Eye Health, News, Safety, Surgery

LASIK is one of the most popular surgeries worldwide, with over 30 million procedures performed. One of the reasons for its popularity is its quick recovery, with most patients able to drive and return to work within 48 hours of surgery, if not sooner. But what about physical activity? When can I exercise after LASIK? This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how long you should wait to exercise after LASIK and what precautions you should take to ensure a smooth recovery.

Group fitness class engaging in light exercise after LASIK surgery, emphasizing safe indoor workouts post-surgery in Wayne, PA

Immediate Post-Surgery Period

The first 24 to 48 hours after LASIK surgery are crucial for your recovery. During this time, your eyes are particularly sensitive, and it’s essential to avoid any activities that could strain them. This includes not only exercise but also activities like reading, watching TV, or using a computer for extended periods. Walking and gentle stretching are OK during this time.

Light Exercise: Days 3-6 Post-Surgery

After the initial 48-hour period, you can start incorporating light exercise into your routine. Activities such as jogging or yoga are generally safe. However, be careful not to let sweat drip into your eyes, as it can cause irritation and impede your healing. Contact sports such as football, basketball, tennis, and soccer should be avoided during this time to prevent inadvertent injury to your eye during the first week of healing.

Pennsylvania swimmer practicing exercise after LASIK surgery underwater in a pool, demonstrating safe activity options post-LASIK recovery

Moderate Exercise: 1 Week Post-Surgery

By the end of the first week, most patients can resume routine exercise, including running, cycling, or using an elliptical machine. It is recommended to wear protective eyewear to prevent any accidental bumps or exposure to dust and debris. If you exercise outdoors, consider wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays and wind.

Strenuous activities, such as weightlifting, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and contact sports, should be avoided for at least one week after LASIK surgery. These activities can increase the risk of eye injury or strain, potentially compromising your recovery. If you’re eager to resume high-intensity exercises, consult your eye surgeon for personalized advice based on your healing progress.

Swimming and Water Activities: 2 Weeks Post-Surgery

Swimming and other water activities pose a unique risk after LASIK surgery due to the potential for waterborne bacteria to cause infections. It’s generally recommended to avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of water for at least two weeks post-surgery. If you must swim, make sure to wear watertight goggles to protect your eyes.

Yoga and Pilates: Special Considerations

Yoga and Pilates are popular exercises that involve various poses and movements. While gentle yoga and Pilates can be resumed about a week after surgery, it’s essential to avoid any inverted poses or positions that put pressure on your eyes. Stick to gentle, restorative practices and gradually reintroduce more challenging poses as your eyes heal.

Tips for a Safe Recovery

Yoga class doing stretches as part of gentle exercise after LASIK surgery, suitable for recovery-friendly activities in Wayne, PA
  • Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: Your eye surgeon will provide specific guidelines tailored to your individual recovery. Always follow their advice and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.
  • Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your eyes feel during and after exercise. Stop exercising and consult your doctor immediately if you experience any discomfort, redness, or vision changes.
  • Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for overall health and can help support your recovery. Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re engaging in physical activity.
  • Protect Your Eyes: Always wear protective eyewear during exercise to shield your eyes from potential hazards. This is especially important for outdoor activities and contact sports.
  • Gradual Progression: Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as your eyes heal. Avoid jumping back into your pre-surgery routine too quickly to prevent complications.
  • Avoid Eye Rubbing: Many of us unknowingly rub our eyes during exercise, whether due to sweat, allergens, or fatigue. However, eye rubbing should be strictly avoided in the first month after LASIK to allow for proper healing. Check out our previous blog post to learn more about the dangers of eye rubbing.

SMILE and PRK

The advice in this post is tailored towards LASIK patients. If you have SMILE or PRK instead of LASIK, your surgeon may provide slightly different exercise and recovery recommendations. Most SMILE patients can return to contact sports and high-intensity training earlier than LASIK patients because there is no flap. PRK patients will want to wait until their epithelium is completely healed before engaging in moderate exercise, usually occurring between four and seven days after surgery.

Conclusion

Resuming exercise after LASIK surgery requires careful planning and patience. By following the guidelines outlined in this post and consulting with your eye surgeon, you can safely return to your fitness routine without compromising your recovery. Remember, the key to a successful recovery is to listen to your body and take things slow. Your eyes will thank you for it!

If you have any specific concerns or questions about your post-LASIK exercise routine, don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon for personalized advice.

Are you considering ditching your contacts and glasses, or do you want to know more about LASIK, SMILE, or PRK? Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Corsini to learn all about your personalized options for a clearer life.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan Corsini, MD