How long after LASIK can I go swimming?

If you’ve just had LASIK, or you’re planning to, chances are you’re wondering when you can get back to doing the things you love—like swimming. Whether it's a holiday dip in the pool or a regular swim at your local gym, it’s important to know when it’s safe to return to the water.

At Elite LASIK & Cataract, we want you to enjoy life without glasses or contacts—but we also want your recovery to go smoothly. So let’s talk about swimming after LASIK.

Why does swimming need to wait?

Even though LASIK is a fast, safe, and effective procedure, your eyes still need time to heal.

After LASIK, your cornea goes through a healing process. During this time, your eyes are more vulnerable to irritation and infection—especially from water.

Water (whether from a pool, ocean, hot tub, or lake) can carry bacteria or other contaminants that may lead to complications. Chlorine and salt can also dry out or irritate your eyes.

The general rule: wait 2 weeks

We usually recommend waiting at least two weeks before getting your face wet in a pool or open water.

For light splashing (e.g., in a shower), you can start sooner—after a few days—as long as you avoid rubbing your eyes.
For full submersion (e.g., swimming laps), wait until at least two weeks have passed.
For hot tubs or saunas, wait even longer—closer to four weeks.

Of course, everyone heals at their own pace. At your follow-up visits, we’ll let you know if it’s safe for you to resume swimming sooner or later than average.

Pools vs. oceans vs. lakes

Not all water is equal when it comes to post-LASIK recovery:

Swimming pools: Chlorine can dry out your eyes and irritate healing tissue. Wait at least 2 weeks.
Hot tubs: Warm water = more bacteria. Best to wait 3–4 weeks.
Lakes and rivers: Natural water is unpredictable. Bacteria and parasites can be present even if it looks clean. Wait 3–4 weeks.
Ocean: Saltwater can sting. Give your eyes at least 2–3 weeks before diving in.

Always wear goggles if you’re getting in the water during your early recovery weeks.

Can I wear goggles?

Yes! Once we say it’s okay to swim, goggles are your best friend. They reduce the risk of water exposure and protect your eyes from irritation.

Make sure they’re clean, fit snugly, and ideally, leak-proof.

What about contacts while swimming?

If you’ve had LASIK, you probably don’t need contact lenses anymore—but just in case you’re still wearing them temporarily (e.g., if you're waiting for LASIK in one eye), don’t wear contacts in the water. It increases your risk of infection.

Tips for swimmers after LASIK:

Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially after swimming
Use lubricating drops to keep eyes moist if they feel dry
Wear UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors, including at the beach or pool
Attend your follow-up appointments so we can monitor your healing

Bottom line?

You can swim after LASIK—but give it time. Most people are back in the water within 2–4 weeks.

We’ll give you personalised guidance based on your healing progress. That way, you’ll know exactly when it’s safe to dive in.