Check these facts on detached retina

A retina is a thin layer of tissue that contains the cells responsible for sending visual signals to the brain. A detached retina is when the thin layer at the back of the eye) becomes loose. It needs to be treated quickly to stop it from permanently affecting the vision. If left untreated, a detached retina can lead to blindness.  A retina specialist can examine the retina and the blood vessels that supply it and suggest the appropriate course of treatment.   Here are some of the facts about the detached retina:

1. Symptoms of a detached retina:

  • Suddenly flashes of light will appear in the vision 
  • Dots or lines suddenly appear in your vision or suddenly increase in number
  • Your vision suddenly gets blurred
  • You may have a dark “shadow” moving across your vision

2. How is a detached retina tear diagnosed?

A detached retina is not visible from the outside of the eye. Only a comprehensive eye exam can detect them. Your eye doctor will use a light magnification instrument to view the inside of your eye.

3. Treatment for a detached retina:

If you experience symptoms such as flashing lights or floaters, it is important to see an ophthalmologist right away. They will perform a number of tests to determine whether or not the retina is affected. If the tests show that the retina can be detached, you will be referred to a retina specialist who will perform surgery to prevent the problem from getting worse.

There are several different treatment options available for a detached retina, depending on the severity of the condition. Here are some common surgical  procedures used to treat detached retina: 

  • Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the area around the retina to seal it back in place.
  • Laser surgery: A laser is used to weld the retina back to the eye wall. In some cases, a detached retina can be treated with medication or a special type of contact lens. Here’s a useful read on laser surgery for retinal tear.

4. What happens during surgery for a detached retina or tear?

Surgery to fix a retinal tear or re-attach the retina may involve:

  • Replacing or removing the jelly inside your eye.
  • To push the retina against the back of your eye, inject a bubble of gas into your eye.
  • To push the wall of your eye attach a small band around your eye.
  • Seal the tear in your retina with a freezing treatment.
  •  During surgery you’re awake but your eye is numbed. 

Recovery time after retinal surgery varies from one patient to another. But as a general guide, after surgery:

  • Your eye may be sore and red 
  • Your vision may be blurry
  • You may not be able to drive
  • You may need to take time off work
  • You may need to avoid flying

Looking for a retina specialist in Kolkata?

If you live in Kolkata and are searching the internet with the phrases such as “retina specialist near me”  or ‘best retina specialist my location’, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have retina specialists who have extensive experience in treating a wide range of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and retinal tear and diabetic retinopathy. To consult our retina specialist, visit the nearest branch.

Laser Surgery for the Retinal Tear: How Long Does It Take for the Eye to Heal?

retina specialist
The retina is a thin lining at the back of the eyes which helps them to see. Normally, the retina is attached to a gel-like substance called vitreous. When the vitreous gel starts to tug away from the retina it can lead to tears in the retina. Retinal tear is a medical emergency. When left untreated it can lead to loss of vision. A
retina specialist is likely to go for laser surgery to seal any breaks or holes in the retina and prevent the retina from detaching.  Here we share useful insights on laser surgery for the retinal tear and how long it takes for the eye to heal: 

  • Types of surgeries for retinal tear:

  • Retinal laser photocoagulation: The retinal laser photocoagulation procedure involves the use of a high-energy laser to create tiny burns on the retina. These burns help to seal off blood vessels that are leaking fluid or causing bleeding. In addition, burns can help to shrink abnormal blood vessels. Retinal laser photocoagulation is often used to treat diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and retinal vein occlusion. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Recovery time is typically short and you can return to your normal activities within a few days. Retinal laser photocoagulation is a safe and effective procedure. 
  • Vitrectomy: Vitrectomy is a type of eye surgery that is used to treat a number of conditions that affect the retina, the gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye. The most common reason for vitrectomy surgery is to remove a vitreous hemorrhage, or bleeding within the eye. Other conditions that may be treated with vitrectomy surgery include retinal detachments, macular holes and diabetic retinopathy. During the procedure, an incision is made in the white of the eye and a small probe is inserted into the eye. The retina specialist then uses the probe to remove the vitreous gel and any other issues that are causing problems. Vitrectomy surgery usually takes about an hour to complete and patients can typically go home the same day. Recovery from surgery takes several weeks, during which time you will need to avoid strenuous activity and wear an eye patch.

  • How much time does surgery take?

Laser surgery is a common treatment for retinal tears. The surgery usually takes less than 30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that you won’t need to stay in the hospital overnight. However, pre-surgery and post-surgery observation may take time 

  • So, how long does it take an eye to heal after laser surgery for a retinal tear?

The severity of the retinal tear determines the healing period. The longer the retina stays in a torn condition, the lower will be chances of complete visual recovery.

  • Precautions to be taken after surgery: 

Here are some common precautions to take after surgery: 

  • Follow the instructions of the retina specialist. 
  • Restrict from doing heavy physical activities. 
  • Ask your retina specialist before resuming any activity involving muscle exertion. 
  • Always keep your hands clean and avoid rubbing or touching your eye. 
  • Follow the prescription of the eye drops. 
  • Wear an eye shield for at least one week post-operation or til the time the retina specialist tells you to. 

Looking for a retina specialist in West Bengal? 

If you live in West Bengal and are searching the internet with the phrases such as “retina specialist near me”  or ‘retina specialist in Kolkata’ visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have retinal specialists who have extensive experience in treating a wide range of retina conditions such as retinal tear, retinal detachment and diabetic retinopathy. To consult our retinal specialist, visit the nearest branch