ICL surgery can sometimes be performed while on blood thinners, but requires individual assessment and coordination with your medical team.
Issues related to anticoagulation
Bleeding risk must be balanced.
- Small but real risk of bleeding from conjunctival or internal vessels
- Stopping blood thinners may increase stroke or clot risk for some patients
- Different drugs (warfarin, DOACs, antiplatelets) have different management strategies
- Need to check clotting status and overall cardiovascular risk
- Minor intraocular procedures still require careful surgical planning
Typical approach
Decisions are personalised.
- Discussion with cardiologist or physician before altering medication
- In some cases, continuing antiplatelet therapy while operating carefully
- Timing surgery at a point of lowest risk if temporary adjustment is advised
- Considering non‑surgical options if anticoagulation cannot be safely modified
- Ensuring the patient understands both bleeding and clotting risks
