It is advisable to postpone LASIK surgery if you have a cold, especially if symptoms are moderate to severe.
Having a cold can increase the risk of complications during and after LASIK surgery, including potential infections and delayed healing.
LASIK surgery is a life-changing procedure that corrects common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. While it offers an incredible opportunity for better vision, certain factors can render you temporarily unsuitable for the surgery. One such factor is having a cold. This blog explains why a cold can impact your eligibility for LASIK and what to do in such situations.
How Does Having a Cold Affect LASIK Surgery?
Your Body’s Immune Response Is Compromised
When experiencing a cold, the immune system actively works to combat the infection. This could leave your body less capable of handling the demands of surgery and the healing process. LASIK is a minimally invasive procedure, but like any surgical treatment, it temporarily disrupts your body’s natural defences. Compromised immunity could lead to slower recovery and a higher chance of post-operative complications.
Increased Risk of Cross-Contamination
The common cold is typically characterized by symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and nasal congestion. These are not just symptoms but potential carriers of germs that could expose both you and the surgical team to infection. A clean, sterile environment is crucial for LASIK surgery, and your cold could jeopardise that hygiene standard, increasing the risk of contamination.
Eye Dryness Can Worsen
Colds are often accompanied by dehydration, which can lead to dry eyes. LASIK surgery requires optimal eye hydration for successful outcomes. If your eyes are dry before surgery, the procedure could exacerbate this condition, causing discomfort during recovery and possibly affecting your vision results.
Difficulty in Following Post-Operative Care
Recovering from LASIK involves following specific aftercare instructions, such as avoiding rubbing your eyes and applying prescribed eye drops regularly. When you’re unwell, fatigue and discomfort may make it hard to adhere to these essential guidelines. Failing to follow post-operative care correctly can hinder your healing and increase the risk of complications.
Why Surgeons May Reschedule Your Procedure?
Reduced Surgery Accuracy
Although LASIK involves focusing on a specific target light, modern laser systems are equipped with advanced eye-tracking technology that monitors even the slightest eye movements. If you sneeze or move suddenly due to discomfort from a cold, the laser will automatically pause to maintain precision and safety. This technology significantly reduces the risk of surgical error, but being physically well still ensures smoother execution and better outcomes.
Safety Protocols
Most LASIK surgeons adhere to strict safety protocols to protect both patients and staff. If you show signs of illness, your surgeon may reschedule the procedure to maintain these high safety standards. Ethical practices dictate prioritising overall health and well-being over immediate surgical needs.
Medication Interference
If you’re taking over-the-counter cold remedies, some medications can thin the blood or reduce eye clarity, potentially impacting the surgical process. For instance, decongestants may reduce tear production, worsening dry eye symptoms that could complicate LASIK healing.
What to Do If You’re Sick Before LASIK?
Inform Your Surgeon Immediately
If you develop a cold in the days leading up to your surgery, inform your LASIK clinic right away. Surgeons are accustomed to rescheduling procedures for health-related reasons and will work with you to find the earliest suitable date for your surgery. Transparency ensures the best outcomes for everyone involved.
Evaluate Your Symptoms
Ask yourself the following questions to determine whether your illness might impact the surgery:
- Are you experiencing sneezing, coughing, or a runny nose?
- Do you feel fatigued or weak?
- Are your eyes unusually dry or irritated?
If your symptoms are severe or persistent, it’s a strong indicator that postponement is the safest choice.
Focus on Recovery
Prioritise getting better before rescheduling LASIK. This includes drinking plenty of fluids, getting enough rest, and taking recommended medications as prescribed. Ensure you feel fully healthy before proceeding with the surgery to give yourself the best chance of a successful outcome.
Reschedule Strategically
Work with your LASIK provider to choose a new date that allows enough time for your complete recovery. Surgeons will often require a clean bill of health before proceeding. For example, they may ask you to wait one to two weeks after you’ve recovered from your cold.
How to Prevent Delays in Surgery?
Strengthen Your Immune System
Adopt habits that can enhance your immune health in the weeks leading up to your LASIK surgery. These include eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, exercising regularly, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of sleep.
Manage Allergies Proactively
If your symptoms are due to seasonal allergies rather than a cold, discuss this with your surgeon. They may recommend allergy medications or eye drops to control symptoms before and after the procedure.
Avoid Crowded Places
Minimise your risk of catching a cold by avoiding congested spaces or people who are visibly unwell. Simple measures like washing your hands frequently and using hand sanitiser can also reduce your risk of falling sick before surgery.
Schedule a Convenient Date
Schedule your LASIK procedure during a period when you’re less likely to be exposed to illnesses or stressors that could affect recovery. Stress may compromise the immune system, increasing susceptibility to illness.
When Is It Safe to Proceed with LASIK After a Cold?
At Least 7–10 Days After Symptoms Subside
Surgeons typically advise waiting at least 7 to 10 days after cold symptoms have subsided before proceeding with LASIK. This allows your immune system to return to its optimal state, minimising risks during and after the procedure.
Assessment by Your Surgeon
Before the procedure, your surgeon will conduct a thorough pre-operative examination to ensure your eyes and overall health are in top condition. This step is crucial for confirming your suitability for LASIK.
Support Your Eyes in the Interim
Use lubricating eye drops to address dryness or irritation caused by your illness. Keeping your eyes in good condition will help ensure a smoother recovery post-surgery.
Final Thoughts
Undergoing LASIK surgery when you have a cold is not advisable. Illness can compromise the surgery environment, delay recovery, and reduce your ability to follow essential aftercare. To ensure the best results, prioritise your health and reschedule the procedure if necessary.
If you’re considering LASIK and want expert guidance tailored to your individual health and circumstances, consult with a specialised LASIK surgeon. Your eyes deserve nothing less than the highest level of care.