Unleash Your Inner Athlete: Why You Can (and Should!) Exercise After LASIK

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Are you considering getting LASIK eye surgery but worried about how it will affect your exercise routine? You’re not alone. Many people who lead an active lifestyle have concerns about returning to their workout routine after undergoing LASIK. The good news is that in most cases, exercising after LASIK is perfectly safe and can even improve your visual performance. In this article, we’ll explore the common questions surrounding this topic and provide valuable insights to help you navigate your post-LASIK exercise journey with confidence. So, put on your workout gear and let’s dive in!

Lasik surgery is a popular and effective procedure used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This outpatient procedure involves reshaping the cornea to improve the way light is focused onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. While many people undergo Lasik with great success, it’s normal to have questions and concerns about what you can and cannot do after the surgery. One common question that comes up is whether it’s safe to exercise after Lasik. In this detailed guide, we will answer this question and provide you with all the necessary information you need to know.

Understanding Lasik Surgery

Before diving into whether it’s safe to exercise after Lasik, it’s important to have a basic understanding of what the surgery involves and how it works. The term Lasik stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis and is a two-step surgical procedure. During the first step, a thin flap is created on the cornea using either a blade or laser technology. The flap is then lifted so that an excimer laser can be used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. Once this is done, the flap is carefully put back into place, where it adheres naturally without needing stitches.

Lasik surgery may last anywhere from 10-15 minutes per eye, depending on your specific vision correction needs. It has a high success rate of over 96%, with most patients experiencing improved vision immediately after surgery or within a few days.

The Healing Process

As with any surgical procedure, there is typically a healing process involved after Lasik surgery. Immediately after your procedure, your vision may be blurry or hazy for several hours or days as your eyes heal and adjust to their new shape. Most patients experience improved vision within the first 24 hours, but it may take a few weeks for your vision to stabilize completely.

During this healing period, your doctor will provide you with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to help prevent infection and reduce any discomfort or swelling. You may also be advised to wear protective eyewear such as goggles while sleeping to avoid accidentally rubbing your eyes.

Exercising After Lasik

Now that we have a better understanding of what happens during Lasik surgery and the healing process, let’s dive into whether it’s safe to exercise after the procedure. The answer is both yes and no – it depends on what type of exercise you are planning on doing. Generally, it’s recommended to avoid vigorous exercise for at least a week after surgery, but low-impact activities are usually safe to resume after a few days.

Walking, light jogging, and gentle yoga are generally considered safe activities that can be done shortly after surgery. However, activities such as swimming, weightlifting, and contact sports should be avoided for at least a week or until your doctor gives you the all-clear.

Risks Associated with Exercising Too Soon

It’s essential to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully and avoid exercising too soon after Lasik surgery. Doing so can increase the risk of complications and affect the success of your procedure. Here are some potential risks associated with exercising too soon:

Infection

Exercising too soon after Lasik can increase the risk of infection in the eyes. Sweat contains bacteria that can enter through your eyes if they are not yet fully healed from the surgery. This can lead to an infection in the eye, which can cause discomfort, blurry vision, pain, redness, and even scarring. In extreme cases, it may even require further treatment or possibly impact your final vision results.

Corneal Abrasions

Vigorous exercise that involves a lot of movement or rubbing of the eyes can result in corneal abrasions. These are small scratches on the eye’s surface, which are painful and can lead to discomfort and potentially affect your vision. Rubbing your eyes while they are still healing from Lasik can also dislodge the flap, leading to complications such as an irregular cornea, which can impact your vision.

Increased Eye Pressure

Some exercises, such as weightlifting and intense cardio, can increase blood pressure and cause a temporary rise in eye pressure. This temporary rise in pressure may be dangerous for patients who have a history of glaucoma or high eye pressure. It’s important to speak with your doctor about any pre-existing conditions before resuming exercise after Lasik.

When Can You Resume Exercise After Lasik?

The standard recommendation is to avoid strenuous exercise for at least a week after Lasik surgery. During this time, your eyes will still be healing, and it’s crucial to give them enough time to adjust. After this initial week, you can slowly start incorporating low-impact activities into your routine. If you participate in more vigorous activities such as

The Importance of Exercise After Lasik

After undergoing Lasik surgery, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle and incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine. Exercise has numerous benefits for your overall health, and it is especially crucial after Lasik surgery. Engaging in physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve sleep quality, and boost mood and energy levels.

However, many people who have recently undergone Lasik are apprehensive about exercising as they fear it may harm their eyes or affect their healing process. This concern often stems from misinformation and myths surrounding post-Lasik care. The truth is that exercising after Lasik is not only safe but also beneficial for your eyes and overall well-being.

The Recommended Timeframe for Resuming Exercise

As with any surgical procedure, the healing process varies for each individual. Therefore, it is essential to consult with your eye doctor before resuming any physical activity after Lasik surgery. In most cases, patients are advised to wait at least one week before engaging in any strenuous exercise or activities that may result in sweat dripping into their eyes.

During the first week of recovery, it is crucial to avoid activities that can strain the eyes or increase intraocular pressure. These activities may include weightlifting, running, swimming, contact sports, or anything that involves putting excessive pressure on the eyes. It is also recommended to wear protective eyewear like sunglasses during this period to avoid any potential damage to your eyes.

