Lens replacement surgery can be suitable if you take blood thinners, but careful planning with your medical team is needed.
Risks and adjustments with blood thinners
Blood thinners, such as warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants, or antiplatelet tablets, reduce clotting. They slightly increase the chance of bruising or bleeding during any operation, including eye surgery.
- Your surgeon will ask exactly which medicines you take and why
- In many cataract-style surgeries, tablets are continued to avoid stroke or clot risk
- Occasionally, doses are adjusted or paused after advice from your physician
- Small bruises on the white of the eye are common and usually harmless
- Serious bleeding inside the eye is rare but discussed during consent
How safety is managed
Close communication between your eye surgeon and GP or cardiologist keeps you safe. Never stop blood thinners without clear medical advice.
- Pre-operative blood tests or clotting checks may be arranged
- Surgery is planned under gentle local anaesthetic to minimise trauma
- Pressure and vision are monitored closely after the procedure
- Report any sudden pain, vision loss, or large dark patches immediately
- Most people on blood thinners recover smoothly with standard aftercare
