There are a few different procedures one can undergo after a retinal tear is detected so in order to know what to expect after laser surgery for retinal tear, you would need to know which procedure you can expect first.
It’s important to note that if you did not already seek out help for a retinal tear, that the risks are not worth the reward and to contact Dr El Annan to schedule an appointment below. The longer you wait the higher risk for permanent retinal detachment and loss of vision.
When wondering what the post surgery experience is for a retinal tear, the first step is what happens before, so remember to treat it promptly and if you want to understand other preventative measures you can check out more information here.
There are a few different treatments that can occur and we’re including what to expect after laser surgery for retinal tear below:
Pneumatic Retinopexy - is an outpatient surgery used for certain types of retinal detachments repairs. The eye is numbed with local anesthetic and a gas bubble injected into the middle of your eye. The bubble is manipulated until it arrives at the detached area. The tear is then sealed up in the retina using a freezing probe or laser beam.
What To Expect After: Gas will gradually disappear within days/weeks and note to avoid flying within the first 2-6 weeks.
Scleral Buckle – is a surgery performed in the operating room either under local or general anesthetic. The procedure involves a piece of silicone plastic or sponge being sewn onto the site of a retinal tear to move the sclera towards it. The ‘buckle’ holds the retinal tear against the sclera, the tear is then sealed using a freezing probe or laser beam. When the tear seals fluid under the retina gets absorbed.
What To Expect After: The buckle will remain in place indefinitely.
Vitrectomy Surgery - is an outpatient surgery and involves the removal and replacement of the vitreous gel from the eye, and attaching the retina with the help of lasers to retinal breaks, and injecting gas or silicon into the eye to hold the retina in place until it seals. After surgery, most people can go home after being observed for a short while.
What To Expect After The oil will stay in place and needs another surgery to come out, and a follow-up is to be expected.
If you have spotted a tear before surgery is necessary this could potentially result in an in-office visit for a procedure using a laser (light to seal the hole before the retina detaches) or a cryopexy procedure (to freeze the hole.)
What To Expect After: A recovery period of about 10-14 days and highly suggested rest for the first week after the laser.
So if you’re wondering what to expect after laser surgery for retinal tear, we have all your bases covered. Although depending on your retinal procedure we can say what most have in common is a refrain from heavy exercise, recommended resting and continuous eye exams.
If you think you are suffering from a retinal tear, please schedule a visit with Dr. El Annan at the Annan Retina Eye Center. Please call 346-222-6626 to speak to a member of staff who will be more than happy to help you.
