Can I get laser eye surgery while breastfeeding?

Can You Get Laser Eye Surgery While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether to undergo laser eye surgery, such as LASIK, while breastfeeding is a nuanced one, influenced by both medical considerations and individual circumstances. As of now, the consensus among ophthalmologists leans towards caution, primarily due to the physiological changes that occur during and after pregnancy.
Understanding the Risks and Recommendations
While there is no clinically proven risk associated with laser eye surgery during breastfeeding, many experts recommend postponing the procedure. This recommendation stems from the hormonal fluctuations that can affect vision stability during lactation. These changes may lead to temporary eyesight alterations, which could impact the accuracy of pre-operative measurements and, consequently, the surgery’s outcomes.
Dr. Lawrence, a noted expert in the field, points out that the primary reason to avoid LASIK during lactation is if a mother experiences temporary eyesight changes due to hormonal shifts. If these changes are not present, breastfeeding mothers are generally considered eligible for laser vision correction. However, many practitioners advise waiting until at least three months after childbirth or after the cessation of breastfeeding to ensure that vision has stabilized and returned to pre-pregnancy levels.
The Importance of Timing
The timing of laser eye surgery is crucial. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to corneal changes that may persist, affecting vision clarity and prescription stability. Therefore, it is often recommended that mothers wait until their menstrual cycle has returned to normal and their vision has stabilized before considering surgery.
Moreover, the use of sedatives during the procedure, which may be necessary for some patients, raises additional concerns. While light sedation is typically safe, it is not advisable for breastfeeding mothers, further complicating the decision].
Conclusion: A Personal Decision
Ultimately, the decision to undergo laser eye surgery while breastfeeding should be made in consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist. They can provide personalized advice based on the individual’s health, vision changes, and overall circumstances. While breastfeeding does not outright prohibit laser eye surgery, the potential for temporary vision changes and the importance of stable eyesight make it a decision best approached with caution.

How long after pregnancy can you get laser eye surgery?

Other resources recommend postponing LASIK for 3-6 months after pregnancy and cessation of breastfeeding. Thus, women of child-bearing age should be appropriately counseled on the potentially increased risk of corneal ectasia with pregnancy status post LASIK.

How long after birth can you do laser?

It’s generally recommended you wait at least six months after giving birth before undergoing laser hair removal treatment. This waiting period allows your body to recover from the physical changes of pregnancy and childbirth, including hormonal fluctuations that can affect hair growth.

Can I get laser removal while breastfeeding?

Answer: Laser hair removal and breast feeding There is absolutely no harm to the breast milk from laser hair removal, however, your hormonal milieu may make hyperpigmentation after the treatment slightly more common. Please discuss this with your doctor.

What happens if you need surgery while breastfeeding?

Most times, you will not need to pump and throw away any of your milk. Plan on feeding your baby or pumping your breasts as close to the time of surgery as possible. This will help keep your breasts from becoming too full during surgery. You will also need to empty your breasts after your surgery.

What disqualifies you from getting LASIK?

When is LASIK not for me?

• You required a change in your contact lens or glasses prescription in the past year. This is called refractive instability.
• You have a disease or are on medications that may affect wound healing.
• You actively participate in contact sports.
• You are not an adult.

How long after nursing can I get LASIK?

The typical recommendation is to wait about three months post-nursing, allowing hormones to stabilize and ensuring that any medications or supplements taken during breastfeeding do not interfere with the surgery or recovery.

Can I have laser eye surgery while breastfeeding?

Pregnancy and lactation lead to hormonal changes that affect the corneal structure. LASIK, or other types of refractive surgery, is not recommended until all of the following conditions are met: cessation of lactation, the return of regular menses, and a return to pre-pregnancy refraction.

Who cannot get laser eye surgery?

Pregnant or nursing women. Those with thin or irregular corneas. People with autoimmune disorders affecting the eyes. Individuals with certain medical conditions such as diabetes or immune disorders.

How long after breastfeeding can I get surgery?

Generally, women are recommended to wait at least six months after breastfeeding before getting any cosmetic procedure, including mastopexy. This allows your body time to adjust and your breast tissue to settle into its final shape following lactation.

Is it safe to have surgery while breastfeeding?

Anesthesia and Medicines
The American Academy of Pediatrics approves many of the medicines that are normally used with surgery for breastfeeding mothers. Most times, you will not need to pump and throw away any of your milk.