Effects of LASIK on Professional and Recreational Sports
Many athletes have discovered that LASIK surgery can improve their vision and ultimately their overall performance. The LASIK procedure allows professional and recreational athletes to move quickly and more comfortably without worrying that an opponent or teammate will knock off their glasses during a game or competition.
Players can benefit from LASIK surgery because they no longer have to deal with sweat or dirt getting beneath contact lenses, which can lead to eye irritation. And with LASIK surgery, athletes will be back on the playing field in no time, performing to the best of their ability.
Older alternatives to LASIK
In the past, athletes with less than perfect vision had to wear special contact lenses created for those who led an active lifestyle. Special eyeglass or sunglasses designed for sports may have been necessary. The other option was to go without any corrective eyewear and take the chance that they would not be able to see enough to compete.
Today, LASIK surgery offers an alternative to these risky options. Many professional athletes, like Tiger Woods, have had LASIK surgery to correct visual impairment problems that put them at risk of not being able to play their sports.
Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods is a world-famous, record-setting golfer. He is also a recipient of LASIK surgery. Tiger was diagnosed with severe nearsightedness at age 11. He was deemed “legally blind,” with vision so poor that he struggled to see the ball when it was sitting on the tee.
In spite of his handicap, Tiger managed to remain competitive. After his LASIK procedure, though, Tiger won his next five tournaments.
He says that he ultimately chose to undergo LASIK because many of his competitors had chosen the surgery and recommended it to him. After having LASIK surgery and endorsing it, Tiger helped bring this highly effective procedure into the mainstream.
What athletes should consider
There are a number of reasons why athletes should consider LASIK surgery. Many claim it is easier to run and jump without wearing glasses. And some sports, such as martial arts, do not permit competitors to wear any type of eyewear during competition.
There are many drawbacks to wearing contacts during competition. Aside from dust and dirt that may get inside, if a contact lens falls out during a competition, an athlete could suffer a sudden decline in performance. Surgery would help in all these scenarios.
Following surgery
Following the LASIK procedure, you will be able to resume most normal activities immediately after surgery. However, for at least two weeks you must avoid any contact sports, swimming, or any activity that could cause perspiration to run into your eyes.
You should wear safety glasses while playing contact sports even if you have not had surgery, to protect your eyes at all times. Even if you do not normally wear them, it is best to wear them for at least a month after your LASIK procedure.
If you are a professional or recreational athlete and live in the Los Angeles area, surgery can help you achieve your athletic goals. Please contact our Orange County Office today. We offer free vision screenings for all new patients. Please schedule your appointment today.
