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Can you get laser eye surgery when pregnant?

Pregnancy can be an exciting yet challenging experience, especially regarding personal healthcare. One question that often arises is whether a pregnant woman can get laser eye surgery or not. Laser eye surgery is a modern treatment that can correct vision problems, but can you get LASIK while pregnant? The answer is no; you should avoid laser eye surgery if you are pregnant.

  1. The prenatal period comes with many physical and hormonal changes that can cause a fluctuation in your vision. The high oestrogen levels during pregnancy can cause dryness and an increase in the amount of fluid in the cornea, leading to a temporary worsening of your vision. Therefore, your suitability for LASIK may not be determined until after delivery.
  2. The fact that LASIK is an elective surgery may put a hold on it during pregnancy. If you’re an expectant mother, we advise you to avoid unnecessary surgeries during this period, especially those that are not critical. While LASIK is a safe and straightforward procedure, you may be at higher risk of complications due to the hormonal shifts and changes your body undergoes during pregnancy.
  3. LASIK can be uncomfortable during pregnancy. Your eyes will be numbed with eye drops before the procedure, and some doctors may use mild sedatives to relax you, which could harm your growing baby. Also, some discomfort after LASIK surgery is normal and can be enhanced due to the hormone changes you are experiencing. While LASIK is a short procedure at typically 30 minutes1https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774, it may be too risky during pregnancy, and it is best to avoid it until after giving birth.
  4. If you’ve undergone LASIK surgery before pregnancy, you may experience some changes in vision during pregnancy. Hormonal fluctuations can bring visual changes and affect how you see the world, including blurred vision, dry eyes, and even nearsightedness, making driving and daily activities challenging. If you have undergone LASIK and are experiencing changes in vision during pregnancy, you should consult your eye doctor for a follow-up examination.

While LASIK is a safe and effective procedure2https://journals.healio.com/doi/abs/10.3928/1081597X-20140320-03, it is not viable during pregnancy for various reasons. For more information, book a free assessment with us to learn more about laser eye surgery.

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HI I’M DR. MATTHEW RUSSELL YOUR LASER EYE AND CATARACT SURGERY SPECIALIST

With over 15 years of experience, I enjoy the privilege of helping patients of all ages reclaim clear vision or preserve it for as long as possible.

Vision correction and high-precision cataract surgery hinge on the expertise and skill set of the provider who also has access to the most precise tools for the job. Ophthalmic surgeons like me know how to make treatment safe, comfortable and positive for the patient. They know how to minimise the risk of complications and maximise successful outcomes.

I have a passion for helping my patients enjoy the clear, high-definition vision they need to live rich and active lives. Now, I have hand-picked a team of professionals that share my passion and commitment to exceptional care.

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MBChB, FRANZCO