How Soon Can I Go Running After Lasik Eye Surgery?

Engaging in a moderate amount of running is okay 2 days after the LASIK procedure. Make sure to use sunglasses and avoid any hand contact to your eyes. Use a head cap or band to prevent sweat from getting into your eyes. The impact from running does not affect the LASIK procedure or the eye in relation to LASIK.

It is important to remember that while LASIK is associated with a rapid visual recovery it is still a surgical procedure that requires the healing of tissues. It takes about 6 months for the LASIK flap to reintegrate into the cornea strongly enough that it is difficult to lift or dislodge. However everyday after the procedure the flap adhesion strengthens. We recommend our patients sleep with a shield for the first week after surgery and wear protective eyewear (sun or clear) to avoid rubbing the eyes. A month after surgery the flap is extremely unlikely to be dislodged. A week out after the procedure it I believe it is safe enough to jog if protective eyewear is in place.

Most people can go running a week after LASIK. Your surgeon will see you one week post-op and at that time he should be able to tell you for certain, but be careful even one week after surgery. It is best to approach exercise with caution for at least a month after surgery.