Scleral Buckling Surgery for Retinal Detachment Recovery

Scleral Buckling Surgery for Retinal Detachment

Thank you, Dr.
Wang, for your previous response.
I have a few more questions to ask.
After my treatment, my right eye was confirmed to have a retinal detachment.
That evening, I underwent scleral buckle surgery.
It has now been 20 days since the surgery.
After lying down for three days, the doctor said I could alternate between lying down and sitting up, each for half the time.
Currently, I can see things with my right eye, but the images appear tilted to the left and have a yellow-brown tint.
Could this situation be due to the retina not being fully reattached yet? Is the tilted view related to my lying position? Will the retina reattach once the gas bubble disappears? I have already taken more than half a month off work, and starting today, I must return to work.
However, the doctor advised that I should not work until the gas bubble has dissipated, which is a bit concerning for me.
Can I do computer data entry work as long as I rest my eyes frequently? My attending physician has many patients, and when I asked a couple more questions, he seemed impatient, so I could only come here to ask you, Dr.
Wang.
Thank you for patiently reading my questions.

Xiao Xuan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/01/02

Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology

Even if the retina has already been reattached, it is still possible to have some color discrepancies, bubbles, or misalignment at the retinal attachment site, which can cause image distortion.
You trusted your attending physician enough to undergo surgery, right? Since they have advised you to rest, it is best to comply as much as possible.
P.S.: The doctors in the Retina Department at National Taiwan University Hospital are very patient, and you should feel free to ask any questions you have without worry.
From what I know, many physicians in Taiwan's e-hospital also have a large number of patients, and they are all enthusiastic about taking extra time to answer questions.
I hope this helps.

Reply Date: 2013/01/02

More Info

Scleral buckling surgery is a common procedure used to treat retinal detachment, and understanding the recovery process is crucial for patients. It seems you have undergone this surgery recently, and you have several concerns regarding your recovery. Let’s address your questions and provide some insights into the recovery process.

Firstly, it is not uncommon for patients to experience visual distortions such as tilted or colored images after scleral buckling surgery. The symptoms you describe—seeing images that appear tilted to the left and having a yellow-brown tint—could be related to several factors. One possibility is that the retina has not yet fully reattached, which can lead to visual distortions. The presence of gas bubbles, which are often used during the surgery to help flatten the retina against the back of the eye, can also affect how you perceive images. As the gas bubble dissipates, many patients report improvements in their vision, but this can take time.

Regarding your question about posture, the position you maintain post-surgery can influence the healing process. While lying face down (prone positioning) is often recommended immediately after surgery to help the retina reattach, transitioning to a more upright position is usually encouraged as healing progresses. However, if you are still experiencing significant visual distortions, it may be beneficial to continue with the recommended positioning until your doctor advises otherwise.

As for your work situation, it is understandable that you are eager to return to your daily activities. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor's advice regarding the gas bubble. If your doctor has advised against working until the bubble has fully dissipated, it is essential to adhere to this guidance to avoid complications. Working on a computer may strain your eyes, especially if you are experiencing visual disturbances. If you must work, consider taking frequent breaks to rest your eyes, and ensure that you are in a comfortable position that does not exacerbate your symptoms.

In terms of what you can do to support your recovery, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can be beneficial for eye health. Staying hydrated and avoiding activities that could put strain on your eyes, such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise, is also advisable during the recovery period.

Lastly, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, consider seeking a second opinion or asking for a referral to a specialist in retinal diseases. Your vision is invaluable, and you deserve to have your questions answered thoroughly.

In summary, your current visual symptoms may be related to the healing process following your scleral buckling surgery. It is crucial to follow your doctor's recommendations regarding posture and work activities. While it can be frustrating to navigate recovery, prioritizing your eye health will ultimately lead to better outcomes. If you have further concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for more personalized advice.

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