Can Patients with Retinal Detachment Surgery Get the COVID Vaccine? - Ophthalmology

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Inquiry about COVID-19 vaccination?


Hello Dr.
Gao Pilin! I apologize for taking up your time.
May I ask if a person who has undergone retinal detachment surgery (including cryotherapy, gas injection, and laser treatment) can receive the COVID-19 vaccine? Thank you for your response!

Xiao Gao, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/21

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello Mr.
Gao: There should be no correlation between retinal detachment surgery and vaccine administration; I have not heard of any such cases.
Information found online should only be used as a reference.
If necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
Best regards, Gao Pilin.

Reply Date: 2021/07/21

More Info


Patients who have undergone retinal detachment surgery, including procedures such as cryotherapy, gas tamponade, and laser treatment, can generally receive the COVID-19 vaccine. There is no direct contraindication for vaccination in individuals who have had this type of eye surgery. The primary considerations for vaccination are related to the patient's overall health status and any specific contraindications related to the vaccine itself.

The COVID-19 vaccines, including the Moderna vaccine, have been shown to be safe and effective for the general population. The main contraindications for receiving the vaccine include a history of severe allergic reactions to components of the vaccine or a previous severe allergic reaction to a dose of the same vaccine. For patients who have undergone retinal surgery, it is crucial to ensure that their recovery is stable and that they are not experiencing any acute complications from the surgery before proceeding with vaccination.

It is also important to consider the timing of the vaccine in relation to the surgery. If the surgery was recent, patients should consult with their ophthalmologist to ensure that they are in a stable condition and that there are no ongoing issues that could complicate the vaccination process. For example, if a patient is experiencing significant inflammation or infection in the eye, it may be advisable to wait until those issues are resolved before getting vaccinated.

In addition, patients who have undergone retinal detachment surgery may be on medications such as corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive agents, which could potentially affect their immune response to the vaccine. While there is currently no evidence suggesting that these medications would significantly diminish the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine, it is always best to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.

Moreover, it is essential for patients to maintain good communication with their healthcare providers regarding their recovery and any potential side effects they may experience after vaccination. Monitoring for any unusual symptoms after receiving the vaccine is crucial, especially for those who have had recent eye surgery.

In summary, patients who have had retinal detachment surgery can typically receive the COVID-19 vaccine, provided they are in a stable condition and have no specific contraindications related to the vaccine. It is always best to consult with both the ophthalmologist and the healthcare provider administering the vaccine to ensure a safe and effective vaccination experience.

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