Post-Scleral Buckling Surgery: Concerns About Vision Distortion and Recovery

Q: Post-Scleral Buckling Surgery: Concerns About Vision Distortion and Recovery

Hello： First of all, retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent further visual impairment. <br>Scleral buckle surgery is typically an effective method for restoring the normal position and function of the retina. <br>However, post-oper

Post-scleral buckle surgery

Hello Doctor, I discovered a retinal detachment nearly a week after my eye was struck, and there was fluid accumulation.
That day, I was transferred to the emergency department at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, and the next day I underwent scleral buckle surgery.
However, last week I accidentally pinched my nose and sneezed, which made me feel a sudden increase in eye pressure.
It has now been two weeks since the surgery, but my vision in the operated eye is still distorted.
When I followed up with the doctor yesterday, he mentioned that the delay in my surgery contributed to my condition, and my recovery may depend on my own healing process.
I would like to ask if the visual distortion might not improve? It feels like the area of distortion is larger than it was before the surgery.
Should I consider getting a second opinion from another doctor?

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/03

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: First of all, retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent further visual impairment.
Scleral buckle surgery is typically an effective method for restoring the normal position and function of the retina.
However, post-operative visual distortion may take time to improve, and the outcomes can vary based on individual patient differences.
In your case, the delay in undergoing surgery may have resulted in more severe retinal damage, which could affect the speed and extent of recovery.
The improvement of visual distortion depends on several factors, including the severity of the detachment and your overall health condition.
At this stage, I recommend that you continue to follow your ophthalmologist's advice and attend regular follow-up appointments.
If you have concerns about your current medical condition, you may consider consulting another qualified ophthalmologist for a second opinion, which can help ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and recommendations.

Reply Date: 2023/11/03

More Info

Hello, thank you for your question regarding your post-scleral buckling surgery experience. It’s understandable to have concerns about vision distortion and recovery after such a significant procedure.
Firstly, it’s important to recognize that retinal detachment is a serious condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. The scleral buckling surgery you underwent is designed to reattach the retina and stabilize the eye. However, the recovery process can be complex and varies significantly from person to person.

Regarding your concern about the persistent visual distortion and the feeling that your vision is worse than before the surgery, it’s crucial to understand that several factors can contribute to this situation. The delay in treatment, as mentioned by your doctor, can indeed affect the outcome. When retinal detachment occurs, the longer the retina remains detached, the greater the risk of permanent damage to the retinal cells, particularly in the macula, which is responsible for central vision. If the macula was affected, this could lead to ongoing issues such as distortion or blurriness.

Visual distortion post-surgery can be attributed to several potential causes:
1. Residual Fluid: Sometimes, fluid can remain under the retina even after surgery, which can cause distortion.

2. Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can develop on the retina, leading to changes in vision.

3. Macular Changes: If the macula was involved in the detachment, it may not recover fully, leading to persistent distortion.

4. Surgical Complications: Any complications during or after surgery can also impact recovery.

As for your question about whether the distortion will improve, it’s difficult to predict. Some patients do experience gradual improvement over time, while others may have persistent issues. Regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist are essential to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.

If you feel that your current doctor is not adequately addressing your concerns or if you are uncertain about the recovery process, seeking a second opinion from another ophthalmologist can be beneficial. A fresh perspective may provide additional insights or alternative treatment options.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations to support your recovery:
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Adhere strictly to any guidelines provided by your surgeon, including activity restrictions and medication use.

- Avoid Straining: Activities that increase intraocular pressure, such as heavy lifting or straining, should be avoided, especially after sneezing or coughing.

- Regular Check-Ups: Keep all follow-up appointments to monitor your eye health and recovery progress.

- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, which can support eye health.

In conclusion, while it’s natural to be concerned about your vision after scleral buckling surgery, it’s essential to remain in close contact with your healthcare provider and to seek further evaluation if necessary. Recovery can take time, and each case is unique, so patience and ongoing communication with your medical team are key.

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