A life without glasses or contact lenses is a great wish for many women – especially when the family is growing. But what about laser eye surgery during pregnancy or shortly afterwards? Is laser treatment of the eyes even advisable in this sensitive phase of life? The answer is: it depends.

In this article, you will find out when laser eye surgery is possible, which changes during pregnancy influence the decision – and why it is important to assess suitability for laser eye treatment individually and with sensitivity. A compact guide for women who are looking for clarity – and want to rely on safe, long-term results.

Laser eye surgery and pregnancy – is that even possible?

Many women ask themselves the question: Can I have my eyes lasered if I am pregnant or want to be pregnant soon? The answer is not quite so simple – because pregnancy affects the hormone balance, the body and also the eyesight. This can havea direct impact on suitability for laser eye treatment. In this article, we explain when laser eye treatment is possible and sensible, what the risks are– and what you should be aware of before, during and after pregnancy.

Why pregnancy can influence the procedure

During pregnancy, the entire hormonal balance changes – and this also affects the eyes. Hormonal changes can cause the cornea to swell or change its curvature, leadingto temporary fluctuations in visual acuity. This makes it difficult to precisely determine the actual need for correction – a basic prerequisite for successful laser eye treatment.

In addition, the use of certain medications – such as eye drops for post-operative care – is restricted or even contraindicated during pregnancy. The immune system also reacts differently, which could theoretically slightly increase the risk of infection or complications after the procedure. It is therefore generally not advisable to have laser eye surgery during pregnancy. This is because the procedure must be effective and safe.

Laser eye surgery before pregnancy – the ideal time

The best time for laser eye treatment is clear: before pregnancy, when vision is stable and no hormonal fluctuations affect the procedure. Ideally, the number of diopters should have remained constant for at least a year – regardless of whether it is short-sightedness, long-sightedness or astigmatism.

Laser treatment before a planned pregnancy has several advantages:

• You no longer have to worry about glasses or contact lenses during pregnancy

• There are no restrictions on medication or aftercare

• The cornea is in its natural state, which increases the precision of the procedure

Important: Planning should be done early so that there is enoughtime between laser treatment and a possible pregnancyto allow the result to heal completely – usually around 3 months.

Why laser eye surgery during pregnancy is taboo with Smartlaser

Laser eye treatment during pregnancy is generally not recommended – due to the hormonal changes to the cornea and vision, as well as the limited tolerance of medication during this sensitive phase.

At Smartlaser, we always focus on one thing: the best possible result – with maximum safety. That is why we do not perform laser eye surgery during pregnancy and deliberately avoid procedures where the risk is higher than the benefit. Your health and the outcome of the treatment are our top priority.

Risks of laser eye surgery during pregnancy for mother and child

Laser eye surgery during pregnancy may seem unproblematic at first glance – but the medical associations clearly advise against it. Why? Because there can be specific risks for both the expectant mother and the unborn child.

• Inaccurate results due to hormone-related fluctuations in visual acuity
  → The curvature of the cornea can change during pregnancy, which can lead to incorrect correction.

• Altered healing processes
  → The immune system is altered during pregnancy, which can delay or impair wound healing.

• Increased dryness of the eyes
  → Many pregnant women suffer from dry eyes – a risk factor after laser eye surgery that can increase discomfort.

• Medication aftercare only possible to a limited extent
  → Certain eye drops or medications that are necessaryfor anti-inflammation or infection prophylaxismust not be used during pregnancy.

• Unnecessary stress for mother and child
  → Any surgical procedure – even if it is minimally invasive – can cause unnecessary physical stress or psychological tension for expectant mothers.

Conclusion: Even if the desire for a life without glasses is understandable – it is not the right time for laser eye treatment during pregnancy.

Laser eye surgery during breastfeeding – what to consider

After giving birth, many women ask themselves when they can have their eyes lasered. In principle, laser eye treatment is possible again after pregnancy – but not immediately. This is because the hormone balance is not yet fully balanced during breastfeeding, which can continue to affect vision.

What you should look out for:

• Wait for hormonal stabilization
  Visual acuity can still change weeks to months after birth. Laser treatment shouldtherefore only be carried out when the diopters are stable.

• Take breastfeeding into account
  Certain eye drops for aftercare can pass into breast milk. We therefore check individually whether and when treatment during breastfeeding is possible – or whether a later time is more appropriate.

• Individual advice is crucial
  Our recommendation: Take your time to seek advice after the birth. Together we will find the ideal time for treatment, tailored to your health situation and your visual stability.

When eye surgery should be possible again

When will my body be ready for laser eye treatment? The answer depends primarily on whether your visual acuity has stabilized – and this can be determined by a precise preliminary examination by an ophthalmologist or laser center.

How do you recognize treatment maturity?

• Stable dioptre values for at least 6 months
  Visual acuity should no longer fluctuate – a typical sign that the hormonal balance has normalized. No more hormonal fluctuations.

• Unchanged corneal thickness and curvature
  A constant corneal structure is crucial for precise laser correction.

• No severe symptoms of dry eyes
  The surface of the eye must be stable – especially in women who suffer from dryness or sensitivity to light during breastfeeding.

Typical time frame:

• At the earliest 3 months after weaning, preferably 6 months after the end of breastfeeding

• After a birth without breastfeeding: about 6 months after delivery, depending on hormonal stabilization

Advice and suitability for laser eye surgery in the context of pregnancy

Every pregnancy is unique – just like your eyes. If you are currently pregnant, breastfeeding or planning laser eye surgery in the future and are wondering when the right time is, then a personal consultation is the best next step.

At Smartlaser, we take time for your situation. We clarify whether and when you are a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery, discuss individual treatment options and find the optimal moment for your treatment together – taking into account your health, your life plan and your well-being.

Arrange a non-binding consultation now – even before your pregnancy. Because good decisions start with good information.

Make an appointment