Purpose: Our objectives were to determine the anatomical and functional (visual and refractive) outcomes of corneal refractive surgery during breastfeeding and to compare the results with those of women who stopped breastfeeding at least 3 months before the procedure. We also evaluated predictability, safety, and efficacy indexes; number of retreatments; and adverse effects reported in babies.
Methods: We performed a multicenter, retrospective, interventional case series review of patients who were breastfeeding and who underwent laser in situ keratomileusis or surface ablation (photorefractive keratectomy) from September 11, 2002 to December 12, 2017 (group 1, n = 142 eyes in the case group). Patients were compared with women who stopped breastfeeding at least 3 months before the procedure from September 11, 2002 to December 12, 2017 (group 2, n = 95 eyes in the control group). A total of 168 women (237 eyes) were included. Patients were incorporated consecutively. Functional (visual and refractive) and anatomical outcomes are described.
Results: No significant intraoperative or postoperative complications were recorded. There were no significant differences between the groups in visual acuity, postoperative spherical equivalent, efficacy index, predictability, safety index, or retreatments. No infants experienced adverse effects.
Conclusions: In our experience, laser in situ keratomileusis and photorefractive keratectomy can be performed effectively and safely in breastfeeding women.