Regarding retinal tears?
Hello Doctor: I visited for a sudden onset of severe floaters today, and after examination, it was found that I have a retinal tear.
I underwent laser treatment on-site.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Will the floaters improve or completely disappear after the laser treatment? 2.
Is there a chance of recurrence under normal eye usage after the laser treatment? 3.
If the laser treatment is not performed well, could it worsen my condition and lead to retinal detachment? 4.
During the laser procedure, although I tried to follow the doctor's instructions to relax and look straight ahead, I was too nervous and kept closing my eyes and moving my eyeballs.
Will this affect the treatment outcome? 5.
When experiencing floaters, I feel like they are primarily seen in my right eye (since my right eye is not myopic and I usually use it for distance vision), but the tear is only in my left eye (both eyes underwent dilation examination).
Is this normal? Thank you, Doctor, for taking the time to answer my questions.
Fei wen tui san!, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/07
Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Hello, the laser treatment does not affect the symptoms of floaters.
Retinal detachment is caused by excessive traction from the vitreous, which is unrelated to laser treatment.
Floaters are named for the symptoms they present and are not directly related to the presence of holes.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of the Ophthalmology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Reply Date: 2018/03/07
More Info
Hello! It sounds like you have been through quite a lot with your eye health, and I appreciate your detailed questions regarding your recent diagnosis of a retinal hole and the subsequent laser treatment. Let’s address your concerns one by one.
1. Will the floaters improve or completely disappear after laser treatment?
After laser treatment for a retinal hole, some patients may notice a reduction in the appearance of floaters, while others may find that the floaters persist. The laser treatment primarily aims to seal the retinal hole and prevent further complications, such as retinal detachment. Floaters are often a result of changes in the vitreous gel of the eye, and while they may become less noticeable over time, they may not completely disappear.
2. Is there a risk of recurrence after laser treatment under normal eye usage?
Generally, if the laser treatment was successful in sealing the retinal hole, the risk of recurrence is low. However, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and maintain regular follow-up appointments with your eye care professional. If you experience any new symptoms, such as an increase in floaters or flashes of light, you should contact your doctor immediately.
3. Could improper laser treatment lead to retinal detachment?
While laser treatment is designed to prevent complications like retinal detachment, there is always a small risk associated with any procedure. If the laser treatment is not performed adequately, or if there are other underlying issues with the retina, there is a potential risk for detachment. However, this is relatively rare, and your eye doctor will take great care to ensure the procedure is done correctly.
4. Does being nervous and closing my eyes during the procedure affect the outcome?
It’s understandable to feel anxious during a medical procedure, especially one involving your eyes. While it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions, a momentary closing of your eyes or slight movement may not significantly impact the overall effectiveness of the treatment. However, it’s best to communicate your feelings of anxiety to your doctor beforehand, as they may have techniques to help you feel more comfortable during the procedure.
5. Is it normal to perceive floaters in one eye while having a retinal hole in the other?
Yes, it is entirely possible to experience floaters in one eye while having a retinal hole in the other. Floaters can be caused by various factors, including changes in the vitreous gel, and they do not necessarily correlate with the presence of a retinal hole. It’s important to monitor both eyes and report any changes in vision to your eye care provider.
In summary, after experiencing a retinal hole and undergoing laser treatment, it is crucial to maintain regular follow-ups with your eye doctor to monitor your recovery and any changes in your vision. While floaters may persist, the primary goal of the treatment is to prevent further complications. Always feel free to discuss any concerns or symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they can offer personalized advice and reassurance based on your specific situation. Take care of your eye health, and I wish you a smooth recovery!
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