Can You Skydive After LASIK Surgery?

If you’ve recently had LASIK eye surgery and skydiving is on your bucket list, you’re not alone in wondering: Is it safe to skydive after LASIK? It’s a reasonable concern. After all, you’ve just invested in your vision, and the last thing you want is to risk your recovery by rushing into something extreme.

The good news? Yes, you can absolutely go skydiving after LASIK, as long as you give your eyes the time they need to heal. Here’s what you need to know before you suit up.

Is it Safe to Skydive After LASIK?

In short, yes, but timing is key.

LASIK works by reshaping the cornea to correct vision. During the procedure, a small flap is created on the surface of your eye, which is then repositioned after the laser correction is made. That flap needs time to settle and heal. While the recovery is relatively quick, the eye is still sensitive in the early days and weeks after surgery. Eye surgery and skydiving safety are two of a kind: stick to the rules, don’t take unnecessary risks, and listen to your body (and your doctor).

Skydiving involves high-speed airflow – the average freefall for tandem skydiving is 120 mph! That kind of wind pressure can be uncomfortable or even risky if your eyes haven’t fully recovered. If you jump too soon, you may experience dryness, irritation, or, worse case scenario, interfere with the healing of that flap.

This is why most eye surgeons recommend waiting a bit before resuming intense physical activities after LASIK – and skydiving is definitely intense!

How Long Should You Wait After LASIK?

You’ve got to give your corneal flap time to heal, and reduce your risk of dry eye during that period. While everyone heals at a slightly different pace, most ophthalmologists advise waiting at least 4 weeks before doing anything that exposes your eyes to significant wind, debris, or pressure changes. Some suggest waiting longer – even months longer – before attempting high-adrenaline activities like skydiving or scuba diving. 

Always consult your LASIK provider before booking your jump. They’ll be able to give you the best advice based on how your individual recovery is going. 

What Freefall Feels Like 

To understand why that recovery window matters so much, let’s talk about what skydiving actually feels like. 

Freefall lasts about 45 to 60 seconds and kicks in the moment you exit the aircraft. You fall at speeds of around 120 mph, so you feel a strong rush of air against your body and face. It’s not like a rollercoaster drop; there’s no stomach-flipping sensation. It feels more like floating on a cushion of air. 

That wind is exhilarating, but it’s also fast and dry. That’s why snug-fitting goggles are required for all tandem skydives, even if you don’t wear corrective lenses. Tandem students don’t wear full-face helmets (we’d rather not have you accidentally headbutt your instructor mid-jump), so goggles are the go-to form of eye protection.

Goggles shield your eyes from the wind and keep you comfortable and focused on the moment. That said, while it’s rare, there is always a slight chance of goggles shifting or coming off in freefall, which is exactly why we want to be sure your eyes are fully healed before taking the leap. 

Tips for Skydiving After LASIK 

If you’re past your healing window, your ophthalmologist has given you the green light, and you’re ready to book your jump, here are a few extra tips to make your experience even smoother:

• Stay hydrated: LASIK can sometimes lead to temporary dry eye. Staying well-hydrated helps support natural tear production and can improve overall eye comfort, both on the ground and in the air.
• Use lubricating eye drops: If your eyes tend to feel dry post-LASIK, a few drops of artificial tears before gearing up can help.
• Wear tight-sealing goggles: At Parachute Ottawa, all tandem students are provided with protective goggles that fit securely, whether you wear glasses, contacts, or no corrective lenses at all. 

What If You Still Wear Contacts or Glasses?

One of the big perks of LASIK is ditching your glasses or contacts, but in some cases, you may still need mild correction. That’s no problem. Our goggles are designed to fit comfortably over both. Many of our tandem students wear contacts or glasses during their jump without any issue. 

Skydiving After LASIK: Final Thoughts

Yes, it is safe to go skydiving after LASIK – it’s all a matter of timing. Once your eyes are healed and your surgeon gives you the go-ahead, you’re good to go. 

At Parachute Ottawa, we take your safety seriously, and that includes ensuring you’re comfortable and confident every step of the way. Whether you’ve just had LASIK, wear contacts, or are rocking 20/20 vision, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to take the leap? Book your tandem skydive with Parachute Ottawa and see the world from a whole new perspective! Blue skies!