5 Essential Surgery Day Rules for LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE Patients

Bgn admin

2026.09.30

5 Essential Surgery Day Rules for LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE Patients

A Must-Read Guide directly from a Surgical Nurse for a Safe and Comfortable Procedure

Hello from BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil Lotte Tower.

Peak summer break is our busiest season, during which we often perform up to 80 procedures a day. Naturally, we hear similar questions from anxious patients every day, such as "Can I blink during surgery?" or "What happens if I accidentally move?"

While the procedure itself takes only 10 to 15 minutes with actual laser delivery lasting under a minute, focusing during this brief window is critical for achieving optimal visual outcomes. Here are 5 vital instructions every patient must remember on surgery day.

1. Keep Your Eyes Still and Fixate on the Target Light

Blinking or shifting your gaze during SMILE surgery can cause the laser to pause. The single most important rule is to keep your eye steady. Advanced laser systems react to even microscopic eye movements. In SMILE procedures specifically, moving your eye mid-operation may require adjusting the planned surgical technique. Always maintain total focus on the target light as directed.

2. Follow Verbal Cues from the Medical Team Promptly

Prompts such as "Look at the light" or "Keep your gaze fixed" are repeated continuously to synchronize the laser system with your focus rhythm. As a surgical technician, I stay in constant communication with you, offering updates like "Keep focusing on the light" or "You will feel slight pressure now." Hearing what to expect prevents surprise when physical contact occurs, helping reduce anxiety and ensuring precise laser timing.

3. Speak Up Immediately If You Feel Overwhelmed

If thoughts like "I'm feeling too anxious" or "I can't keep my eye open anymore" cross your mind, do not hold back. While full conversations are restricted during active laser delivery due to machine timing, addressing patient anxiety remains our top priority. If you feel panic rising, raise your hand slightly or speak up to alert the team immediately.

4. Never Rub Your Eyes After Surgery

Immediate recovery begins the moment your procedure finishes. The first few hours after returning home represent the most critical golden window for proper corneal healing.

Post-Op Care Rules to Follow at Home:

  • Never rub your eyes: Rubbing can dislodge or irritate delicate corneal tissue.
  • Instill artificial tears frequently: Keeps the ocular surface hydrated and aids healing.
  • Minimize digital screen use: Reduces eye strain and prevents severe dryness.
  • Apply prescribed eye drops strictly on schedule: Prevents infection and controls inflammation.

5. Relax! Our Safety Systems Are Built for Unexpected Shifts

Patients occasionally worry about making mistakes during surgery. Please rest assured that laser systems feature built-in auto-stop safety tracking, backed by swift safety protocols between the surgeon and technicians. You do not need to carry the pressure of performing perfectly. Detecting and adjusting for subtle eye flinches or gaze shifts is our job. Your only role is to lie back comfortably and follow our guided instructions.

Meticulous, Personalized Care Even During Peak Seasons

Even when performing up to 80 procedures daily during peak periods, our surgical team operates with utmost focus. From attending surgeons to surgical technicians, every team member executes their role with zero-error precision. If you feel nervous or tense at any point, let us know right away. We are dedicated to ensuring your procedure is completely safe and seamless.

Preparing for Vision Correction Surgery?

Consult with the specialists at BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil Lotte Tower to ease your pre-op concerns and enjoy a safe journey to clear vision.

BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil Lotte Tower | Supporting your journey to clear vision.

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