Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: When to Seek Emergency Care?

Q: Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: When to Seek Emergency Care?

Hello： It may be a subconjunctival hemorrhage, and if that's the case, it should not be a concern. <br>However, it's still advisable to be cautious after the surgery and have it checked.

Post-retinal detachment surgery

One week after retinal detachment surgery, I noticed blood-tinged fluid on my eyelid and my eyeball appears deep red (similar to liver color).
Should I seek emergency medical attention?

Debby, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/17

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: It may be a subconjunctival hemorrhage, and if that's the case, it should not be a concern.
However, it's still advisable to be cautious after the surgery and have it checked.

Reply Date: 2022/12/17

More Info

After retinal detachment surgery, it is crucial to monitor your recovery closely and be aware of any changes in your vision or eye condition. Based on your description of experiencing blood-tinged fluid in your eyelid and a deep red coloration in your eyeball, it is advisable to seek emergency care immediately. Here’s why:
1. Postoperative Complications: Retinal detachment surgery, while generally safe, can lead to complications such as bleeding, infection, or increased intraocular pressure. The presence of blood in the eyelid and a significant change in the color of your eye could indicate bleeding within the eye (hyphema) or other serious issues that require prompt evaluation.

2. Signs of Infection: If you notice redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye, these could be signs of an infection, which is a serious complication that needs immediate attention. Infections can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly.

3. Changes in Vision: Any sudden changes in vision, such as increased blurriness, flashes of light, or new floaters, should be taken seriously. These symptoms might indicate that the retina is not healing properly or that there is a new detachment or other issues.

4. Emergency Protocol: In the context of eye surgery, it is often recommended to err on the side of caution. If you experience any unusual symptoms, especially within the first few weeks post-surgery, you should contact your surgeon or go to the emergency room. It’s better to have a professional assess your condition than to risk potential complications.

5. Follow-Up Care: After retinal surgery, follow-up appointments are critical for monitoring the healing process. If you have not already scheduled a follow-up visit, it is essential to do so. Your surgeon will want to check the status of your retina and ensure that there are no complications.

In summary, given the symptoms you are experiencing, it is crucial to seek emergency care. Do not wait for a scheduled appointment; instead, go to the nearest eye care facility or emergency room. They will be able to perform the necessary examinations, such as a dilated eye exam, to determine the cause of the symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. Your vision and eye health are paramount, and timely intervention can make a significant difference in your recovery outcome.

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