Retinal Laser Repair: Vision Loss Concerns Explained

Retinal thinning repair laser treatment for vision loss?

Hello Dr.
He, I have high myopia (about -5.00 to -6.00 diopters in both eyes) along with a lot of floaters.
Around mid-January, I went to a large hospital for an eye examination.
After a dilated fundus examination, the doctor mentioned that there was a very thin area on my right retina (which the doctor noticed when I looked upward).
He advised that if I didn’t undergo laser treatment, I should be cautious.
He recommended immediate laser treatment, which was performed on-site.
Afterward, I was prescribed eye drops and asked to return for a follow-up in mid-February.
After returning home, I didn’t feel any discomfort and used the eye drops as instructed.
However, I noticed that my vision in the laser-treated eye seems to have decreased.
When watching TV, I find that the subtitles appear blurrier in my right eye compared to my left eye, indicating a noticeable decline in vision.
Since I often test my vision with one eye at a time, I can feel that the vision in my right eye has indeed worsened after the laser treatment.
During my follow-up in February, the doctor said that the laser treatment performed previously was fine and advised me to return in three months.
When I inquired about the reason for my vision decline, the doctor responded that the laser treatment would not affect vision and that it was unrelated to my vision decrease.
However, I truly believe that my vision in the treated right eye has deteriorated.
I still experience some blurriness when watching TV with my right eye.
I have two questions I would like to ask you.
I apologize for the lengthy message, and I appreciate your response.
Thank you.
1.
Is it really advisable to perform laser treatment for a thin area on the retina? I have seen other doctors online mention that laser treatment is not necessary unless there is a tear, which makes me feel like the decision to proceed with the treatment was somewhat rushed.
2.
Is it normal for vision to decline after retinal laser repair in my case? What could be the main cause? Should I consider switching to another hospital for a check-up? (The vision loss is not severe, but there is a noticeable decline compared to my left eye.)

Hu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/23

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

1.
If thinning is observed, it is recommended to undergo laser treatment.
2.
Generally, this type of treatment does not affect vision; however, if you have concerns, you may seek a second opinion from another ophthalmologist.

Reply Date: 2018/04/23

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding retinal laser repair and the associated vision loss. It's understandable to feel anxious about changes in your vision, especially after undergoing a procedure like laser treatment for a thin retina. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Is it advisable to perform laser repair on a thin area of the retina?
The decision to perform laser treatment on a thin retina often depends on several factors, including the degree of thinning, the presence of any symptoms (like flashes or floaters), and the overall risk of retinal detachment. In many cases, doctors recommend laser treatment as a preventive measure to strengthen the retina and reduce the risk of future complications, such as retinal tears or detachments. While some practitioners may suggest that not all thin areas require immediate intervention, the consensus in the ophthalmology community is that proactive treatment can be beneficial, especially in patients with high myopia (like yourself) who are at a higher risk for retinal issues. It’s always a good idea to seek a second opinion if you feel uncertain about the treatment plan, but it sounds like your doctor acted based on a thorough examination.

2. Is it normal to experience vision loss after retinal laser repair?
Experiencing some changes in vision after laser treatment can occur, but it’s essential to differentiate between normal post-operative changes and concerning symptoms. Laser treatment can cause temporary swelling or changes in the retinal structure, which might lead to a perception of blurred vision. However, if you notice a significant or persistent decrease in vision, it’s crucial to follow up with your ophthalmologist. They can perform a comprehensive examination to determine if the vision changes are related to the laser treatment or if there are other underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In your case, since you mentioned that the vision in your right eye has noticeably declined compared to your left, it would be prudent to return to your eye doctor sooner than the scheduled follow-up if you have concerns. They can assess the retina's condition and ensure that there are no complications from the laser procedure.
Additionally, keep in mind that factors such as dry eyes, fatigue, or even the effects of high myopia can contribute to visual changes. If you are experiencing discomfort or other symptoms, such as flashes of light or an increase in floaters, these should be reported to your doctor immediately.

In conclusion, while laser treatment for a thin retina is often recommended as a preventive measure, any noticeable decline in vision post-treatment should be evaluated. Don’t hesitate to seek further evaluation if you feel your concerns are not being adequately addressed. Your vision is important, and ensuring its health is paramount. Thank you for your questions, and I hope this information helps clarify your situation!

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