Exercise and Physical Activity After Eye Surgery

Recovering from eye surgery often raises questions about daily movement and exercise. Many people worry about doing too much too soon, while others are unsure whether complete rest is necessary. Understanding how physical activity affects healing can help you protect your eyes, feel more confident during recovery, and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

This article offers general, evidence-based guidance on exercise and physical activity after eye surgery. It is for informational purposes only and does not replace advice from your ophthalmologist or healthcare provider.

Why physical activity requires care after eye surgery
Physical activity plays an important role in overall health, including circulation, muscle strength, and emotional wellbeing. However, after eye surgery, certain movements can temporarily increase pressure inside the eye or place strain on healing tissues.

According to organisations such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, most post-operative restrictions are designed to reduce the risk of increased intraocular pressure, inflammation, or accidental injury during the early healing phase.

The key is not to avoid movement entirely, but to choose the right type of activity at the right time.

Activities commonly advised to avoid early on
In the first days and weeks after eye surgery, doctors often recommend avoiding activities that involve heavy exertion, sudden movements, or bending forward for prolonged periods.

These commonly include:

• Heavy lifting or strength training

• High-impact exercise such as running or jumping

• Activities that involve straining, breath-holding, or forceful effort

• Swimming or hot tubs, due to infection risk

• Contact sports or activities with a risk of eye impact

Research published in ophthalmology journals shows that activities involving straining or inverted positions can temporarily raise intraocular pressure, which may interfere with healing, particularly after cataract, glaucoma, or retinal procedures.

Your surgeon will usually give personalised guidance based on the type of surgery performed and your individual recovery.

Gentle movement that is often encouraged
Complete inactivity is rarely necessary. In fact, gentle movement is often encouraged to support circulation, comfort, and general wellbeing.

Activities that are commonly considered safe for many people, with medical approval, include:

• Short, relaxed walks

• Light household movement without bending or lifting

• Gentle stretching that keeps the head upright

• Basic mobility exercises

Walking, in particular, is frequently recommended by eye care professionals because it supports cardiovascular health without placing strain on the eyes.

The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK often advises gradual return to light activity while avoiding anything that causes discomfort, pressure, or visual disturbance.

Returning to regular exercise
The timeline for resuming normal exercise varies depending on the type of eye surgery, individual healing, and any underlying eye conditions.

General guidance from ophthalmology associations suggests:

• Light activity may be resumed within days, if approved

• Moderate exercise may return after one to two weeks

• Strenuous exercise may require several weeks or longer

Importantly, any activity that causes pain, increased redness, blurred vision, or pressure sensations should be stopped, and medical advice should be sought.

Your follow-up appointments are the best time to ask when and how to safely increase activity levels.

Everyday movements matter too
Exercise is not the only form of physical strain. Everyday movements such as bending to tie shoes, lifting shopping bags, or cleaning can also place pressure on the eyes if done incorrectly.

Many post-operative care guides recommend:

• Bending at the knees instead of the waist

• Avoiding sudden head movements

• Being mindful during chores and daily routines

Small adjustments can significantly reduce unnecessary strain during recovery.

Listening to your body and your doctor
While general guidance is helpful, eye surgery recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Factors such as age, overall health, type of procedure, and healing response all matter.

The American Optometric Association and similar bodies consistently emphasise that patients should follow their surgeon’s specific instructions above any general advice.

If you are unsure whether an activity is appropriate, it is always safest to ask before resuming it.

Supporting recovery beyond exercise
Exercise is just one part of post-operative care. Adequate rest, proper eye protection, correct use of prescribed eye drops, and minimising strain from screens or bright light all work together to support healing.

Creating an environment that reduces physical and visual stress can make recovery more comfortable and help you return to normal routines with confidence.

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Note: This content is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice.