Retinal Detachment Treatment

Diagnosing Retinal Detachment

Diagnosing retinal detachment at Clinica London involves a precise examination by the retinal surgical specialist. Your ophthalmologist will conduct a dilated eye exam, using drops to widen your pupil for a clear retina view. This painless procedure is essential for identifying any tears or a detached retina.  

Diagnostic imaging will also likely be required with wide-field photography by scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO) and ocular coherence tomography (OCT) of the macula and retina. Our diagnostic retinal screening uses the Heidelberg Spectralis OCT (Ocular Coherence Tomography). This non-invasive imaging test uses light waves to take photographs of the back of your eye and shows the different layers of your retina. OCT is a cutting-edge clinical retinal imaging technology that combines scanning laser fundus imaging with high-resolution.  

Patients are advised to come with a companion who can help and guide them after the exam since the examination involves pupil dilation, which can temporarily blur vision.  

Our consultants, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and expertise, ensure a precise diagnosis, guiding you swiftly towards the appropriate treatment path. Early detection is crucial, and our commitment is to provide accurate and comprehensive care to safeguard your vision. Catching the retinal tear and retinal detachment early is important to provide the optimal treatment and preserve central vision.  

Recovery & Aftercare 

Although significant, retinal detachment surgery is usually not accompanied by significant pain. Patients may potentially encounter mild discomfort, which tends to be tolerable with over-the-counter pain medicine such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.   

Post-surgery, it is common to see redness in the white of the eye and to experience eyelid swelling and watering from the operated eye. This will gradually improve over time. Vision in the operated eye will initially be blurred and may take several weeks or months to improve, especially if a gas or liquid has been put in the eye at virectomy. The extent of vision recovery largely depends on the type of retinal detachment initially diagnosed.  

If vitrectomy has been performed and a gas or liquid put into the eye, the patient may be required to do special posturing for several hours a day at home for the first few days, to enable the gas or fluid to internally tamponade the retina and hole.  

Most patients are given eye drops and specific instructions to reduce discomfort and prevent infection. These drops are critical for healing and should be used as directed until the next appointment.  

Note that although bathing and showering are permitted, patients should avoid getting water in their eyes. Driving should also be avoided in the first few weeks after the procedure. The ability of an individual to resume normal activities is mainly determined by the type of surgery performed and the individual’s level of comfort.  

Most individuals require at least two weeks off work. This period may extend, especially if there is gas in the eye, which can impair vision and affect the ability to judge distance. The duration of leave from work should be discussed with your surgeon, taking into consideration the nature of your job and the type of surgery undertaken. 

Posturing 

Your surgeon will instruct you on specific posturing techniques to enhance the effectiveness of the gas or oil bubble used during your retinal surgery. Post-operative posturing is a crucial aspect of the recovery process, requiring you to position your head to allow the gas or oil bubble to support the retina’s healing optimally. The exact posture needed varies based on individual cases, and your surgeon will guide you to the most effective position for your particular situation. 

It is vital to adhere to these instructions, typically maintaining the position for at least 45 minutes every hour during the day. The brief intervals when you are not posturing should be used for gentle movement, helping to alleviate any discomfort or general body aches. Your commitment to these posturing guidelines is vital for a successful recovery and the long-term efficacy of the retinal treatment. 

Please keep in mind that it is a common misunderstanding that vision will improve quickly after retinal detachment surgery.  Vision restoration is a long process, and in certain cases where the macula is detached, full original vision may not be restored. 

In addition, despite popular belief, complete, long-term postoperative care is required. An ophthalmologist will follow the operated eye for years; repeat surgery may be required in some cases. 

Clinica London offers patients complete support and advice to help individuals navigate this phase successfully, offering the best possible recovery and visual restoration.