Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: Managing Vision Recovery and Eye Strain

Q: Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: Managing Vision Recovery and Eye Strain

Hello： Discomfort in the right eye may be temporary and should improve after some time. <br>Currently, if the surgical eye is covered, it should not affect the increase in prescription. <br>During this transitional period, this should not harm the eye. <br>Gradually increasing th

Consultation on Eye Issues During Vision Recovery Period After Retinal Detachment Surgery

Hello, Doctor.
Current status: (Surgical eye is the right eye) It has been about 1.5 months since I underwent retinal detachment surgery on my right eye (scleral buckle under general anesthesia on 10/9 and vitrectomy under local anesthesia on 10/12).
The gas has just been fully absorbed (as of 11/25) for about two weeks now.
Since the surgery, I have been wearing a metal eye shield daily.
On 12/2, I measured the refractive error of both eyes, which is approximately as follows: the surgical eye has myopia of about 800 degrees, astigmatism of 400 degrees, SPH -6.00, CYL -4.00, AXIS 10; the left eye has myopia of about 400 degrees, astigmatism of 200 degrees, SPH -4.25, CYL -2.00, AXIS 170 (the AXIS difference is significant).

Over the past two weeks, I have attempted to remove the metal eye shield to use my surgical eye, but I am uncertain if the discomfort I feel when using both eyes simultaneously is due to "excessive disparity" or "third cranial nerve palsy." The discomfort is localized to the right eye, which feels like it needs to blink frequently, and it feels dry and cool, as if someone is blowing air onto the eyeball (unlike excessive disparity, as there is no headache).
Therefore, I still mostly wear the metal eye shield to avoid using the surgical eye.
Question: Currently, due to work, I still need to use digital devices for long periods, taking a 5-minute break every 50 minutes.
I always wear the metal eye shield while not using the surgical eye (the edges of the shield allow some light in, meaning about 80% occlusion).
When using my phone and tablet, I do not wear glasses, but when using my laptop, I wear my old glasses from before the surgery (completely wrapped in tissue paper, meaning 100% occlusion).
I would like to inquire about my current situation: is my surgical eye actually open even though it is covered by the metal eye shield? Will this increase the myopia in my surgical eye or have any adverse effects? What would you recommend I do? Thank you!

Shengwen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/09

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Discomfort in the right eye may be temporary and should improve after some time.
Currently, if the surgical eye is covered, it should not affect the increase in prescription.
During this transitional period, this should not harm the eye.
Gradually increasing the use of the surgical eye over time should help with adaptation.

Reply Date: 2022/12/09

More Info

After undergoing retinal detachment surgery, it is crucial to manage your recovery effectively, especially regarding vision and eye strain. Your situation, having had a scleral buckle and vitrectomy, indicates that you are in a critical phase of healing where careful monitoring and management of your visual function are essential.

Understanding Your Current Condition
1. Visual Discomfort: The discomfort you are experiencing in your right eye could stem from several factors, including the surgical trauma, the healing process, or potential issues such as dry eye or nerve involvement. The sensation of dryness and the urge to blink frequently may indicate that your eye is not producing enough tears, which is common after surgery. This can lead to further irritation and discomfort.

2. Vision Differences: The significant difference in prescription between your two eyes (right eye: -8.00 SPH, -4.00 CYL; left eye: -4.25 SPH, -2.00 CYL) can contribute to visual strain when using both eyes together. This disparity can cause binocular vision issues, leading to discomfort, headaches, and difficulty focusing.

Recommendations for Managing Recovery
1. Eye Protection: Wearing an eye patch or shield, as you have been doing, is a good practice to protect your surgical eye from light and potential irritants. However, ensure that the patch is not too tight, as this could cause additional discomfort. If you feel that the patch is causing more irritation, consider discussing with your doctor about alternatives that might provide comfort while still protecting your eye.

2. Screen Time Management: Given your work requirements, it is wise to take regular breaks from screens. The 50-minute work and 5-minute break schedule is beneficial. During breaks, try to close your eyes or look at something far away to reduce strain. If possible, adjust the brightness and contrast of your screens to minimize glare, which can exacerbate discomfort.

3. Use of Glasses: Since you are using your old glasses, ensure they are clean and in good condition. If you find that your vision is still strained while wearing them, it may be time to consult your eye care provider about getting a new prescription that accommodates the changes in your vision post-surgery.

4. Hydration and Eye Drops: To combat dryness, consider using preservative-free artificial tears throughout the day. This can help keep your eye lubricated and reduce discomfort. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can also support overall eye health.

5. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-ups with your ophthalmologist are crucial. They can monitor your healing process, assess any changes in your vision, and determine if further interventions are necessary. If your discomfort persists or worsens, it is essential to report this to your doctor as it may indicate complications that need to be addressed.

6. Gradual Return to Normal Activities: As your eye heals, gradually reintroduce activities that require visual focus. Start with short periods and increase as tolerated. Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting until cleared by your doctor.

Conclusion
Your recovery from retinal detachment surgery is a process that requires patience and careful management. While it is understandable to be concerned about the potential for worsening vision, following your doctor's advice, protecting your eye, and managing your screen time will help mitigate risks. Always prioritize communication with your healthcare provider regarding any changes in your symptoms or concerns about your recovery. They are best positioned to guide you through this healing phase and ensure optimal outcomes for your vision.

Similar Q&A

Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery Care: Key Questions and Concerns

Dear Doctor, Thank you very much for taking the time to clarify my concerns regarding the retina. I have some additional questions. Currently, my right eye has a prescription of -700 diopters (post-retinal detachment surgery with scleral buckle), and my left eye has -750 diopte...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Mr. Huang: If you follow all the precautions to prevent retinal tears and detachments, the likelihood of experiencing another tear or needing surgery again cannot be estimated. You must take care of yourself and be vigilant. 1. After applying eye drops, I noticed a small ...

Understanding Multiple Retinal Detachment Surgeries and Recovery Challenges

Hello Dr. Liang, I have a vision of 575 in my left eye and 525 in my right eye, and I am 38 years old. On June 21, I was referred from a clinic to a regional hospital due to a retinal detachment in my left eye (extending to the macula). That afternoon, I underwent a retinal deta...

Dr. Liang Ce reply Ophthalmology
Recommendations: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Alternatively, seek consultation at another ophthalmology medical facility. Thank you. Wishing you good health!

Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: Understanding Vision Changes and Recovery

I underwent cataract surgery on my left eye in February 2022, and one month later, I had cataract surgery on my right eye. Unfortunately, a week later, I experienced an accident resulting in a retinal tear and retinal detachment (with half of the retina detached). On March 31, I ...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Visual changes after retinal detachment surgery are quite common, and there is no ideal method for improvement. The best approach is to allow the body to recover and adjust on its own. Dr. He Jianxian, Department of Ophthalmology, Nantou Hospital.

Understanding Retinal Detachment: Risks and Recovery After Surgery

Hello doctor, the retinal detachment surgery has been successful. Is it more likely to detach again due to physical exertion or impact? What is the likelihood of re-detachment? Thank you for your hard work.

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Ms. Hsu: If the retinal attachment is good after surgery, you can generally resume normal activities. If you experience a bump, the risk of detachment may not necessarily be higher, unless the retinal attachment is poor. Therefore, during the period until complete attachmen...