Recovery after LASIK eye surgery is typically pretty fast, with most patients able to drive and resume everyday activities the day after surgery. However, there are still some restrictions that you should keep in mind in order to promote optimal healing. Athletic activities can be resumed anywhere from two days to a month after LASIK, depending on the type of activity and your individual healing progression.
If you are interested in LASIK vision correction, don’t hesitate to contact Northeastern Eye Institute today at 855-204-6888 to schedule your free consultation.
Jogging, Swimming, and Contact Sports After LASIK
After having LASIK performed, you’ll need to wait a couple days before resuming any type of physical activity. After that, you can gradually start resuming athletic activities. In general, you can return to:
- Jogging: Two or three days after your surgery.
- Swimming: At least a week after surgery, and make sure not to open your eyes underwater.
- Contact sports: A month after LASIK, as long as you wear protective eyewear.
Protecting your eyes is of the utmost importance after your LASIK vision surgery. While it should be fine to start jogging a few days after your procedure, you should take care not to let sweat or debris get into your eyes. Wear a sweatband, and if jogging outside, wear sunglasses and don’t jog in high winds.
It’s also important not to let water get into your eyes in the first few days after surgery. Wait at least a week before swimming, and check with your surgeon that it’s okay to do so first. Your first few days after LASIK, you should avoid showering above the neck.
Contact sports involve a risk of eye injury, so you’ll need to take a longer break from your local basketball or football league. When you do resume contact sports, invest in a pair of good sports goggles to protect your eyes.
LASIK Recovery Is Different For Everyone
The above guidelines are just that – guidelines. Each person will heal a little differently, so it is important to check with your surgeon before resuming any kind of activity that may delay or complicate your recovery.
Some other general guidelines to follow after your LASIK surgery include:
- Don’t rub your eyes
- Use eye drops regularly to prevent dry eyes
- Follow your surgeon’s specific instructions
- Call your surgeon immediately if you experience any complications
- Avoid straining your eyes
In general, LASIK recovery is quite easy and most people experience better vision very quickly. There may be a few side effects such as haloes or glares at night, but these typically resolve within the first few months.
The majority of LASIK patients find that their quality of life improves after they no longer need to rely on glasses and contacts every day. The only regret that many patients have is that they didn’t have the procedure done sooner.
Schedule Your Free LASIK Consultation
If you are ready to take the first step towards great vision, call Northeastern Eye Institute today at 855-204-6888 to schedule your free consultation. We serve patients in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazelton, and surrounding areas of northeastern Pennsylvania.