If you have been recommended to undergo laser photocoagulation, you are bound to have questions. Here we have curated a list of frequently asked questions and their answers on laser photocoagulation and the eye laser treatment cost that you will find useful:
Question 1: What is laser photocoagulation used for?
Laser photocoagulation is laser eye treatment that is used to treat retinal conditions. The laser eye treatment is done to prevent the worsening of retinal disorders and reduce the risk of potential vision loss.
Question 2: What does laser photocoagulation do?
This laser eye treatment is used to seal off a tear or leaking blood vessels. It can also slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye. The procedure cannot restore vision that is already lost, but it can reduce your risk of experiencing future vision loss.
Question 3: For what eye conditions is laser photocoagulation used?
This laser eye treatment is used to treat retinal conditions such as
- Retinal tears
- Retinal detachment
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular edema
- Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)
Question 4: Who performs laser photocoagulation?
Retina specialists perform laser photocoagulation. They are ophthalmologists who specialise in diseases of the retina. This gives them special training to safely perform laser photocoagulation.
Question 5: Is retinal laser photocoagulation painful?
The laser eye treatment is performed under topical anaesthesia. This is done to reduce the pain. The procedure is relatively painless and you may just feel a mild pricking sensation during the surgery. The entire procedure takes 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the retinal disease being treated.
Question 6: How long does laser photocoagulation take to heal?
Well, the recovery time varies from two to three weeks. The exact recovery time will vary from one person to another, depending on the age, type of retinal disorder and general health.
Question 7: Is laser photocoagulation safe?
Yes, this laser eye treatment is both safe and effective in the treatment of retina disorders. However, just like any surgery, there are some associated risks involved. Talk to your retinal specialist about these before proceeding with surgery.
Question 8: Will I have pain?
You may have some discomfort around your treated eye. Your ophthalmologist is likely to prescribe your pain-relievers. However, you must contact your eye doctor in case of severe pain and discomfort.
Question 9: When can I wear contact lenses after laser photocoagulation?
Generally, you can wear your contact lenses once the redness has gone. This is usually within two to three days after the laser eye treatment.
Question 10: Can I drive home after laser photocoagulation?
No, you cannot drive home the same after having the laser treatment done. You can drive the next day or when your ophthalmologist gives a go-ahead. However, if you are having vision problems, you should wait until you feel comfortable driving and your ophthalmologist says that it is safe for you to drive.
Question 11: When can I resume work after photocoagulation?
You should take off work the day of your procedure. You will probably be able to return to work the following day. If your work is physical, you must ask your doctor when you can return to work.
Question 12: What can you not do after photocoagulation laser?
Here are some precautions you should take after laser eye treatment :
- Don’t take a shower or wash your hair until the day after.
- Don’t rub your eyes.
- Use all eye drops, including artificial tears, that are prescribed by your doctor.
- Wear the eye shield the doctor gave you while you sleep for the first week.
- Keep tap water out of your eyes for at least a week.
- Avoid swimming pools for at least 3 to 4 weeks.
- No eye makeup for at least a week.
- No exercise for two days.
- Avoid dusty environments.
- Avoid bright sunshine. Wear sunglasses on bright days.
Looking for laser eye treatment in Kolkata?
We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, have YAG laser for laser eye treatment. It is used in retinal, cataract and glaucoma therapy. It is optimal for photocoagulation, post-cataract treatments, laser trabeculoplasty and combined iridotomy. To know the eye laser treatment cost, book an appointment at your nearest branch