LASIK surgery is a widely performed procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct vision and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. While the surgery is quick, successful outcomes rely heavily on disciplined post-operative care. Understanding the appropriate timeline for resuming activities is paramount to ensure the corneal tissue heals correctly and to prevent complications like infection or flap displacement.
The Critical First 48 Hours
The first two days following LASIK are the most vulnerable period for the healing eye. Prioritize rest and minimize any risk of trauma to the corneal flap. It is crucial to avoid rubbing the eyes completely, as this action could dislodge the flap, necessitating an immediate corrective procedure.
Patients are typically required to wear protective shields or goggles, especially when sleeping, for at least the first night, and often for up to a week, to prevent inadvertent contact. Showering is permitted, but great care must be taken to prevent direct spray, soap, or shampoo from entering the eyes, which can cause irritation or introduce contaminants. Many surgeons recommend taking baths or washing hair by tilting the head back to avoid getting water near the face during the first week.
Mandatory rest is strongly advised, with surgeons recommending keeping the eyes closed as much as possible for the first few hours to facilitate initial healing. A regimen of prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops must be strictly followed to prevent infection and manage inflammation. While mild discomfort, tearing, or light sensitivity may occur, non-prescription pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are generally sufficient.
Resuming Daily Routines and Light Exercise
After the initial 48-hour period, most patients can begin to reintroduce activities of daily living within the first week. Driving is often permitted within 24 to 48 hours, provided the patient’s vision is stable and clear enough to operate a vehicle safely. However, temporary night vision issues, such as halos or glare, may require waiting a few extra days before driving after dark.
Returning to work, especially office or screen-based employment, is generally possible within one to three days. For computer use, regular breaks and frequent application of lubricating eye drops are recommended to combat dry eye symptoms caused by a reduced blink rate during screen concentration. Reading and watching television can also be resumed, but ensure the eyes stay moist and take breaks before they become strained.
Eye makeup, such as mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow, should be avoided for about one to two weeks due to the high risk of bacterial contamination and irritating particles entering the eye. It is prudent to discard and replace any existing eye makeup to eliminate the risk of transferring bacteria from old products. Light, non-sweat-inducing exercise, like walking or using a stationary bike, can typically be resumed after 24 hours to three days. The main precaution is to avoid sweat running into the eyes, which can be accomplished by wearing a sweatband.
When to Reintroduce Water and High-Impact Activities
Activities involving water or a high risk of eye trauma require significantly longer waiting periods to protect the healing cornea. Swimming in chlorinated pools, oceans, lakes, or using hot tubs must be avoided for at least one to two weeks, and often three to four weeks, due to the risk of infection and irritation from chemicals. Natural bodies of water, which carry a higher concentration of potential pathogens, often require a waiting period of at least two weeks.
When cleared to return to swimming, protective goggles should be worn for at least one month to shield the eyes. Activities that generate dust, such as gardening, woodworking, or construction, also pose a significant contamination risk and should be postponed for at least one week. For contact sports like basketball, martial arts, or football, the waiting period is typically four weeks, with some recommendations extending to three months, to prevent a direct blow that could displace the corneal flap.
Strenuous, sweat-inducing exercise and heavy weightlifting can generally be resumed after one to two weeks. Extreme sports or activities that involve high pressure changes or significant risk of impact, such as scuba diving or skydiving, may require a waiting period of up to three months. Always follow the specific, individualized timeline provided by the operating surgeon.