Post-Retinal Surgery Questions: Floaters, Laser Scarring, and Exercise Safety - Ophthalmology

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Hello, 小陳,
Thank you for your questions regarding your post-retinal surgery experience. It’s understandable to have concerns after such a significant procedure, especially regarding floaters, laser scarring, and exercise safety. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Post-Surgery Floaters: After retinal surgery, it is common for patients to notice an increase in floaters. These floaters are often a result of changes in the vitreous gel and can be exacerbated by the surgery itself. Generally, floaters may take several weeks to months to stabilize. In many cases, the brain learns to ignore them over time, making them less noticeable. However, if you notice a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light, it’s crucial to contact your eye doctor immediately, as this could indicate a potential complication.

2. Laser Scarring and Changes: The laser treatment you received creates a scar tissue that helps to stabilize the retina. Initially, this scar tissue may appear white or translucent, but over time, it can darken and become more defined. The timeline for this change can vary, but typically, you might expect to see changes within a few weeks to a couple of months post-treatment. The exact duration can depend on individual healing processes and the extent of the laser treatment.

3. Exercise Post-Laser Treatment: Regarding your question about jogging after the laser treatment, it’s great that your primary physician has given you the green light to resume running. Generally, once the laser scars have formed and stabilized, light to moderate exercise like jogging is usually safe. However, it’s essential to listen to your body and avoid any activities that cause discomfort or strain. If you feel any unusual symptoms while jogging, such as increased floaters, flashes, or any pain, you should stop and consult your doctor.
In terms of safety, it’s wise to gradually ease back into your exercise routine. Start with shorter distances and lower intensity, and monitor how your eyes respond. If you have any doubts or experience any changes in your vision, don’t hesitate to reach out to your eye care provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while it’s common to experience increased floaters and changes in laser scars post-surgery, these symptoms often improve over time. Your doctor’s advice is crucial, and it’s always best to follow their recommendations while also being mindful of your body’s signals. If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.

Take care, and I wish you a smooth recovery and safe return to your activities!
Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams