Temporary Discomfort After Scleral Buckling Surgery

Scleral Buckling Surgery for Retinal Detachment

I recently underwent scleral buckle surgery for retinal detachment, but I sometimes feel like there is a foreign body in my eye.
The doctor mentioned it is the buckle.
This sensation comes and goes, and when it is pronounced, it causes excessive tearing and makes it difficult to open my eye.
Is this temporary? How long might it last? Is there a way to alleviate it? Could it be related to intraocular pressure? Will the buckle need to be removed, or will it remain in my eye permanently? Are there any potential long-term effects? Could it cause damage to the eyeball? I would appreciate insights from experienced or professional individuals.
Thank you.

Xiao Hong Fan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/01

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology

The ring buckle placed in your eye socket is likely made of silicone material, and it is generally not recommended to remove it, as doing so would significantly increase the chances of retinal detachment occurring again.
Since this device is encapsulated within the conjunctiva, it cannot scratch the eyeball; however, some individuals with heightened sensitivity may experience a foreign body sensation when the eyeball moves.
After retinal surgery, it is indeed important to monitor intraocular pressure, but typically, mild elevated eye pressure does not cause discomfort.
Achieving stable adhesion of the retina is quite challenging and requires excellent surgical skills as well as a bit of luck.
Some postoperative discomfort is a drawback of this surgery, but most individuals find that it diminishes over time.

Reply Date: 2006/09/01

More Info

After undergoing scleral buckling surgery for retinal detachment, it's not uncommon to experience temporary discomfort, including the sensation of having a foreign body in the eye. This feeling can be attributed to the presence of the buckle itself, which is a silicone band placed around the eye to support the retina and prevent further detachment.

Temporary Discomfort and Duration
The sensation of a foreign body can vary in intensity and frequency. It is typically a temporary side effect of the surgery and may last for several days to weeks as your eye heals and adjusts to the presence of the buckle. The discomfort may be exacerbated by factors such as eye pressure, inflammation, or the healing process itself. In many cases, patients report that this sensation diminishes over time as the eye adapts to the surgical changes.

Management and Relief
To alleviate discomfort, there are several strategies you can employ:
1. Artificial Tears: Using lubricating eye drops can help relieve dryness and irritation, which may contribute to the sensation of a foreign body.

2. Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress over the closed eyelid can reduce swelling and provide soothing relief.

3. Avoiding Eye Strain: Reducing screen time and taking regular breaks can help minimize discomfort.

4. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist are crucial. They can monitor your healing process and address any concerns you may have.

Will the Buckle Need to Be Removed?
The scleral buckle is typically intended to remain in place permanently. In most cases, it does not need to be removed unless there are complications or if it causes significant discomfort that cannot be managed. Your surgeon will provide guidance based on your specific situation and healing progress.

Potential Complications and Long-Term Effects
While scleral buckling is generally safe, there are potential risks and complications associated with the procedure:
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, which can lead to more serious complications if not addressed promptly.

- Vision Changes: Some patients may experience changes in vision post-surgery, including blurred vision or double vision. These changes can be temporary or, in rare cases, permanent.

- Eye Pressure: The presence of the buckle can affect intraocular pressure. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure that pressure levels remain within a healthy range.

- Retinal Issues: Although the buckle is intended to prevent further detachment, there is still a risk of new retinal tears or detachments occurring.

Conclusion
In summary, the sensation of a foreign body after scleral buckling surgery is typically temporary and should improve as your eye heals. Utilizing lubricating drops, cold compresses, and maintaining regular follow-up appointments can help manage discomfort. The buckle is usually left in place permanently, and while there are potential risks, many patients experience successful outcomes with careful monitoring and management. Always consult with your ophthalmologist regarding any concerns or unusual symptoms you may experience during your recovery.

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