Will Curvature and Distortion Improve After Macular Fold Surgery?

Q: Will Curvature and Distortion Improve After Macular Fold Surgery?

Hello： Typically, the condition of visual distortion after surgery may not improve immediately. <br>It requires some time for the tissues to heal, and there is no set duration for this process. <br>For some individuals, visual distortion may not be completely resolved even after

Will the distortion disappear after macular pucker surgery?

Medical History: High myopia; initially, the right eye had only a slight distortion of the macula, but after one year, the distortion worsened, and there was also a perception of magnification in the right eye.
After one and a half years, the doctor finally agreed to perform surgery.
Surgery performed: Vitrectomy and removal of epiretinal membrane in the right eye.
Current issue: It has been one month post-surgery, and there is still some distortion in the right eye, with objects appearing magnified and squares appearing as trapezoids.
The doctor advised to continue monitoring.
Is there still a chance for my eye to recover? If so, how long might it take for recovery?

Xiao Zhuang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/24

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Typically, the condition of visual distortion after surgery may not improve immediately.
It requires some time for the tissues to heal, and there is no set duration for this process.
For some individuals, visual distortion may not be completely resolved even after surgery.
Director He Jianxian, Ophthalmology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/08/24

More Info

The question regarding the potential improvement of curvature and distortion after macular fold surgery is a common concern among patients who undergo such procedures. In your case, you have a history of high myopia and have experienced worsening distortion and magnification of objects in your right eye due to a macular fold. After undergoing vitrectomy and epiretinal membrane removal, you are now one month post-surgery and still notice some distortion and curvature in your vision.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the recovery process after macular surgery can vary significantly from one individual to another. While many patients do experience improvements in their vision following surgery, the extent and timeline of these improvements can depend on several factors, including the severity of the initial condition, the duration of the macular fold prior to surgery, and individual healing responses.

In general, after macular surgery, patients may notice gradual improvements in visual acuity and distortion over the course of several weeks to months. It is not uncommon for patients to continue experiencing some degree of distortion or changes in visual perception for a period of time following the procedure. This is because the retina and macula may still be in the process of healing and adapting after the surgery.

Regarding your specific situation, since you are one month post-surgery, it is reasonable to expect that some improvement may still occur. Many surgeons advise patients to allow a few months for the full effects of the surgery to manifest. In some cases, it may take up to three to six months for vision to stabilize and for any remaining distortion to diminish. However, it is crucial to maintain regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist, who can monitor your progress and provide personalized insights based on your healing process.

If the distortion and curvature do not improve significantly over time, or if you experience any new symptoms, it is essential to communicate this with your doctor. They may consider additional interventions or therapies to address persistent issues. In some cases, further surgical options may be available, but this would depend on the specific circumstances of your condition.

In conclusion, while there is a chance for improvement in curvature and distortion after macular fold surgery, the timeline for recovery can vary. It is important to remain patient and continue following your doctor's recommendations. Regular check-ups will help ensure that your recovery is on track and that any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan can be made. Always feel free to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, as they can provide the most accurate information tailored to your individual case.

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