hygiene Problems
Anything that is a towel or pillow cover, or surfaces like a bed, stay moist for longer during a rainy time. This is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. To avoid the risk of infection, it is important to keep your area clean and dry.
- Air Conditioning Indoors
As you move between the cooling moist outside air and the cool, dry AC air indoors, your eyes can feel mildly dry. Utilize the lubricating drops as needed and as prescribed to prevent any further irritation.
Monsoon Tips for SMILE Eye Surgery
- Be Prepared
Avoid scheduling your SMILE procedure when you have travel or outdoor commitments both before and after the procedure. It is best to schedule the procedure when you can take at least a few days off of work.
- Avoid being Out in the Rain
Do not go out when it is raining or plan to go out immediately after it has rained. As little as a light drizzle or splashed water can put bacteria into the eyes. Always wear protective glasses if you need to go outside.
- Practice Rigid Hygiene
Have a good hygiene plan for the process of administering post-op drops or medications. Wash your hands thoroughly before using the drops. Avoid touching your eyes and/or rubbing your eyes during recovery. Use a clean, dry tissue if needed, and do not use someone else's towel if you can avoid it.
- Stay Indoors and Rest
This includes avoiding your screen time, but also bright lights, and simply resting your eyes. The more you can rest your eyes during that first 48 hours, the better you will unwind and the better you will heal.
- Use Medication as Needed
Your prescribed eye drops, such as the antibiotic and lubricating drops, must happen within the prescribed time frame. The drops help to keep the eyes moist and hydrated despite the outside weather being humid.
Keep Appointments
Post-op visits and follow-ups are very important. Your doctor will check to make sure you are healing appropriately and not showing signs of infection.
Why is SMILE Still the Best Option?
Under the proper clinical supervision, SMILE remains one of the safest and most advanced laser vision correction procedures rain or shine. It is advantageous during monsoons because:
- It is a small incision procedure so there is lower risk of exposure to rain during recovery.
- There is no corneal flap procedure, contributing to the overall risk of complications relating to water exposure and air exposure.
- You tend to heal faster and have fewer post-operative appointments than older procedures.
- In essence, the monsoon is not making the procedure unavailable, but it could be seen as a reminder to take post-operative care seriously.
What to Avoid After SMILE During Monsoon
- Do not let rainwater touch your eyes for a minimum of two weeks.
- Avoid swimming or steam rooms.
- Within the first few days of recovery do not drive in heavy rain.
- Avoid eye makeup and beautification or treatment of the face for 1-2 weeks.
- Avoid crowded public places when there is a high risk of infection.
By following these steps you will find you had a smooth recovery without any complications, rain or shine.
Getting SMILE eye surgery during the monsoon is completely acceptable and safe when performed at a boutique eye hospital with high-tech laser equipment and a strong postoperative care protocol.
Hygiene, regular medications, and avoiding rain or contamination until your eyes are healed, are the only differences that the rainy season would make about getting this procedure done safely.
When you are waiting for the right rainy day to have freedom from glasses, a rainy monsoon day may be the perfect opportunity if you are ready and follow the physician's instructions.
For an eye consultation and high sophistication and safety during SMILE eye surgery, visit The Eye Foundation and book an appointment today to take the first step towards clear confident vision.