By following these guidelines and giving your body enough time to heal fully, you can ensure a smooth recovery process without compromising the results of your Lasik surgery.

The Benefits of Exercising After Lasik

As previously mentioned, exercise offers a multitude of benefits for both our physical and mental well-being. After undergoing Lasik surgery specifically, regular exercise can help promote faster healing and improve the overall success of the procedure.

Firstly, exercising promotes blood circulation throughout the body, including the eyes. This increased blood flow delivers essential oxygen and nutrients to our eyes, promoting healing and reducing the chances of any complications. Exercise also helps our immune system function better, aiding in a quick recovery.

Moreover, exercising can alleviate dry eye symptoms that may arise after Lasik surgery. Dry eyes are a common side effect of Lasik and can cause discomfort and irritation. Engaging in regular physical activity can stimulate tear production and keep your eyes lubricated naturally.

Apart from eye-related benefits, exercising can also help improve your mental health after Lasik surgery. The recovery process after any surgery can be physically and emotionally taxing, leading to stress and anxiety. Exercising releases endorphins, also known as “feel-good” hormones that boost mood and reduce stress levels.

The Best Exercises for Post-Lasik Patients

While it is essential to wait for at least a week before resuming any physical activities after Lasik surgery, there are some exercises you can do to promote healing during this period.

Walking is one of the best low-impact exercises you can do during the initial recovery phase. It promotes blood flow but does not involve any strenuous movements that may put pressure on your eyes. Yoga is another low-impact exercise that can help alleviate eye strain and improve focus.

Once you have fully recovered from Lasik surgery, you can gradually return to your regular exercise routine. However, it is vital to avoid high-impact activities such as boxing or kickboxing as they may increase intraocular pressure and pose a risk of eye injury.

Tips for Exercising After Lasik

Although exercising after Lasik has many benefits, it is crucial to take certain precautions while engaging in physical activities to avoid any potential risks. Here are some tips for safe and productive exercising after Lasik surgery:

1. Always consult with your eye doctor before resuming any exercise routine.
2. Wear protective eyewear, such as sunglasses, when exercising outdoors to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
3. Avoid activities that involve direct contact between your eyes and other objects or individuals.
4. Keep yourself hydrated before, during, and after exercising to prevent dry eyes.
5. Avoid rubbing your eyes during and after exercise to avoid any complications.

While recovering from Lasik surgery, it is essential to take care of not only your eyes but also your overall health. Exercising is a crucial aspect of a healthy lifestyle and can promote faster recovery while improving the results of your Lasik procedure. By following the recommended timeframe and precautions mentioned above, you can safely incorporate exercise into your post-Lasik routine and reap its countless benefits for both your physical and mental well-being. Remember to consult with your eye doctor if you have any concerns or questions about exercising after Lasik surgery.

Q: Is it possible for me to engage in physical exercise after getting Lasik eye surgery?

A: Yes, you can resume light exercises such as walking or jogging 24 hours after the surgery. However, activities that involve direct contact or risk of eye injury (such as basketball or swimming) should be avoided for at least a week.

Q: Will exercising after Lasik affect my healing process?

A: Light exercises can actually promote blood circulation and help with the healing process. However, strenuous activities may cause increased eye dryness, which can prolong the recovery period.

Q: Can I wear protective gear, such as goggles, while exercising after Lasik?

A: It is recommended to wait at least a week before wearing any type of protective gear over your eyes to prevent any potential irritation on the fresh incision area.

Q: What if I accidentally rub my eyes while working out?

A: If you accidentally rub your eyes during exercise, stop immediately and refrain from rubbing until your eyes feel normal again. If you experience any discomfort or changes in vision, consult your doctor.

Q: Should I take any precautions during exercise after Lasik?

A: Yes, it is important to avoid excessive sweating and keep sweat away from your eyes to avoid potential infection. It is also recommended to wear sunglasses with UV protection when exercising outdoors to protect your newly corrected vision.

Q: How will my exercise routine be affected in the long term after Lasik?

A: Once fully recovered from Lasik surgery, you can resume all types of physical activities without restrictions. Most patients even report improved performance in sports due to better vision. However, always consult with your doctor before participating in any high-risk activities.

In conclusion, it is generally safe to exercise after Lasik surgery as long as proper precautions are taken. These precautions include avoiding strenuous activities for at least a week, wearing protective eyewear, and properly caring for your eyes during and after exercise.

While mild exercises such as walking or jogging can be resumed within a few days of surgery, vigorous activities such as weightlifting or contact sports should be avoided for at least two weeks. It is also essential to avoid any activities that may cause sweat or water to get into your eyes during the first week of recovery.

Moreover, it is crucial to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. If you experience any discomfort or pain while exercising after Lasik surgery, it is best to stop and consult with your eye doctor.

Overall, exercising after Lasik can have numerous benefits such as reducing the risk of dry eye syndrome and promoting overall eye health. However, it is crucial to follow all post-surgery guidelines provided by your surgeon and listen to your body’s needs.

In summary, Lasik surgery can greatly improve one’s vision and quality of life. By following proper precautions and guidelines, you can safely resume exercise after the procedure and continue leading an active lifestyle with clear vision. We hope this information has provided valuable insights into exercising

Author Profile

Avatar
Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.