---
title: Is ICL surgery suitable if you have herpes eye infection?
description: "ICL surgery can be considered in some patients with a past herpes eye infection, but only when the disease is fully quiet and risk carefully weighed. ## Conditions that may allow ICL surgery If herpes keratitis has been inactive for…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/suitability/is-icl-surgery-suitable-if-you-have-herpes-eye-infection/"
updated: "2025-12-31"
category: Suitability
---

# Is ICL surgery suitable if you have herpes eye infection?

ICL surgery can be considered in some patients with a past herpes eye infection, but only when the disease is fully quiet and risk carefully weighed.

## Conditions that may allow ICL surgery

If herpes keratitis has been inactive for a long period and the cornea is clear and stable, surgery might be an option. Antiviral prophylaxis is often used around the time of surgery.

- Long remission without recent flare-ups is reassuring
- Scarring must not significantly distort the cornea or reduce vision potential
- Ocular surface health and tear film are assessed in detail
- Patients are informed about the slightly higher reactivation risk

## Situations where ICL may be unsafe

Frequent or severe herpes episodes, especially involving deeper corneal layers, can flare after surgery. In such cases, non-surgical options or different procedures may be safer.

- Active or recently active infection is a clear reason to delay
- Significant scarring or thinning may limit visual benefit
- Systemic immune problems can increase reactivation risk
- A corneal specialist's opinion is often sought before proceeding