Laser eye surgery can be suitable for people who play contact sports, but procedure choice is crucial because of the risk of eye trauma.
Risks in contact sports
Sports such as rugby, martial arts, hockey, or football carry a chance of impacts to the eye and face.
- LASIK flaps could theoretically shift with a significant blow
- Surface procedures like PRK or LASEK avoid long‑term flap risk
- Short‑term avoidance of contact is essential while healing
- Protective eyewear or headgear reduces the chance of injury
- Honest discussion of how often and how intensely you play
Planning surgery around your sport
With careful timing and protection, many athletes return successfully to full contact.
- Scheduling surgery well before a new season or major competition
- Following staged return‑to‑play guidance from the surgical team
- Delaying sparring or full contact until the cornea is robust
- Continuing to protect the eyes even once cleared for play
- Considering alternative corrections if trauma risk is extremely high
