## Is Scuba Diving Safe for LASIK Patients?
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a surgical procedure that corrects vision by reshaping the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. LASIK is a common and generally safe procedure, but there are some risks involved, including the risk of corneal ectasia.
Corneal ectasia is a condition in which the cornea weakens and bulges outward. This can cause vision problems, including blurry vision, double vision, and glare. Corneal ectasia is a rare complication of LASIK, but it is more likely to occur in people who have certain risk factors, such as thin corneas or a family history of corneal ectasia.
Scuba diving is an activity that can put stress on the cornea. This is because the pressure underwater can cause the cornea to bulge outward. For people with LASIK, this can increase the risk of corneal ectasia.
## Recommendations for LASIK Patients Who Want to Scuba Dive
If you have had LASIK and want to scuba dive, it is important to talk to your doctor first. Your doctor can assess your risk of corneal ectasia and make recommendations on how to scuba dive safely.
Your doctor may recommend that you:
Wait at least 6 months after your LASIK procedure before scuba diving. This will give your cornea time to heal and stabilize.
Wear a scuba mask that has a prescription lens. This will help to protect your eyes from the pressure underwater.
Do not dive deeper than 30 feet (9 meters). The pressure underwater increases with depth, so diving deeper can increase the risk of corneal ectasia.
Limit your dives to 60 minutes each. This will help to reduce the amount of stress on your cornea.
Take breaks between dives. This will give your cornea time to rest and recover.
## Conclusion
Scuba diving can be a safe and enjoyable activity for LASIK patients, but it is important to take precautions to protect your eyes. By following your doctor’s recommendations, you can help to minimize the risk of corneal ectasia and other eye problems.
## Additional Information
[LASIK Surgery](https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik-surgery)
[Corneal Ectasia](https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/corneal-ectasia)
[Scuba Diving and LASIK](https://www.scubaboard.com/community/threads/lasik-and-scuba-diving.494455/)