Laser Surgery for Retinal Tears and Post-Operative Symptoms

Q: Laser Surgery for Retinal Tears and Post-Operative Symptoms

Hello Ms. Hao： 1. There are red streaks in the area of the retinal hole, and it may be necessary to consult your attending physician, as this cannot be determined without further evaluation. 2. If the entire optical system of the eye cannot focus the image, it m

Retinal tear laser surgery

Hello Doctor, I have been troubled by persistent floaters in my right eye, which has led me to have regular dilated eye examinations.
This month, I discovered a small hole in my left eye.
I underwent laser surgery yesterday, and after the procedure, I noticed dense red streaks at the site of the hole.
Is this normal? Additionally, I have recently experienced double vision, especially when looking at white text on a black background, where I see a ghost image above the letters.
I have been checked and it is not related to astigmatism, and both eyes are experiencing the same issue.
What could be the cause of this? Is it related to the floaters? Furthermore, at night, I find streetlights particularly glaring, and the light is very harsh, almost like fireworks, leaving an afterimage when I look at them.
I also see a similar halo effect around the moon.
What could be the reason for this?

Hao Danxin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/24

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ms.
Hao:
1.
There are red streaks in the area of the retinal hole, and it may be necessary to consult your attending physician, as this cannot be determined without further evaluation.
2.
If the entire optical system of the eye cannot focus the image, it may lead to double vision.
The cornea and lens can both contribute to this issue.
3.
This is likely a phenomenon of visual persistence, which may occur if you have been looking at something for an extended period; it is mostly a normal physiological occurrence.
At the E-Hospital in Puzi, Taiwan, the ophthalmology department 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.
Please note that online responses are for reference only; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2021/04/24

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your recent laser surgery for retinal tears and the symptoms you are experiencing post-operatively. It’s understandable to have concerns after undergoing such a procedure, especially with the various visual disturbances you’ve described.

Firstly, the presence of dense red blood vessels at the site of the laser treatment is not uncommon. After laser surgery for retinal tears, it’s typical for the treated area to show some degree of inflammation, which can manifest as redness or blood vessels. This is part of the healing process as your body responds to the treatment. However, if you notice any sudden changes in vision, increased pain, or any other concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to reach out to your ophthalmologist for further evaluation.

Regarding your experience with double vision (diplopia), especially when viewing black text on a white background, this could be attributed to several factors. Post-surgical changes in the eye, such as swelling or changes in the cornea, can lead to visual disturbances. Additionally, if there is any misalignment of the eyes or issues with the eye muscles, this could also contribute to double vision. It’s important to have this assessed by your eye care provider, as they can determine if this is a temporary post-operative effect or if further intervention is needed.

The issue of experiencing halos or glare around lights, particularly at night, is another common post-operative symptom. After laser surgery, the cornea may take some time to stabilize, and during this period, patients often report increased sensitivity to light, halos around lights, and other visual disturbances. This is particularly noticeable with bright lights, such as street lamps or the moon, which can appear to have a halo effect. This symptom may improve as your eye heals, but if it persists, it’s worth discussing with your ophthalmologist.

As for the relationship between these symptoms and your floaters, while floaters themselves are typically benign and related to changes in the vitreous gel of the eye, they can sometimes be associated with retinal issues. However, floaters do not usually cause diplopia or light sensitivity directly. It’s essential to keep monitoring your symptoms and report any significant changes to your eye doctor.

In summary, while some post-operative symptoms like redness, double vision, and light sensitivity can be normal after laser surgery for retinal tears, it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your ophthalmologist. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific situation. Regular follow-ups are essential to ensure that your recovery is on track and to address any complications that may arise. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. Your vision is vital, and proactive care is key to ensuring the best possible outcome.

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