Swimming After Cataract Surgery | Louisiana Eye & Laser Center (2024)

FAQs

When can I swim after laser cataract surgery? ›

Patients will be allowed to swim again while wearing goggles approximately 2 weeks after their cataract surgery. Patients can return to swimming without goggles approximately 4 weeks after the cataract surgery. If your surgeon advises waiting longer, be sure to heed their instructions to prevent complications.

You are more likely to pick up an eye infection swimming in a public pool. It is generally advised that swimming should be avoided for at least 2 weeks following Laser eye surgery. Most surgeons will probably suggest that when you do start swimming, you should wear goggles for up to 6 weeks post-surgery.

Do not bend over or do any strenuous activities, such as biking, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, for 2 weeks or until your doctor says it is okay. Avoid swimming, hot tubs, gardening, and dusting for 1 to 2 weeks. Wear sunglasses on bright days for at least 1 year after surgery.

Also, scabs around the incision sites can remain for about eight weeks, so if you still have scabbing, wait before jumping in the water. Additionally, swimming before the 6-8 week waiting period is up can cause your blood pressure to rise, and in rare cases, that can lead to internal bleeding.

Avoid anything that involves chlorine (e.g. swimming) for 48 hours. Avoid make-up on the treated area for at least 48 hours. Avoid the application of perfumed products or bleaching creams for 48 hours. Avoid scratching the treatment area if blistering or crusting occurs, as this can cause scarring.

You may shower after your surgery, making sure to prevent any water or soap from getting in your eyes, especially within the first week after treatment. If you require eye drops, make sure to wash and dry your hands thoroughly, avoiding any tap water from making contact with your eyes.

You can expect your eye to get better each day, but it may feel dry for 1 to 3 months after surgery. Over-the-counter or prescription eyedrops can help with dryness. For some people, it takes 3 to 6 months to get the full benefits of surgery and to see as clearly as possible.

Wear the eye shield/goggles the doctor gave you while you sleep for the first week. Keep tap water out of your eyes for at least a week. Avoid pools, whirlpools, saunas, and lakes for at least 3 weeks. No eye makeup for at least a week.

The chlorinated water can dry the eyes out and lead to irritation. Hot Tubs– Avoid hot tubs for about 2 weeks after LASIK. Oceans/Lakes- Ocean and lake water may contain pathogens, leading to a slightly higher risk of infection after LASIK. Give yourself at least 2+ weeks before swimming in oceans, lakes, or rivers.

Complete healing usually takes around 8 weeks. Here are some precautions to follow in the first week after surgery to avoid infection or eye injury: Don't drive on the first day of recovery. Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous activities.

What are the negatives of laser cataract surgery? ›

There are very few disadvantages to laser assisted cataract surgery. But any procedure in life has some disadvantages. The largest disadvantage is the cost of the procedure. The lasers we use are highly sophisticated advanced computing machines with complex imaging systems along with complex laser energy delivery.

Cataract surgery can restore vision, but you'll need to avoid certain activities after cataract surgery, such as washing your hair, lifting heavy objects, and bending over. Restrictions after cataract surgery help prevent complications like increased eye pressure, movement of the new lens, bleeding, and infection.

Swimming after cataract surgery is probably one of the more important activities to avoid while recovering from cataract surgery. It is suggested that you wait four weeks to swim – whether in a pool, lake, ocean, or hot tub.

Usually, this happens after a week or two, but it can take longer—especially if they are dissolvable sutures. Once the tape comes off or the stitches have dissolved, you will need to wait until your incision has completely closed.

It's great to know that pool walking can also offer additional recovery benefits like increased blood flow and lymphatic drainage.

You also should completely forego any trips to a pool or hot tub for two weeks. Chlorine can be dangerous for your eye even when you're not recovering from cataract surgery. Don't risk getting in a pool or hot tub, even if you keep your head above water!

Your surgery should not come at the expense of your hygiene, however you should avoid exposing your eye to direct water contact for at least a week. You can resume washing your face the day after your surgery while being careful to not touch your eye.

It's advised that you wait four to six weeks for your eye to settle down before having an eye test for a new pair of glasses. If you wear very strong glasses, you may need to wait until you've had your other eye operated on to balance your vision.