The period of pregnancy brings about numerous bodily changes, including shifts in vision. This raises valid questions about the suitability of procedures like LASIK. If expecting, or planning to be, it is key to understand how hormone levels and eyesight interact.
At Shinagawa Lasik Center, we aim to provide patients with clear, reliable information. This guide covers LASIK and pregnancy.
Why LASIK is Not Advised During Pregnancy
The short-term nature of vision changes in pregnancy is a main reason LASIK is not advised. Unstable vision makes it hard to get correct, lasting results.
Cornea changes can lead to incorrect pre-LASIK measurements. This raises the risk of too much or too little correction, perhaps needing extra procedures.
The greater risk of dry eye problems is another big factor. After LASIK, dry eye symptoms can worsen, and managing these symptoms during pregnancy is difficult.
Medicine concerns also matter. Post-LASIK medicines, like steroids and antibiotics, have possible risks during pregnancy. It is vital to speak with both an eye doctor and a pregnancy doctor about medicine safety.
Hormone effects on healing can also affect recovery. Hormones can change the healing process, perhaps slowing or damaging healing after LASIK.
Stress is also important. Pregnancy adds stress to the body, and recovery after LASIK could add more. Good healing needs less stress, making pregnancy a less than ideal time for this procedure.
LASIK and Breastfeeding
The concerns continue into breastfeeding. Post-LASIK medicines can possibly move into breast milk, raising worries about baby safety. Speaking with a doctor about medicine safety during breastfeeding is needed.
Hormone levels stay unstable for a time after giving birth. It is usually advised to wait until hormones stabilize before thinking about LASIK. This time varies, but hormone levels may take several months after delivery to return to normal.
Caring for a newborn takes much time and energy. Good healing and rest after LASIK can be hard at this time. Good rest is important for best LASIK recovery.
When is the Correct Time for LASIK After Pregnancy?
Generally, it is advised to wait several months after delivery and after breastfeeding stops. However, individual cases differ. Speaking with an eye doctor is key.
Stable hormone levels are needed before LASIK. Waiting until periods return to normal can show hormone stabilization.
Stable vision is also vital for correct LASIK results. Multiple eye exams can confirm stable vision.
Speaking with both an eye doctor and a pregnancy doctor is always advised. This team approach ensures full care.
Alternatives to LASIK During Pregnancy
Keeping clear vision during pregnancy is important. Regular eye exams can help update glasses or contact prescriptions.
Safe eye drops can help with dry eye discomfort. Ask your eye doctor about safe eye drop ingredients for pregnancy.
Conclusion
LASIK is generally not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding because of hormone changes, possible incorrect measurements, higher dry eye risk, medicine concerns, and stress effects on healing.
At Shinagawa Lasik & Aesthetics, we value your safety and well-being. We know the desire for clear sight and aim to give you correct and reliable information.
We encourage you to speak with our experienced eye doctors to talk about your options and find the best time for LASIK. We aim to give personalized care and ensure your eye health.
By understanding the connection between LASIK and pregnancy, you can make informed choices about your eye health. We are here to support you.
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Citations and Resources
Shinagawa LASIK & Aesthetics strives to provide accurate and reliable information regarding LASIK procedures and eye health. We utilize primary sources to support our content, including peer-reviewed scientific studies, data from reputable medical organizations, and expert opinions. We also reference established publications and research where appropriate.
Our commitment to evidence-based information ensures that you receive trustworthy and up-to-date details to make informed decisions about your eye care.
Resources Used in This Article
- Sharpevision. “Pregnancy and LASIK, https://sharpe-vision.com/blog/pregnancy-and-lasik/“
- Healio. “Study Finds Pregnancy a Contraindication for Refractive Surgery, https://www.healio.com/news/ophthalmology/20210304/study-finds-pregnancy-a-contraindication-for-refractive-surgery
- EyeWiki. “LASIK and Pregnancy, https://eyewiki.org/LASIK_and_Pregnancy
- All About Vision. “Can I Have LASIK if I’m Pregnant?, https://www.allaboutvision.com/treatments-and-surgery/vision-surgery/lasik/pregnant-during-lasik/“