Swimming after pterygium removal surgery should be avoided until the surface and graft have healed, because water can irritate the eye and increase infection risk.
Why early swimming is not advised
Chlorine, salt, and bacteria can disturb delicate tissue and slow recovery. Allowing the graft to bond firmly first protects your comfort and vision.
- Pools, hot tubs, lakes, and the sea are generally off limits for several weeks.
- Even during showers, try not to splash water directly into your eyes.
- Contact lenses for swimming are normally not recommended in early healing.
- Follow your surgeon’s personalised timeframe, as healing speeds vary.
- Continue using prescribed drops while swimming is restricted.
Returning safely to water activities
Once your clinician confirms it is safe, you can usually return to gentle swimming with precautions. Ongoing protection helps prevent irritation and recurrence.
- Start with short pool sessions and wear snug, watertight goggles.
- Avoid rubbing your eye after swimming; use lubricating drops if it feels gritty.
- Delay open water and vigorous water sports a little longer unless specifically cleared.
- Keep sunscreen, sand, and spray away from the eye as much as possible.
- Seek urgent care if you notice pain, redness, discharge, or blurred vision after swimming.
