Redness in Pupil After Eye Drops Post-Vitreous Surgery: Causes and Concerns - Ophthalmology

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After cataract surgery, the pupil of the eye turned red after the administration of eye drops?


Hello, I had vitrectomy (silicone oil surgery) five weeks ago.
After applying eye drops, my pupils turn red about half an hour later and take about 2 to 3 hours to return to normal.
During my follow-up appointment last Friday, my intraocular pressure was only 3 mmHg.
I still cannot see anything clearly.
Could you please tell me if I have bleeding in the pupil, whether the surgery was unsuccessful, and if a second surgery is possible? I hope to receive some information.

Xiao Xia, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/03

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology


Hello, Xiaoxia: If your pupils turn red half an hour after using eye drops and take 2-3 hours to return to normal, it is unlikely to be hemorrhaging, as visual disturbances from bleeding typically do not resolve.
Additionally, it is very difficult to observe internal bleeding without specialized equipment.
I recommend that you refrain from speculation and directly consult your surgeon for the most accurate information.
Dr.
He Jianxian, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2020/05/03

More Info


After undergoing vitreous surgery, it's understandable to have concerns about any changes in your eye, especially if you notice redness in the pupil after applying eye drops. The redness you are experiencing could be attributed to several factors, and it’s essential to consider each of them carefully.

Firstly, the redness in the pupil after using eye drops may not necessarily indicate bleeding or a failed surgery. It is not uncommon for patients to experience transient redness in the eye following the administration of certain eye drops. This reaction can occur due to the preservatives in the eye drops, which may irritate the ocular surface, leading to a temporary inflammatory response. The fact that the redness subsides within 2 to 3 hours suggests that it may be more related to irritation rather than a serious complication.

Moreover, the low intraocular pressure (3 mmHg) you reported during your follow-up visit is quite significant. Normal intraocular pressure typically ranges from 10 to 21 mmHg. A pressure of 3 mmHg is considered very low and could potentially lead to other complications, such as choroidal detachment or other forms of ocular instability. It’s crucial to monitor this closely with your ophthalmologist, as low eye pressure can also contribute to visual disturbances.

Regarding your concern about whether the surgery was a failure, it's important to remember that visual recovery can take time, especially after complex procedures like vitreous surgery. If you are still experiencing difficulties with your vision, it is essential to communicate this with your surgeon. They can perform a thorough examination to determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed, such as retinal detachment, persistent vitreous hemorrhage, or other complications that could affect your vision.

As for the possibility of undergoing a second surgery, this decision should be made in consultation with your ophthalmologist. They will assess the current state of your eye, the results of the initial surgery, and any potential risks associated with a second procedure. It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the reasons for the initial surgery and the expected outcomes before considering further surgical intervention.

In summary, while the redness in your pupil after using eye drops is concerning, it may not necessarily indicate a severe problem. However, given the low intraocular pressure and ongoing visual difficulties, it is vital to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. Regular follow-ups and thorough examinations will help ensure that any complications are identified and managed promptly. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your ophthalmologist for personalized advice and treatment options. Your eye health is paramount, and addressing these issues early can lead to better outcomes.

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