Post-Laser Eye Surgery Concerns: Recovery, Vision, and Follow-Up Care

Q: Post-Laser Eye Surgery Concerns: Recovery, Vision, and Follow-Up Care

Hello： 1. <br>After laser surgery, if your vision has decreased and your corrected vision is below 0.2, and you have already waited for some time, it is recommended that you return to an ophthalmologist for an examination. <br>The doctor can assess your eye condition and provide

Postoperative Issues After Retinal Laser Surgery

Hello, Doctor.
Previously, my corrected vision was 0.9 in the left eye and 0.8 in the right eye.
After being hit, I didn't experience any symptoms.
However, three months later, during a dilated eye exam, it was discovered that the right eye, which was originally 0.8, had a hole and the vision dropped below 0.5 (the exact decrease is uncertain).
At that moment, I underwent laser treatment.
On the same day, I accidentally blew my nose forcefully but stopped immediately.
During follow-up visits (two weeks and one month later, due to pain and follow-up), the doctors said everything was fine, but my corrected vision remains below 0.21.

1.
Is this due to issues with postoperative care, or should I wait a while longer before returning for another check-up? (I work on a computer long-term but try to rest during breaks.)
2.
Will my vision gradually improve with continued care, or is it likely to remain the same?
3.
If it is likely to remain the same, will I need to get new glasses, or is it better to observe for a few more months? (My original prescription was 100, and now it’s about 175.
The vision difference compared to the glasses I wore less than a year ago is 50 and 125, respectively.
The laser-treated eye is currently between 700 and 725, while the other eye is between 575 and 600.)
4.
If I continue to experience significant pain, what could be the possible factors, or is this normal? (The pain usually occurs when looking up or when light hits my eyes while looking up, but it improves with rest.
The two doctors I saw during follow-up only mentioned that the scabbing condition was fine.)
5.
What other tests can be done? Would a more comprehensive examination be beneficial? If so, how often should these comprehensive checks be done—once a year or at another interval? (I have already undergone standard vision correction checks, pre-dilation refraction, and post-dilation retinal examinations.)
6.
Would it be better to have dilated retinal examinations every three months? Thank you for your patient responses, Doctor.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/12

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: 1.
After laser surgery, if your vision has decreased and your corrected vision is below 0.2, and you have already waited for some time, it is recommended that you return to an ophthalmologist for an examination.
The doctor can assess your eye condition and provide appropriate advice.
2.
The speed of vision recovery varies from person to person; some may see significant improvement within a few months after surgery, while others may require a longer time.
Generally, the recovery process post-surgery can be gradual, but the specific recovery situation depends on various factors.
3.
If your vision continues to be poor and the corrective prescription is insufficient to meet your needs, you may need to have new glasses made or undergo further treatment.
You can observe for a while under the doctor’s advice to determine if there is any significant improvement.
4.
Pain after surgery can be a normal part of the process, but if you continue to experience pain, especially under specific conditions such as exposure to light, it is advisable to inform your doctor.
This may require further evaluation to ensure that your eyes are recovering well post-surgery.
5.
If you wish to undergo a more comprehensive examination, you might consider advanced tests such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to assess your eye structure in more detail.
As for the frequency of follow-up examinations, it may be adjusted based on the doctor's recommendations, typically within a few months after surgery.
6.
The frequency of dilated eye examinations should also be adjusted according to the doctor's advice.
If your doctor recommends a dilated eye exam every three months, this may be a way to ensure that your eye condition remains stable.

Reply Date: 2023/08/12

More Info

Post-laser eye surgery concerns are quite common, and it's important to address them thoroughly to ensure optimal recovery and vision. Based on your situation, here are some insights and recommendations regarding your recovery, vision, and follow-up care.

1. Vision Decline and Recovery: It’s concerning that your vision has declined to below 0.21 after the surgery. While some fluctuation in vision can occur post-surgery, a significant drop may indicate complications such as corneal scarring, retinal issues, or other underlying conditions. The fact that you experienced a trauma prior to the surgery could also contribute to this decline. It’s essential to follow up with your ophthalmologist to determine the exact cause of the vision loss. If your doctors have indicated that everything looks fine, it may be a matter of time for your vision to stabilize, but continuous monitoring is crucial.

2. Long-term Recovery: Vision recovery can take time, and while some patients may see gradual improvement, others may not regain their previous level of acuity. If your vision remains stable at a lower level, it may be necessary to consider corrective lenses or further interventions. Regular follow-ups will help assess whether your vision improves or stabilizes.

3. Prescription Changes: If your vision does not improve over the next few months, you may need to get a new prescription for glasses or contact lenses. It’s often advisable to wait a few months post-surgery before making any changes to your prescription, as your eyes may still be adjusting. However, if you find that your daily activities are significantly impacted, discussing a new prescription sooner with your eye care provider is warranted.

4. Pain Management: Experiencing pain, especially when looking up or in bright light, can be a sign of several issues, including dryness, irritation, or inflammation. It’s not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort after laser surgery, but persistent pain should not be ignored. If the pain continues or worsens, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out complications such as epithelial ingrowth or other corneal issues.

5. Comprehensive Eye Exams: Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential for monitoring your eye health post-surgery. It’s generally recommended to have a full eye exam at least once a year, but if you have specific concerns or symptoms, more frequent visits may be necessary. Discussing your concerns with your eye care provider can help determine the appropriate frequency for your situation.

6. Retinal Checks: If you have a history of retinal issues or if your doctor has recommended it, having retinal examinations every three months can be beneficial. This frequency allows for close monitoring of any changes that may occur, especially after experiencing trauma or surgery.

In summary, while some discomfort and vision fluctuation can be expected after laser eye surgery, significant changes should be closely monitored. Regular follow-ups with your ophthalmologist are crucial to ensure your eyes are healing properly and to address any ongoing issues. If your vision does not improve, or if pain persists, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation. Your eye health is paramount, and proactive care will help you achieve the best possible outcome.

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