When can I wear circle lenses after SMILE LASIK?

Hello, this is Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic😊

Today, we will address one of the most frequently asked questions by visitors to our clinic:

‘Can I wear circle lenses after LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE LASIK?

If so, when can I start wearing them?’

Let's take some time to find out!

Circle lenses are a popular cosmetic item among both students and adults, as they make the iris appear larger and add color and pattern to make our eyes look a little more defined.

Therefore, those who regularly wear circle or colored lenses are often reluctant to give them up even after vision correction surgery, and are very curious about whether they can wear them, and if so, how soon after the procedure.

Q1. Can I wear circle lenses after LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE LASIK?

Yes, it is possible to wear circle lenses even after vision correction surgeries like LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE LASIK.

However, because the cornea has already experienced some damage and irritation due to the vision correction surgery, there is a higher chance of causing inflammation, so we do not recommend it.

Furthermore, LASIK and LASEK are surgeries that involve ablating the cornea with a laser, which changes the cornea's curvature to a flatter shape than a typical cornea.

When wearing circle lenses that are designed for a typical curvature, this can cause discomfort due to a poor fit.

Q2. How soon can I wear circle lenses after LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE LASIK?

After SMILE LASIK, cosmetic lenses can be worn after a minimum of one month.

In the case of LASIK or LASEK, because the incision and removal area of the cornea are larger compared to SMILE LASIK,

they can be worn after a minimum of 3-6 months.

However, this can vary depending on each patient's individual characteristics and recovery speed,

so it is highly recommended to consult with a specialist before wearing them.

Even if you have fully recovered, if you experience any adverse signs such as eye redness or pain, you should refrain from wearing them.

Q3. What are the rules for wearing circle lenses after vision correction surgery?

Even if your eyes have fully recovered after vision correction surgery,

wearing them for long periods is not good for your eyes.

It is best to wear them only occasionally on very important days, after ensuring thorough hygiene.

Cosmetic lenses, or circle lenses, have a layer of pigment dye over a regular clear lens, which results in very low oxygen permeability.

Therefore, there is a higher risk of dry eyes, foreign bodies in the lens, and bacterial growth,

which can lead to conditions such as keratitis or ulcers.

You must be aware of this fact and exercise caution when wearing them.

Q4. If I wear circle lenses a lot, does it mean I can't get LASIK or LASEK?

The answer is,

there are cases where it is possible,

and cases where it is not.

If you wear circle lenses for a long time, severe dryness and redness can lead to conditions such as keratitis or corneal ulcers.

In cases of relatively mild side effects like dry eyes or conjunctivitis, surgery is usually possible after giving the eyes a period of rest.

However, after experiencing more severe conditions like keratitis or corneal ulcers, as mentioned earlier, corneal opacities or scars may remain,

which can prevent the SMILE LASIK laser from penetrating.

In such cases, LASEK surgery may be performed, but if new blood vessels grow severely into the inner cornea,

surgery may become impossible.

In severe cases, both lens wear and vision correction surgery may become impossible, and you might have to rely on glasses for the rest of your life.

Therefore, it is essential to adhere to contact lens care guidelines,

and we recommend visiting an ophthalmologist for a check-up every six months.

If you have more questions about your eyes and vision correction surgery,

please check out the 'Omniscient SMILE View - Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic' channel on YouTube

and watch the video below :)

Our Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic

is equipped with the latest technology and a systematic examination system,

providing personalized 1:1 consultations and sincere care for each patient during surgery.

We also always prioritize the patient, focusing on transparency and safety.

If you have any other inquiries,

please feel free to contact the eye clinic at any time.

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