Post-Laser Symptoms: Shadows and Flickering Lights After Retinal Surgery

Q: Post-Laser Symptoms: Shadows and Flickering Lights After Retinal Surgery

Hello KK： It is possible that the vitreous is pulling on the retina, but it is difficult to determine if there are any tears or detachments. <br>However, the doctor has examined it and found no issues, so it is likely just caused by vitreous traction.

After retinal detachment laser treatment, there may be shadows and flashing lights?

Hello, Doctor Gao.
I was diagnosed with a retinal tear and partial detachment, and I underwent retinal laser surgery last Tuesday.
After the surgery, I have been seeing a dark line obstructing my vision at the lower edge of my sight.
Additionally, two days ago, I noticed flickering lights appearing in the lower left corner, resembling the flicker of a light under a ceiling fan, occurring quite frequently—about ten times a day.
I returned for a follow-up appointment, and the doctor said that the area where the retina was repaired looks fine, and the dark line might be due to bleeding, which should fade over time.

Could you please clarify if the flickering lights in that corner are due to retinal traction? They do not appear briefly; rather, they flicker continuously for more than ten seconds at a time.
What could this condition indicate? Is it possible that there is another tear or detachment of the retina? Thank you for your patient response.

KK, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/18

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello KK: It is possible that the vitreous is pulling on the retina, but it is difficult to determine if there are any tears or detachments.
However, the doctor has examined it and found no issues, so it is likely just caused by vitreous traction.

Reply Date: 2021/08/18

More Info

After undergoing retinal laser surgery, experiencing symptoms such as shadows and flickering lights can be concerning and may lead to questions about the underlying causes and implications. Based on the information provided, it appears that you have undergone surgery due to a retinal tear and partial detachment, and you are now noticing persistent visual disturbances.

Firstly, it is important to understand that after retinal surgery, especially procedures like laser photocoagulation, it is not uncommon for patients to experience various visual phenomena as the eye heals. These can include flashes of light, shadows, or even the sensation of seeing "floaters." The symptoms you describe, particularly the flickering lights that resemble the frequency of a fan's light, could be attributed to several factors.

One potential explanation for the flickering lights is vitreous traction. After surgery, the vitreous gel that fills the eye may still be in the process of separating from the retina. This can lead to the vitreous pulling on the retina, which may cause sensations of light or flickering. If the vitreous is tugging on the retina, it can create visual disturbances, including the flickering lights you are experiencing. This is often a benign phenomenon, especially if your doctor has confirmed that the surgical site appears stable and there are no new tears or detachments.

The black shadow you mentioned obstructing your vision could be due to a few reasons. It might be a result of bleeding within the eye, which is not uncommon after retinal surgery. This type of bleeding can create a temporary shadow or dark spot in your field of vision, and as your eye heals, this should gradually resolve. However, it is essential to monitor this symptom, as any significant changes in your vision should be reported to your ophthalmologist promptly.

Regarding your concern about whether the flickering lights could indicate a new retinal tear or detachment, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your eye care provider. If your doctor has performed a thorough examination and has not found any new issues, it is likely that your symptoms are related to the healing process rather than a new complication. However, if the frequency or intensity of the flickering increases, or if you experience any sudden changes in vision, you should seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while the symptoms you are experiencing can be alarming, they are not uncommon after retinal surgery. The flickering lights and shadows may be due to vitreous traction or residual effects from the surgery, and the black shadow could be related to post-operative bleeding. It is essential to follow up with your ophthalmologist regularly to monitor your recovery and address any new or worsening symptoms. Your eye health is paramount, and staying informed and proactive about your symptoms will help ensure the best possible outcome.

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