Does Crying Affect Recovery After Scleral Buckling for Retinal Detachment? - Ophthalmology

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Will crying affect the outcome after scleral buckle surgery for retinal detachment?


I had retinal detachment surgery with scleral buckle on July 2nd, and it has been 18 days of recovery.
If I cry now, will it affect the healing of the wound? Thank you.
Additionally, I have a particularly prominent area on the white part of my eye.
I consulted my doctor, who said it is a suture that will fall off on its own.
However, I read that you previously mentioned that sutures do not fall off on their own.
Could you explain the reason for this? Thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/20

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello: Brief crying should not significantly affect the wound, but excessive sadness may have some impact on the body's recovery.
It depends on where the sutures are located; if they are sutures for the sclera, they will not fall out as they are placed beneath the conjunctiva.
If they are sutures for the conjunctiva, they will fall out as the wound heals, so it is less likely to have a noticeable bump.
Therefore, I believe the sutures are for the sclera, which will not fall out.
In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is necessary to visit a medical institution for treatment.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/07/20

More Info


Crying after undergoing scleral buckling surgery for retinal detachment is a concern for many patients, especially regarding its potential impact on recovery. Generally, short episodes of crying are unlikely to significantly affect the healing process of the surgical site. The primary concern with crying post-surgery is the increase in intraocular pressure that can occur during intense emotional episodes. However, this increase is typically transient and not substantial enough to cause harm to the surgical site or the retina.

The scleral buckling procedure involves placing a silicone band around the eye to support the retina and prevent further detachment. The recovery process primarily depends on how well the retina adheres back to the underlying tissue and the overall health of the eye. Emotional stress and crying can lead to physical strain, but moderate emotional responses should not compromise the surgical outcome. It is essential to manage emotional health during recovery, as prolonged stress can affect overall healing.

Regarding the raised area on the white part of your eye, which your doctor identified as a suture, it is crucial to understand the nature of the sutures used during the procedure. If the suture is placed in the sclera (the white part of the eye), it is typically not designed to dissolve and will remain in place until it is removed by a healthcare professional if necessary. On the other hand, if the suture is placed in the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye), it may dissolve over time as the tissue heals. The appearance of a raised area can be due to the suture being visible through the conjunctiva or due to the healing process itself.

If you are experiencing concerns about your recovery or the appearance of the suture, it is advisable to follow up with your ophthalmologist. They can provide a thorough examination and determine whether the healing process is proceeding as expected or if any intervention is needed.
In summary, while crying may cause temporary increases in intraocular pressure, it is unlikely to have a significant negative impact on recovery from scleral buckling surgery. Emotional well-being is essential during the recovery phase, so finding healthy outlets for stress and sadness is beneficial. Additionally, understanding the nature of your sutures and their expected behavior can help alleviate concerns about your recovery. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and reassurance regarding your specific situation.

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Hello, you can rest assured that there shouldn't be any significant impact. The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesdays from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Please note that onli...

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