Occasional Light Sensation with Eyes Closed After Retinal Surgery

Occasionally experiencing light perception with closed eyes?

Hello Doctor, I underwent laser surgery on my right eye about three weeks ago to reinforce a thinning retina.
For the past couple of days, when lying down with my eyes closed and moving my right eye or head, I occasionally see a small spot of light in the central field of vision that resembles a reflection from a CD.
However, when I open my eyes, I can't see it even in the dark.
I also haven't noticed it while standing or sitting; it only appears at certain angles when lying down.
If I remember correctly, this occurred before the surgery as well.
I would like to ask, what could this condition be? Should I see a doctor immediately, or is it acceptable to wait for the follow-up appointment in three months as advised by the clinic? Lastly, is it normal to experience tearing when using dry eye gel? Thank you, Doctor.

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/06

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, this may be caused by vitreous traction on the retina.
If it has been persistent, you can monitor it; however, if it just occurred, it would be better to get it checked.
Using gel may slow down the drainage of tears, which could lead to tearing.

Reply Date: 2022/03/06

More Info

After undergoing retinal surgery, experiencing occasional light sensations, especially when your eyes are closed, can be concerning. However, it is essential to understand that some visual phenomena can occur post-surgery due to various factors related to the healing process and the changes in the eye's structure.

In your case, the light sensation you describe, resembling the reflection of a CD, may be attributed to several potential causes. One possibility is that it is related to the vitreous gel in your eye. After retinal surgery, the vitreous may still be in the process of detaching or adjusting, which can lead to unusual visual sensations, especially when moving your eyes or head. This is often referred to as "floaters" or "photopsia," which are common after retinal procedures. These sensations can be benign, especially if they are not accompanied by other symptoms such as significant vision loss, flashes of light, or a sudden increase in floaters.

It's also worth noting that the brain can sometimes interpret signals from the eye in unexpected ways, particularly during the recovery phase. The fact that you only notice this phenomenon when lying down and turning your head suggests that it may be positional, possibly related to how the light enters your eye or how the vitreous is interacting with the retina.

Regarding your concern about whether you need to see a doctor immediately, if the sensations are not accompanied by any alarming symptoms (like sudden vision changes, severe pain, or flashes of light), it may be reasonable to follow your doctor's advice and wait for your scheduled follow-up appointment in three months. However, if you notice any changes in your vision or if the sensations become more frequent or bothersome, it would be prudent to contact your healthcare provider sooner.

As for the use of dry eye gel causing tears, this can be a normal reaction. Many artificial tears or gels are designed to lubricate the eye and can sometimes stimulate tear production as a response to dryness. If you find that the gel is causing excessive tearing or discomfort, you might want to discuss this with your eye care provider. They can recommend alternative products or adjust your treatment plan to ensure your comfort while managing dry eye symptoms.

In summary, while occasional light sensations after retinal surgery can be common and often benign, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your eye health is paramount, and staying informed about your recovery process is crucial.

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