LASIK aftercare
Can you play sports after LASIK?
A common misconception is that LASIK requires a lengthy recovery and that sports are off the table afterward. In reality, most people return to work the following day and stay active during their LASIK recovery. Here’s what to expect, and what to steer clear of in the first week.
The timeline
Returning to sports
Every individual’s experience is unique, so consult your eye surgeon for personalized guidance. As a general guide:
Day after surgery
Resume normal activities
You may resume your normal activities as soon as the day after your LASIK procedure. Exercise discretion when returning to sports while your eyes settle.
First week
Play with caution
Avoid getting sweat in your eyes, dusty or dirty environments, objects that could hit your face, and high-pressure activities such as skydiving.
After one week
Back to your normal schedule
Most patients experience significant visual improvement and return to their normal schedule. For contact sports, consider the added precaution of protective goggles.
What to avoid in the first week
Getting sweat in your eyes
Keep sweat away from your eyes while they heal.
Dusty and dirty environments
Steer clear of settings that expose your eyes to dust and dirt.
Objects that may injure your face
Use discretion with any sport where something could strike your face.
High-pressure activities
Such as skydiving.
Every individual’s experience is unique. Consulting your eye surgeon is crucial for guidance based on your specific circumstances. See the full aftercare guide for the complete recovery plan.
Common questions about LASIK recovery
Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and whirlpools for one week. After at least one week you can get back in the water, following your post-op precautions.
Yes, with the right protection. UV-blocking sunglasses, wraparound eyewear in dusty or windy conditions, and a gradual return to bright light all help your eyes heal.
Most eye doctors recommend waiting at least one week. Light tasks like watering may be fine after that; bending, lifting, and dusty work should wait two weeks or more.
Most patients see noticeably better within 24 hours and return to normal activities within a week. Vision continues to sharpen and stabilize over the first 3–6 months as healing completes.
Not in the first 24 hours; arrange a driver for your procedure. Most patients can safely drive the day after surgery once their doctor confirms at the follow-up appointment.
Wait at least one month before rubbing your eyes, and ideally break the habit for good. Rubbing too soon can displace the healing corneal flap.
Light indoor exercise can resume the day after surgery. Add moderate outdoor activity after a few days with protective eyewear, and more demanding activities after one week.
Any sunglasses with full UV protection. Your eyes will be light-sensitive at first, so wear them whenever you’re outdoors during the first weeks.
Foundation and lipstick are fine right away. Wait at least three days before any eye makeup, and check with your eye care professional if you are unsure.