You can go outside after LASIK, but it’s essential to take special precautions, especially during the first week of your recovery.
Your eyes are more sensitive and vulnerable after surgery, so protecting them from sunlight, wind, dust, and other irritants is crucial for safe and comfortable healing.
If you’re wondering when and how you can safely enjoy the outdoors after LASIK, this guide will walk you through the timeline, protective measures, and expert tips to keep your eyes healthy as you recover.
Why Caution Is Important After LASIK?
LASIK reshapes your cornea to correct vision, but the healing process leaves your eyes more exposed to environmental risks.
In the first days after surgery, your eyes are especially prone to dryness, irritation, and infection. Sunlight, wind, dust, and pollutants can all disrupt healing or cause discomfort if you’re not careful.
When Can You Go Outside After LASIK?
The First 24 Hours: Stay Indoors
- Avoid going outside during the first 24 hours after LASIK.
- Your eyes are at their most sensitive and need protection from light, wind, and airborne irritants.
- Rest in a clean, dimly lit room and use your prescribed eye drops as directed.
Days 2–3: Limited, Protected Outdoor Exposure
- Brief trips outside may be allowed after the first day, but only with protective sunglasses.
- Avoid direct sunlight, windy conditions, and dusty or polluted areas.
- Keep outdoor time short and return indoors if your eyes feel uncomfortable.
First Week: Gradual Increase, Still Cautious
- Limit outdoor activities and avoid environments that could expose your eyes to dust, smoke, or allergens.
- No swimming, hot tubs, or strenuous outdoor exercise.
- Always wear high-quality sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays when outside.
After One Week: Most Activities Resume
- Most patients can return to normal outdoor routines after a week, with continued eye protection.
- You should still avoid high-risk environments and continue using sunglasses and lubricating drops as needed.
After One Month: Most Healing Complete
- By one month, your eyes are usually well healed, and you can return to all normal activities.
- Continue to protect your eyes from UV rays for long-term health.
Essential Precautions for Going Outside After LASIK
Wear Sunglasses—Always
- Choose wrap-around sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays.
- Sunglasses protect against sunlight, wind, and airborne particles.
- A wide-brimmed hat can offer extra shade and comfort.
Avoid Dusty, Polluted, or Smoky Environments
- Dust, smoke, and pollution can irritate healing eyes and increase infection risk.
- Postpone yard work, construction sites, bonfires, or busy city streets until your doctor says it’s safe.
Use Lubricating Eye Drops
- Keep your eyes moist with artificial tears, especially if you feel dryness or irritation.
- Use only the drops prescribed or recommended by your surgeon.
Don’t Rub or Touch Your Eyes
- Even if your eyes itch or feel gritty, avoid rubbing them to prevent infection or flap displacement.
- If you get something in your eye, use artificial tears to rinse it out gently.
Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water to support healthy tear production and overall healing.
Tips for Outdoor Eye Care During LASIK Recovery
- Wear sunglasses even on cloudy days—UV rays can penetrate clouds.
- Take breaks indoors if your eyes feel tired or irritated.
- Avoid outdoor sports, running, or cycling until your doctor clears you.
- If you must be outside in windy or dry conditions, keep trips brief and use extra lubricating drops.
Activities to Avoid Outdoors After LASIK
- Swimming in pools, lakes, or the ocean (for at least 2 weeks)
- Hot tubs and saunas (for at least 2 weeks)
- High-impact sports or activities that risk eye injury (until cleared by your surgeon)
- Environments with flying debris, blowing sand, or high pollen counts (during the first week)
How to Make Outdoor Time Safer After LASIK?
Plan Your Outings
- Choose times of day when sunlight is less intense, such as early morning or late afternoon.
- Avoid windy days or days with high pollen or pollution levels.
Prepare Ahead
- Bring lubricating drops and sunglasses with you whenever you leave the house.
- If you’re going to be outdoors for a while, take breaks indoors to rest your eyes.
Listen to Your Eyes
- If you notice increased dryness, irritation, or sensitivity, head indoors and use your eye drops.
- Don’t push through discomfort—your eyes are still healing.
When Can You Drive After LASIK?
- Most people can drive within a day or two, but only after your doctor confirms your vision is clear and stable.
- Always wear sunglasses while driving during recovery, as glare and light sensitivity are common.
What If You Forget to Wear Sunglasses Outside?
- If you forget, go indoors as soon as possible and use lubricating drops if your eyes feel dry or irritated.
- Resume using sunglasses for all future outings to avoid discomfort and protect your healing eyes.
Signs You Should Watch For After Going Outside
- Increased redness, pain, or light sensitivity
- Sudden change in vision
- Persistent dryness or discomfort
If you experience any of these symptoms, reach out to your surgeon right away for guidance.
Timeline for Resuming Outdoor Activities After LASIK
| Timeframe | Outdoor Activity Guidelines |
| First 24 hours | Stay indoors, rest, avoid all outdoor exposure |
| Days 2–3 | Brief, protected outings with sunglasses |
| First week | Limit time outside, avoid dust, wind, and pollutants |
| After 1 week | Resume most outdoor activities with eye protection |
| After 1 month | Full outdoor activity—continue UV protection |
Moving Forward: Enjoying the Outdoors After LASIK
You can go outside after LASIK, but timing and protection are everything. Stay indoors the first day, use sunglasses and lubricating drops, and avoid risky environments for at least a week. With the right precautions, you’ll enjoy clearer vision and a quick, comfortable recovery. If you have questions or concerns about outdoor activities after LASIK, talk to your eye surgeon—they’ll tailor advice for your unique healing process.
Remember: Your eyes are healing, and a little extra care goes a long way. With patience and protection, you’ll be back to enjoying the outdoors with clear, comfortable vision in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go for a walk outside after LASIK?
Yes, after the first 24 hours, you can take short walks outdoors with sunglasses. Avoid dusty or windy areas and keep walks brief in your first week.
When can I start exercising outdoors again?
Light walking is fine after a few days, but avoid running, cycling, or contact sports until your doctor clears you, usually after 1–2 weeks.
Can I travel or go on vacation after LASIK?
Most people can travel after a few days to a week, as long as a post-op check has been completed. Bring all your prescribed eye drops, sunglasses, and follow your care instructions. Avoid swimming, dusty environments, and strenuous activities until cleared by your surgeon.
How long should I keep using sunglasses after LASIK?
Wear sunglasses outdoors for at least a week after surgery. It’s smart to make it a long-term habit to protect your eyes from UV damage