Retinal Laser Treatment After Cataract Surgery Complications

Q: Retinal Laser Treatment After Cataract Surgery Complications

Hello Mr. Yu： 1. It should not be the case; it is usually an issue with the retina itself. 2. There may also be hemorrhage, which could cause an increase in symptoms. If there is no further bleeding, it should gradually improve. However, it will take som

Retinal laser treatment

Hello, Doctor: I underwent cataract surgery in June and July, and on August 26, I discovered a retinal tear (with bleeding) in my right eye, which was promptly treated with laser therapy.
I have the following questions:
1.
Is this considered a complication of cataract surgery? Why or why not?
2.
Before the laser treatment, I noticed a sudden appearance of a large area of black floaters in my right eye.
After the laser treatment, they are still present.
I returned for a follow-up appointment, and the doctor performed another dilated examination, noting that the amount of blood seemed to have increased slightly.
However, upon checking the periphery, there were no additional tears, and the treated tear appeared normal.
The doctor mentioned that it may take some time for the floaters to disappear.
If there are no new tears, what other reasons could there be for the bleeding? Approximately how long might it take for improvement?

Mr. Yu, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/28

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Mr.
Yu:
1.
It should not be the case; it is usually an issue with the retina itself.
2.
There may also be hemorrhage, which could cause an increase in symptoms.
If there is no further bleeding, it should gradually improve.
However, it will take some time, possibly a few months.
Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Online responses can only serve as a reference; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/08/28

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your recent experiences with cataract surgery and subsequent retinal laser treatment. It's understandable to have concerns about complications and recovery, especially after undergoing significant eye procedures.

1. Is this a complication of cataract surgery?
While cataract surgery is generally safe, it can lead to various complications, including retinal issues. The development of a retinal tear or hole after cataract surgery is not extremely common, but it can occur. This is often due to changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye, which can happen as the eye heals after surgery. The vitreous may pull away from the retina, leading to tears or holes, especially in individuals who are more prone to retinal issues due to factors such as age, myopia (nearsightedness), or a family history of retinal problems. Therefore, while your retinal tear is not a direct complication of the cataract surgery itself, it can be considered a related issue that arises during the healing process.

2. Regarding the black floaters and bleeding:
The appearance of black floaters, especially after noticing a sudden increase in them, can be alarming. These floaters are often caused by changes in the vitreous gel, which can become more liquid and may lead to the formation of clumps that cast shadows on the retina, resulting in the perception of floaters. After laser treatment for a retinal tear, it is not uncommon for patients to continue experiencing floaters or even see an increase in them temporarily. The bleeding you mentioned could be due to the laser treatment itself, which can sometimes cause minor bleeding in the area of the retina that was treated.
If your doctor has confirmed that there are no new tears and that the treated area is healing well, this is a positive sign. The floaters and any associated bleeding should gradually improve over time, but the exact duration can vary. Many patients notice a reduction in floaters within weeks to months, but some may continue to see them for a longer period. It's essential to keep in close contact with your ophthalmologist and report any changes in your vision.

3. What can cause bleeding if there are no new holes?
If there are no new retinal tears, other factors could contribute to bleeding or the appearance of floaters. These can include changes in the vitreous gel, which may continue to pull away from the retina, or even small hemorrhages that can occur in the retina itself due to the stress of the laser treatment. Additionally, conditions such as diabetic retinopathy or hypertension can also lead to retinal bleeding, so it's crucial to monitor your overall eye health.

In summary, while your situation may seem concerning, it is not uncommon for patients to experience these symptoms after cataract surgery and subsequent retinal laser treatment. It's essential to follow up with your eye care provider regularly, as they can monitor your recovery and address any new symptoms that may arise. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your ophthalmologist for personalized advice and reassurance. Your vision health is paramount, and staying informed is key to a smooth recovery process.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Potential Complications After Retinal Laser Treatment

Hello, Doctor Gao. I was recently diagnosed with peripheral lattice degeneration of the retina with minor holes, and I need to undergo laser treatment. I heard from a friend that he signed a pre-operative agreement mentioning possible complications, including pain, bleeding, blur...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Ms. Chen: The complications you mentioned have a low incidence rate, but there is still a risk, so we have to list them. Laser treatment involves applying energy to the retina, which may initially cause some stinging sensation due to the burning effect. Additionally, the tr...

Understanding Retinal Tears: Risks and Concerns of Laser Surgery

I would like to ask the doctor about something that happened to my mother. Today, while at work, she experienced floaters in her vision and saw flashes of light in her peripheral vision when blinking. After work, she went to the hospital for an examination, and it was found that ...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Laser surgery, in essence, utilizes laser light to irradiate the area surrounding retinal tears, thereby enhancing the adhesion of the retina. Strictly speaking, it is not considered a surgery and typically has few side effects or complications.

Understanding Retinal Laser Treatment: Effects on Vision and Recovery Tips

Hello, doctor. During my previous retinal examination, the physician mentioned that I need to undergo retinal laser treatment for a lattice degeneration condition. I would like to ask if undergoing this laser surgery will affect my vision, or if it will have no impact on my eyesi...

Dr. Hu Yusheng reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Your physician mentioned that retinal laser treatment is not a surgery. If there are no discomforts after the treatment, you may wear contact lenses approximately three days later. Please pay attention to the following precautions: 1. Before the treatment, your pupils must...

Post-Laser Retinal Surgery: Understanding Complications and Aftercare

My father would like to ask about his situation. After undergoing laser treatment for his retina, he immediately returned to work (lifting heavy objects) without resting, which may have caused the original blood clot to move. During a follow-up visit, cataracts were discovered, a...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Basically, the occurrence of cataracts is not related to retinal laser surgery, nor is it associated with lack of rest; these are essentially independent events!