Why Smoking is Discouraged Before Vision Correction Surgery

If you’re planning to have LASIK or any type of vision correction surgery, quitting smoking isn’t just a suggestion—it’s one of the most imperative steps you can take to protect your results. While most people know smoking harms the lungs and heart, many don’t realize the damage it causes to the eyes or how deeply it can interfere with healing after surgery. 

So, why is it important to quit smoking before LASIK— and how can you accomplish it effectively, even in a short amount of time? Let’s break it down. 

LASIK is a precision-based procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct vision. Recovery depends on healthy tear production, oxygen flow, immune response and inflammation control—systems that smoking directly harms. 

Here’s what happens when you stop smoking before LASIK:

  1. Better Tear Productions and Eye Comfort

Smokers often struggle with dry, irritated eyes due to reduced tear quality. This becomes a bigger issue after LASIK, where dry eye symptoms can temporarily worsen. The good news? Tear function begins to improve just 1-2 weeks after quitting, making your post-op experience more comfortable and your vision more stable. 

  1.  Lower Inflammation and Fewer Complications

Cigarette smoke triggers chronic inflammation, making it harder for your eyes to heal after surgery. Quitting 3-4 weeks before LASIK reduces inflammatory markers in the body, leading to faster healing and fewer post-op complications. 

  1. Improved Oxygen and Nutrient Delivery

Your cornea relies on oxygen to heal, but smoking decreases blood flow and reduces oxygen levels in your tissues. Within 48 hours of quitting, oxygenation improves, giving your eyes a stronger foundation for recovery. 

  1. Stronger Immune Response

Smoking suppresses immune function, increasing your risk of post-op infection or delayed healing. Stopping even a few weeks before surgery helps your immune system bounce back, protecting your results and overall eye health. 

The ideal timeline to quit smoking is 4 to 8 weeks before surgery. This allows your tear film, immune system and vascular function time to reset. While quitting even a few days before your procedure can improve oxygenation and reduce airway risks (especially if sedation is used), longer smoke-free periods offer the most benefit. 

Quitting can feel overwhelming, but there are several strategies that can help you succeed, even on a tight time-frame: 

  • Set a Quit Date: Pick a clear deadline at least 4 weeks before your surgery
  • Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Patches, lozenges or gum can help manage cravings while reducing your exposure to harmful smoke
  • Try Apps or Support Groups: Free tools like QuitNow or SmokefreeTXT can offer daily motivation and support
  • Talk to Your Doctor: Your eye surgeon or primary care provider can recommend medications or personalized quitting plans
  • Replace the Habit: Chew gum, drink water or take a brisk walk when cravings hit
  • Avoid Triggers: Stay away from situations, people or routines when you’re tempted to smoke

If you’re investing in LASIK, give yourself the best chance for a smooth recovery and optimal results. Quitting smoking isn’t just a healthy bonus—it’s essential for protecting your LASIK results. Studies show that smokers heal slower, face high risks of post-op dry eyes and are more prone to infection and corneal complications. If you keep smoking, you aren’t just gambling with your recovery—you’re undermining the very results you’re paying for. Give your vision every advantage by quitting before surgery. 
For more information, contact Great Plains Eye Specialists at 605-718-5123 or WEBSITE.