- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: March 18, 2025
If you’re considering ICL surgery to correct your vision, you may have questions about the recovery process, particularly regarding when you can resume your exercise routine. At Blue Fin Vision®, we understand that maintaining an active lifestyle is important to our patients, which is why we’ve developed a progressive approach to post-operative care that gets you back to your fitness regimen as quickly and safely as possible.
Understanding ICL Surgery
Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery is a revolutionary vision correction procedure that involves placing a soft, flexible lens behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. This advanced treatment is particularly beneficial for those with moderate to high levels of near-sightedness, offering a permanent yet removable solution for vision correction.
Unlike laser eye surgery, which reshapes the cornea, ICL surgery preserves the corneal tissue, making it an excellent option for patients with thin corneas or dry eyes. The procedure is quick, typically taking about 20-30 minutes per eye, and recovery is remarkably swift.
When Can I Start Exercising After ICL Surgery?
One of the most common questions our patients ask is: “How long after ICL surgery can I exercise?” The good news is that at Blue Fin Vision®, our approach to post-operative care is designed to minimise disruption to your active lifestyle.
Our Exercise Guidelines After ICL Surgery:
- Day 1 Post-Surgery: You can resume most forms of exercise immediately after your procedure. This includes running, using the gym, and most other physical activities.
- First Week: Avoid swimming for the first week after surgery to prevent potential infection.
- Showering: You can shower normally the day after your procedure.
This progressive approach sets us apart from many other eye clinics in London, where patients might be advised to wait several days or even weeks before resuming their normal exercise routine.
Why Can I Exercise So Soon After ICL Surgery?
At Blue Fin Vision®, we’ve refined our surgical techniques and post-operative care to enable a swift return to normal activities, including exercise. Here’s why this is possible:
- Minimally Invasive Procedure: The small incision made during ICL surgery heals quickly.
- No Corneal Reshaping: Unlike laser procedures, ICL surgery doesn’t alter the structure of your cornea, allowing for faster recovery.
- Advanced Technology: We use the latest EVO Visian ICL technology with a central port design that allows natural fluid flow within the eye, reducing complications.
- Expert Surgical Technique: Our surgeons’ precision and expertise minimise trauma to the eye, facilitating faster healing.
Benefits of Early Exercise After ICL Surgery
Returning to exercise soon after your ICL procedure offers several advantages:
- Improved Circulation: Physical activity enhances blood flow, which can aid the healing process.
- Mental Well-being: Exercise releases endorphins, helping to reduce stress and improve mood during your recovery.
- Minimal Disruption: Maintaining your fitness routine helps you return to normal life more quickly.
- Reduced Risk of Complications: Gentle movement can help prevent issues associated with prolonged inactivity.
Precautions to Take When Exercising After ICL Surgery
While we encourage a return to exercise, we do recommend some precautions:
- Avoid Eye Rubbing: Refrain from touching or rubbing your eyes, especially during the first week.
- Wear Protective Eyewear: Consider wearing sports goggles for activities where there’s a risk of something getting in your eye.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports overall healing and helps prevent dry eyes.
- Listen to Your Body: If you experience discomfort, reduced vision, or unusual symptoms during exercise, stop and contact our clinic immediately.
- Follow Medication Schedule: Continue using prescribed eye drops even on days when you’re exercising.
Types of Exercise to Consider After ICL Surgery
Recommended Activities from Day One:
- Walking and Running: These are excellent low-impact options to get your body moving.
- Stationary Cycling: A great cardiovascular exercise that doesn’t pose risks to your eyes.
- Light Weightlifting: You can resume strength training with proper technique to avoid straining.
- Yoga and Pilates: These can be resumed, though you may want to modify positions that place your head below your heart initially.
Activities to Avoid for One Week:
- Swimming: Wait at least one week before returning to the pool to reduce infection risk.
- Water Sports: Activities like surfing or water skiing should be postponed for at least a week.
- Contact Sports: Consider waiting slightly longer before returning to sports with a high risk of eye impact.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® for Your ICL Surgery
At Blue Fin Vision®, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional care throughout your ICL journey. Our approach to post-operative care, including our progressive exercise guidelines, is just one example of how we prioritise your overall well-being and lifestyle needs.
Our eye clinic in London offers:
- Experienced Surgeons: Our team has extensive experience in performing ICL procedures.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest EVO Visian ICL technology for optimal results.
- Personalised Care: Your treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle.
- Comprehensive Support: We provide detailed guidance for every stage of your recovery.
- Convenient Locations: With clinics across London, Essex, and Hertfordshire, quality care is always accessible.
Patient Experiences
Many of our patients are pleasantly surprised by how quickly they can return to their exercise routines after ICL surgery. From marathon runners to yoga enthusiasts, our patients consistently report minimal disruption to their active lifestyles following their procedures.
Conclusion
ICL surgery at Blue Fin Vision® offers not only exceptional vision correction but also a recovery process designed to complement your active lifestyle. With our approach, you can ask “when can I start exercising after ICL surgery?” and receive the encouraging answer: almost immediately.
If you’re considering ICL surgery and value maintaining your exercise routine, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our London eye clinic. Our team will provide personalised advice based on your specific needs and help you achieve visual freedom with minimal disruption to your active lifestyle.
Don’t let vision problems hold you back from the activities you love. With Blue Fin Vision® and ICL surgery, you can enjoy clear vision and return to exercise sooner than you might expect.
Contact us today to learn more about ICL surgery and our patient-centred approach to post-operative care.
