LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is a popular refractive surgery that reshapes the cornea to correct vision problems. The procedure involves creating a delicate corneal flap, which is repositioned after the laser treatment. The immediate post-operative period requires temporary restriction of physical activity to ensure the flap heals securely. Returning to exercise too quickly can compromise this healing process, potentially leading to complications like flap displacement, infection, or irritation. Following a structured recovery plan protects the new vision and allows a safe return to activities.
Resuming Light Activity and Cardio
The quickest return to physical activity involves very light, non-strenuous movements, typically safe within the first 24 to 72 hours after the procedure. This includes gentle walking, stationary cycling at a low resistance, or light stretching that avoids significant bending or straining. The primary goal during this initial phase is to avoid activities that raise the heart rate too high or cause sweat to run into the eyes. Sweat can introduce bacteria and salt to the healing tissue.
As the first week progresses, patients can usually introduce more moderate cardio, such as running on a treadmill or using an elliptical machine, around day three to five. Managing sweat is important during this time, so wearing a clean, moisture-wicking headband is recommended to prevent irritants from reaching the eye. Activities involving an inverted head position, such as certain yoga poses, should be avoided for at least the first week or two. Inverted positions can temporarily increase intraocular pressure, stressing the healing corneal flap.
Light weightlifting can be resumed after about one week, but a cautious approach is required to minimize strain. Patients should focus on using low weights and high repetitions. Avoid any movement that requires breath-holding or excessive straining, such as heavy squats or deadlifts. These actions significantly elevate blood pressure and intraocular pressure, placing stress on the eye’s healing structures. Stop immediately if any activity causes eye discomfort or blurriness.
Timelines for Water-Based Exercise
Water-based activities require longer restrictions due to the risk of infection and chemical irritation they pose to the recovering eye. The corneal flap is susceptible to contamination from water sources, which harbor various microorganisms and debris. Most ophthalmologists recommend avoiding all water immersion, including pools, hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms, for at least two weeks.
Swimming pools contain chemicals that can irritate the eyes, and natural bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and the ocean, present a higher risk of bacterial contamination. These natural sources should be avoided for a minimum of one month. Hot tubs and steam rooms are particularly hazardous because their warm, stagnant water creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth.
Wearing protective goggles is not a sufficient safeguard during the initial healing period. The corneal tissue remains vulnerable to infection from microscopic water particles for several weeks. While goggles should be worn once swimming is permitted, a minimum four-week waiting period is advised before returning to water sports, such as surfing or water skiing, due to the combination of water exposure and potential impact.
Restrictions for High-Impact and Contact Sports
Activities carrying a high risk of direct facial or eye trauma require the longest waiting period to ensure the corneal flap’s integrity. Sports like basketball, soccer, martial arts, boxing, and wrestling involve unpredictable contact and should be avoided for a minimum of one month. A direct blow to the eye in the early recovery phase could potentially dislodge the flap, requiring immediate medical attention.
For other high-impact activities, such as racquet sports like tennis or squash, a four-week minimum restriction is common due to the risk of accidental strikes to the eye. After the initial recovery period, patients involved in these sports should wear protective, shatterproof eyewear for several months. This precaution shields the eye from both trauma and airborne debris.
The most strenuous forms of weightlifting, such as maximal effort deadlifts or heavy overhead pressing, also fall into this high-risk category. These exercises cause significant spikes in intraocular pressure. While light weight training is acceptable earlier, any exercise involving extreme physical straining should be postponed for at least one month. This allows the corneal flap sufficient time to adhere firmly before resuming activities that exert intense pressure.