Cataract surgery is commonly performed while patients remain on blood thinners, but the exact approach depends on the medication and your cardiovascular risk.
Reasons blood thinners are often continued
Modern cataract surgery has a low bleeding risk.
- Small, self‑sealing incisions that rarely cause significant haemorrhage
- Serious clotting events pose greater danger than mild bruising
- Established guidelines often favour continuing therapy for routine cases
- Close cooperation between surgeon, GP, and cardiologist or haematologist
- Use of topical rather than sharp‑needle anaesthetic techniques when appropriate
When changes may be considered
Individual risk-benefit assessment is essential.
- Combined procedures with higher bleeding risk, such as some glaucoma surgeries
- Very high INR or poorly controlled anticoagulation
- History of eye bleeding or complex ocular anatomy
- Temporary dose adjustment or timing surgery at a safer trough level
- Clear written advice on whether to stop, continue, or alter doses
