Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery Vision Changes

Q: Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery Vision Changes

Hello Mr. <br>Hsu： The refractive index of silicone oil can cause your prescription to shift towards hyperopia, so after its removal, it may shift back towards myopia, which is why your vision may appear different than before. <br>You may need to have your vision checked and get

Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery

Doctor, I had silicone oil removed last night, and today my vision seems a bit hazy.
Is this due to just having had surgery? Also, if the silicone oil wasn't completely removed, could there be any long-term effects?

Mr. Hsu, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/11

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Mr.
Hsu: The refractive index of silicone oil can cause your prescription to shift towards hyperopia, so after its removal, it may shift back towards myopia, which is why your vision may appear different than before.
You may need to have your vision checked and get new glasses afterward.
After the silicone oil is removed, there should be minimal residual oil, so there should not be any long-term complications.
The ophthalmology department at E-Hospital in Puzi, Taiwan, is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses are for reference only; it is necessary to seek medical care at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/04/11

More Info

After undergoing retinal detachment surgery, particularly when silicone oil is involved, it is not uncommon to experience various visual changes, including blurred or hazy vision. This can be attributed to several factors related to the surgical procedure and the healing process.

Firstly, the immediate post-operative period is characterized by inflammation and changes in the eye's internal environment. After the removal of silicone oil, the eye may still have residual fluid or gas, which can cause temporary blurriness. Additionally, the eye's tissues, including the retina and the cornea, may be healing, and this healing process can lead to transient visual disturbances. It is essential to understand that the eye requires time to adjust after surgery, and visual clarity may improve as the healing progresses.

Regarding your concern about whether silicone oil was completely removed, it is crucial to follow up with your ophthalmologist. If silicone oil remains in the eye, it can lead to complications such as increased intraocular pressure, persistent blurred vision, or even the development of cataracts. However, the presence of residual silicone oil does not always result in immediate adverse effects, but it may necessitate further intervention if it affects your vision or eye health.

In terms of potential long-term consequences, if silicone oil is not adequately removed, it could lead to complications like emulsification, where the oil breaks down into smaller droplets that can cause inflammation and other issues within the eye. Regular follow-up appointments with your eye care provider are essential to monitor your recovery and address any concerns that may arise.

In summary, experiencing hazy vision after silicone oil removal is typically a part of the healing process. However, it is vital to maintain communication with your ophthalmologist to ensure that your recovery is progressing as expected and to address any potential complications. If you notice persistent or worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice promptly. Your eye health is paramount, and timely intervention can help prevent further issues.

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