When can I exercise after lens replacement surgery?

After lens replacement surgery, most people are keen to get back to their normal routine—including exercise. Whether you’re a daily walker, a gym lover, or a weekend tennis player, it’s natural to wonder:
"When can I exercise again after lens replacement surgery?"

The good news is that most people are up and about quickly. But not all activities are safe right away. In this blog, we’ll walk you through when you can return to different types of exercise—and how to do it safely while your eyes heal.

What is lens replacement surgery?

Lens replacement surgery (also known as refractive lens exchange) is a safe and effective procedure that replaces your natural lens with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

It’s typically done to correct age-related vision changes like presbyopia or to reduce dependence on glasses and contacts. It also prevents cataracts from developing in the future.

While the recovery is usually smooth and straightforward, your eyes still need time to heal properly after surgery.

How soon can I exercise?

It depends on the type of exercise. Some gentle activity is fine early on, while more intense movements need to wait.

Let’s break it down:

Day 1–3: Rest and take it easy

In the first few days:

• Focus on recovery
• Avoid any strenuous activity
• No bending, lifting, or vigorous movement.

Light walking around the house is fine, but this isn’t the time for a power walk or yoga class. Give your eyes a chance to settle.

Day 3–7: Light walking and gentle movement

Most people can resume:

• Gentle walks outdoors
• Light household chores (no lifting)
• Standing stretches (no head-down positions).

Avoid sweating heavily, as sweat can drip into the eyes and increase the risk of irritation or infection.

Week 2: Low-impact cardio

If your follow-up checks have gone well and your vision is stable, you may resume:

• Brisk walking
• Gentle cycling on a stationary bike
• Low-intensity treadmill work.

Still avoid:

• Running or jogging
• High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
• Contact sports
• Swimming

Week 3–4: Gradual return to regular routines

By this point, most people are back to:

• Gym workouts (excluding anything high-impact)
• Pilates or yoga (with care)
• Outdoor cycling (if vision and balance feel stable).

Continue to avoid heavy lifting, jumping, or inverted positions like downward dog.

Week 4+: Full activity—if cleared by your surgeon

At the 4-week mark (or once your surgeon confirms), you can typically return to:

• Running or jogging
• Weightlifting
• Tennis, golf, or racquet sports
• Swimming (with protective goggles)
• All other high-impact activities.

Why avoid exercise early on?

Your eyes are healing, and early activity can:

• Raise eye pressure
• Increase the risk of bleeding or swelling
• Introduce bacteria or debris (especially with swimming or dusty environments)
• Lead to accidental knocks or strain

Exercising too soon can interfere with the lens settling correctly—and could delay your recovery.

What about swimming?

Avoid swimming and hot tubs for at least 3 to 4 weeks.

Water introduces a higher risk of infection, even in clean pools. If you do return to swimming after 4 weeks, use tight-fitting goggles and speak to your surgeon first.

Should I wear eye protection?

Yes—especially if you're in a dusty environment or playing sports.

Wearing:

• Sunglasses outdoors
• Protective goggles for sports
• A hat to shield from sun or wind.

…will all help keep your healing eyes safe from irritation.

What about sweating into my eyes?

Sweat can carry bacteria or irritants. Use a headband or towel to keep sweat from dripping into your eyes during your workouts. If sweat does get into your eye, gently rinse with clean water or preservative-free eye drops.

How will I know I’m ready?

Every person is different. If your vision feels stable, your eye isn’t red or irritated, and you’ve had a successful follow-up, you’re likely ready to move more freely. Still, always check with your surgeon before resuming strenuous activity.

Take our quick self-test to find out if lens replacement is right for your lifestyle.
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