Retinal detachment surgery to preserve your sight
Retina Consultants, P.C. prides itself in serving Hartford, Cromwell, Farmington, Manchester, Enfield, and central Connecticut with highly specialized services and unmatched expertise. So, while the term “retinal detachment” may sound intimidating, you are in extremely good hands with our retina specialists and the array of technologies to complement their knowledge and experience.
Below, our team has answered some common questions that we get from patients about treating this condition with surgery.
Does retinal detachment need to be treated right away?
Retinal detachment is a serious condition that occurs when the thin tissue at the back of the eye (your retina) becomes separated from its normal position and blood supply. This separation deprives the retina of the oxygen and nutrients that it needs. It is considered to be an eye emergency because retinal detachment can quickly and, in some cases, permanently damage your vision. Our specialists may recommend surgery as soon as is reasonably possible after diagnosis.
Does retinal detachment always cause obvious symptoms?
People may dismiss symptoms of retinal detachment because they might expect all such eye emergencies to cause pain. However, as with all eye conditions, a lack of pain does not mean the problem is minor. While retinal detachment is not associated with pain, you should always tell your doctor if you notice any changes in your vision. Symptoms of retinal detachment often include:
- More “floaters” that appear suddenly
- Flashes of light, frequently in dim light and affecting peripheral vision
- Changes that affect only one eye rather than both eyes at once
Do retinal detachments always need surgery?
Fully detached retinas cannot be reattached through nonsurgical means. However, there are different surgical treatment methods to prevent vision loss and preserve your sight. These procedures include scleral buckle, which involves placing a flexible band outside of the eye to gently push the eye wall toward the detached retina. Pneumatic retinopexy concerns injecting a gas bubble into the eye to push the unattached retina back into place. Once repositioned, the area is sealed with laser or freezing treatment. Lastly, vitrectomy is a sophisticated procedure that removes the vitreous gel inside the eye and repairs the retina directly.
How do you know what procedure is best for me?
Our specialists can only treat what they accurately understand. So, they emphasize state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to provide a complete picture of your needs. Each treatment plan is tailored to those needs, and is based on factors such as the type and location of the detachment, its severity, and your eye health and overall physical health.
Are some treatments more commonly used than others?
All of the treatments mentioned above are well-established; however, vitrectomy is frequently chosen for individuals with complex detachments, certain types of tears, and those with considerable pulling on the retina (vitreous traction). Sometimes, vitrectomy is combined with other procedures (such as scleral buckling).
What should I expect after surgery?
We will go over everything to expect, including risks and aftercare, in advance of treatment. The primary goal of surgery is to reattach the retina and protect as much of your sight as possible. There are several factors that can affect your outcomes, including how long the retina was detached before surgery, if the macula or central part of the retina was involved, the presence of other eye conditions (like macular degeneration), and if complications arise during or after your treatment.
As retina specialists, you can trust our knowledge and capabilities at Retina Consultants, P.C. So, do not delay in contacting us if you are concerned about changes in your vision or eye health. We are in the best possible position to help you. Call to speak with a member of our team at one of our five area offices.
Hartford
Manchester
Cromwell
Farmington
