One of the key factors for achieving the best sports results is certainly good eyesight. People who wear prescription glasses know very well how much discomfort they represent when performing sports activities. In addition to being uncomfortable and impractical, the glasses are not impact resistant and the lenses can shatter and cause serious eye injuries.

One of the options that, at first glance, seems like an excellent solution is wearing contact lenses . However, what is less known are the numerous complications that can occur as an inevitability of long-term wearing, allergic reactions or poor tolerance of the material from which the lens is made, non-compliance with the wearing and maintenance regimen, as well as physical damage to the lens.

Bearing in mind the above, more and more athletes opt for laser dioptre removal , as a permanent and safe solution that allows them good vision without wearing glasses and contact lenses and a clear focus.

It is a misconception that active athletes are not suitable candidates for this procedure, and this is supported by the fact that numerous world-famous athletes, including Tiger Woods (golfer), LeBron James (basketball player) and Greg Maddux (baseball pitcher), have undergone laser hair removal before. However, there are some guidelines that active athletes (professional or recreational) must follow.

The type of sport determines the method of operation

Both techniques (Lasik and PRK) can be used in patients with lower diopters who play non-contact sports (e.g. athletics). If we are talking about rougher sports like handball, football, hockey, wrestling, boxing, etc. the PRK method is most often used due to better preservation of the integrity of the cornea, with less pronounced dryness of the eye.

The importance of sticking to the recovery time

Although the effect of laser dioptre removal is visible almost immediately after the end of the procedure, it is necessary to pass a certain period after the operation in order for the inside of the eye to fully regenerate. What is typical for athletes is that they are often very anxious to get back on the field as soon as possible and “test” their new sight. However, it is especially important for them to fully respect the time provided for recovery (sports activities are not advised in the first three weeks). If during a game, training, competition, etc. if the eye is struck, before the cornea has fully recovered, there is a risk of serious damage. Also, if sweat or dirt gets into the eye, damage to the cornea and dangerous infections with permanent consequences for vision can occur.

It is a misconception that laser diopter removal is not for athletes

Professional sports are a frequent indication for laser dioptre removal. This operation has allowed many athletes to get rid of their glasses and achieve top results.