Many people may be able to resume scuba diving after 4 weeks if healing is smooth, but some surgeons recommend waiting up to 3 months—especially for deeper or technical dives. This waiting period reduces the risk of infection or corneal complications. This guide explains why waiting matters, typical timelines, and how to prep for your first post‑LASIK dive.
Key Takeaways
- Typical clearance for shallow recreational dives: ~4 weeks (if your surgeon approves).
- For deep/technical dives: many surgeons advise 2–3 months.
- Reasons to wait: infection risk, pressure changes, mask pressure on a healing corneal flap.
- Always get individual clearance at your follow‑up exam before diving.
Why You Need to Wait Before Scuba Diving After LASIK
During the first weeks after surgery, the corneal flap is healing and more vulnerable to pressure, contamination, and trauma. Diving too soon can stress the tissue and increase complication risks.
The LASIK Healing Process
LASIK reshapes the cornea to sharpen focus on the retina. Although vision often improves quickly, the healing and flap adherence take longer. This is why surgeons restrict water exposure and high‑pressure environments early on.
Why Diving Too Soon Is Risky
- Water contamination: Oceans, lakes, pools, and hot tubs can harbor bacteria—raising infection risk before the eye fully heals.
- Pressure changes: Descents add external pressure that may stress a healing corneal flap.
- Mask & equipment fit: A tight mask or adjustments underwater can apply friction/pressure around the eyes.
Waiting the recommended period lowers the chance of infection, flap‑related issues, and visual disturbances while diving.
Typical Recovery Time Before Diving
| Phase | What to Do | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 — Immediate Post‑Op | No swimming or diving of any kind. | Focus on prescribed drops; keep eyes clean and irritant‑free. |
| Weeks 2–3 — Healing Progress | Some surgeons allow surface swimming with protective goggles. | Scuba diving still restricted; avoid deeper water/pressure. |
| ≥ 4 Weeks — Potential Clearance | Possible return to shallow, recreational scuba if your exam is stable. | For deep/frequent/technical dives, many recommend 2–3 months before clearance. |
Always follow your surgeon’s personalised guidance based on your healing and follow‑up findings.
Factors That Affect When You Can Scuba Dive After LASIK
1) Type of Procedure
- LASIK: Flap‑based; quicker visual recovery, but flap still needs time to adhere.
- PRK: Surface treatment with longer recovery; many patients wait 6–12 weeks or more before diving.
- SMILE: Small‑incision procedure; recovery may be quicker but still requires a waiting period.
2) Your Healing Speed
Age, health, and symptoms (e.g., dry eye, swelling) influence how fast your cornea stabilises.
3) Your Dive Type
- Recreational (shallower) dives: Usually cleared sooner.
- Technical/deep dives: Often require a longer wait and stricter clearance.
4) Post‑Surgery Care
Using drops as prescribed and attending check‑ups supports faster, safer clearance.
Risks of Diving Too Soon After LASIK
- Infections: Non‑sterile water can introduce bacteria, delay healing, or affect vision.
- Flap displacement: Rare, but pressure or mask squeeze/rubbing could disturb a healing flap.
- Visual disturbances: Blurred/fluctuating vision under pressure or in low light may worsen if you dive early.
- Extended recovery: Even mild stress can prolong healing and delay visual stability.
How to Prepare for Scuba Diving After LASIK
- Schedule an eye exam: Confirm stable vision and well‑healed flap before diving.
- Use artificial tears: Diving can dry eyes; lubricate before and after dives.
- Check mask fit: Ensure a snug seal without excessive pressure around the eyes.
- Start shallow: Begin with shallow dives and increase depth gradually.
- Avoid rubbing eyes: Even if irritated underwater, don’t rub.
- Stay hydrated: Helps reduce post‑dive dryness.
Can Scuba Diving Affect Long‑Term LASIK Results?
With appropriate waiting and precautions, scuba diving should not affect long‑term LASIK outcomes. The main risks arise from diving too soon before full healing.
The Bottom Line on Diving After LASIK
Most people can return to recreational scuba about one month after LASIK if their surgeon approves. For deep or technical dives, many providers recommend 2–3 months. Follow your surgeon’s instructions and the precautions above to protect your cornea and enjoy a safe return to the water.
FAQs About Scuba Diving After LASIK
How long after LASIK can I dive deeper than 60 feet?
Deeper dives often require a longer wait—typically 2–3 months—and only with your surgeon’s explicit clearance.
Is it safe to scuba dive in saltwater after LASIK?
Saltwater carries similar infection risks as freshwater. Wait until your surgeon confirms adequate healing before diving.
Do I need special gear for diving after LASIK?
No special gear is required, but ensure your mask fits correctly and doesn’t press excessively around the eyes.
Will my mask fit differently after LASIK?
LASIK doesn’t change facial structure. Still, verify and adjust the fit for comfort and to minimise pressure.
Can I snorkel sooner than scuba dive after LASIK?
Snorkelling may be allowed sooner, but consult your surgeon and use protective eyewear to minimise water exposure.