Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that requires urgent surgical intervention in order to prevent permanent visual loss. The retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, is responsible for processing light and transmitting visual signals to the brain. When it detaches from its natural location, vision is reduced, and if left untreated, it can result in permanent blindness. The proven option to repair a retinal detachment is through surgery. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after the treatment can assist to reduce anxiety and facilitate a comfortable recovery. Let’s take a look at the essential steps of preparing for surgery, what happens during the procedure, and the post-operative care required for full recovery.
Preparing for Retinal Detachment Surgery
Proper preparation is essential to a successful operation and recovery. Here are some crucial things to consider before the procedure:
1. Medical Evaluation and Consultation:
To determine the degree of the detachment, your ophthalmologist will do a full eye examination, which may include imaging tests such as an ultrasound or optical coherence tomography (OCT). You should inform your doctor of any medications you are currently taking, including blood thinners, as you may need to discontinue them prior to surgery.
2. Pre-Surgical Instructions:
You may be requested to refrain from eating or drinking for 7-8 hours before the procedure. Make sure to wear comfortable, loose-fitting attire on the day of the operation and avoid applying makeup, lotions, or scents.
3. Considering Anaesthesia Options:
Retinal detachment surgery is typically conducted under general anaesthesia, so you will not be conscious during the surgery. Your anaesthesiologist will examine your medical history to identify the safest anaesthetic option for you.
4. Mentally Preparing for the Procedure:
It is natural to feel nervous, but knowing what to expect will help to alleviate stress. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to approach your doctor. You also need to know that recovery may take several months, and temporary vision issues are normal.
What Happens During Retinal Detachment Surgery?
Retinal detachment surgery seeks to reattach the retina. There are three major surgical techniques, and your ophthalmologist will select one or a combination of these techniques to achieve the highest success rate for retinal reattachment.
Here’s an overview of what happens during surgery:
1. Anaesthesia and Preparation
- The surgical team will disinfect the region around your eye and cover your face with a sterile drape, exposing only the eye.
- General anaesthesia will be administered before the surgery.
2. Surgical Procedure
Scleral Buckling: A flexible silicone band is wrapped around the eye’s sclera (the white area), gently pushing the eye wall against the detached retina. This allows the retina to reattach and remain in place.
Vitrectomy: A small incision is made in the eye to remove the vitreous gel, which may be tugging on the retina. The surgeon next injects a gas bubble or silicone oil into the eye to push the retina back onto the eye wall and provide support for the retina while it is healing.
Pneumatic Retinopexy: A gas bubble is pumped into the eye, compressing the retina against the eye wall. Any retinal tears are subsequently sealed using either laser or cryotherapy.
3. Sealing of Retinal Tears
To prevent future detachments, the surgeon does either laser photocoagulation (a laser that causes small burns around the retinal tear) or cryopexy (a freezing probe that develops scar tissue to seal the tear).
4. Closing the Incisions
The surgeon delicately repairs the incisions with small stitches that usually disappear on their own. If silicone oil is used, a subsequent surgery to remove it may be required once the retina has recovered completely.
5. Immediate Post-Surgery Care
Following the treatment, a protective patch will be placed over your eye. You will be monitored briefly before being allowed to leave on the same day.
Post-Surgery Care: Recovery Timeline and Follow-Up Visits
To recover after retinal detachment surgery, you must be patient and follow your doctor’s recommendations properly. While the actual schedule may differ, here is a rough outline to what you may expect during the healing process:
Recovery Timeline
- First 24-48 Hours: Expect discomfort, redness, and swelling. Blurred vision is common, especially if a gas bubble was used during surgery. Rest as much as possible, and avoid strenuous activities. If gas or silicone oil was used, you will be asked to maintain a certain head posture so as to provide the most support for retinal reattachment.
- First Week: Vision may gradually improve, however it is common to have blurred or distorted vision. To minimise inflammation and prevent infection, use the eye drops that your doctor has prescribed. If required, head posture will have to be maintained throughout the first week as much as possible. Posturing is usually less important or not required after the first week.
- 2-4 weeks: Most patients can resume mild activities, but heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided.
- 1-3 Months: A full recovery may take many months. Your eyesight should continue to improve, although some patients may experience residual visual problems depending on the severity of the detachment.
Dos and Don’ts After Surgery
Dos:
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed to prevent infection and swelling.
- Wear the recommended eye patch or shield to protect your eye.
- Maintain any recommended head positioning, particularly if a gas bubble was employed.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to track your recovery progress.
- Rest and let your eye heal—reduce screen time and reading during the early recovery period.
Don’ts:
- Avoid touching or pressing on your eye as this can interfere with the healing process.
- For a few weeks, avoid hard lifting, bending over, and intense activity.
- If a gas bubble was utilised, do not fly or travel at high altitudes since changes in air pressure can lead to expansion of the gas bubble and increased eye pressure, which can result in permanent visual loss. Air travel is permitted if silicone oil was used instead of gas.
- To limit the risk of illness, avoid swimming pools and hot tubs.
- Do not drive until your doctor permits you, as your vision may still be adjusting.
Follow-Up Visits
- Your initial follow-up appointment will usually be the day after surgery, with subsequent visits over the next few weeks and months.
- During these visits, your ophthalmologist will check your eye pressure, monitor your retinal healing, and evaluate your overall recovery.
- If silicone oil was used, you may need a second surgery to remove it once your retina has stabilised.
Retinal Detachment Surgery at Asia Pacific Eye Centre
At Asia Pacific Eye Centre (APEC) we provide retinal detachment surgery designed to reattach the retina and restore vision. Established in 2007, our centre has performed over 30,000 procedures, ensuring patients receive quality care with modern surgical techniques and personalised treatment plans. From diagnosis to post-surgery care, we prioritise patient well-being, providing a seamless and compassionate experience throughout the treatment journey. If you are experiencing retinal detachment symptoms, book your appointment today at APEC and take the next step towards protecting your vision.
