LASIK and Athletes

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Because most athletes rely on their eyes to succeed, there has been hesitation in the past for athletes to undergo LASIK vision correction surgery. However, with all of the advances in LASIK technology and years of positive results, more and more athletes are now considering LASIK to improve their eyesight and their overall game.

Why Athletes Opt for LASIK

Without LASIK, an athlete who is nearsighted, farsighted, or has astigmatism must wear contact lenses or prescription eyeglasses. Common problems associated with those options include:

• Contact lenses can fall out or tear
• Dirt and other types of fine debris under contact lenses can irritate the eye
• Low humidity in the air can cause contact lenses to dry out
• Glasses can be knocked off during play
• Glasses can break, with particles getting into a player’s eye
• Glasses can adversely affect peripheral vision

Special Risks for Athletes

There are several LASIK risks that should be factored into any athlete’s decision to undergo the surgery. The most significant consideration is that athletes are at higher risk for eye injury after LASIK surgery, which could lead to complications, such as a reopening of the cornea, infection, and damage to the cornea.

People who play low-impact sports like soccer, baseball, and basketball are considered low-risk patients, since contact with and injury to the eyes is typically minimal.

Higher-risk athletes are those who participate in more aggressive sports, including football, boxing, hockey or martial arts. These athletes should wait several weeks before returning to competition in order to allow their eyes to properly heal.

Ways to Reduce Risks for Athletes

LASIK surgery today can be safe for athletes, especially if you carefully follow your doctor’s advice, including:

• Avoid any sports for at least two weeks after your LASIK surgery
• Consider having the surgery during the off-season of your sport
• Keep your follow-up appointments after surgery

Is LASIK Right for You?

Well-known athletes who have opted for LASIK include:

• Tiger Woods
• Troy Aikman
• Greg Maddox
• Jeff Bagwell
• Bernie Williams

Obviously, not every athlete will be a good candidate for LASIK. If you would like to find out if LASIK is right for you, please contact Hummel Eye Associates today to schedule a consultation at our Oklahoma City, Oklahoma office.