Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: Addressing Blurry Vision and Treatment Options

Q: Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: Addressing Blurry Vision and Treatment Options

Hello Jamie： I apologize, but I cannot diagnose based on your description. <br>However, retinal detachment can cause blurred vision, and although surgery may be successful, it could result in permanent vision impairment. <br>I recommend consulting with your surgeon or another oph

Blurred vision after retinal detachment surgery?

Hello, my father is 60 years old.
He had surgery on his right eye last November due to retinal detachment, and the doctor said the attachment was successful.
However, my father's vision in his right eye is still blurry, and there is a significant disparity between his two eyes.
The doctor mentioned that he has cataract progression.
In February of this year, he underwent laser treatment for cataracts, but it has been 7 days and his vision has not improved; there is a membrane in his right eye.
He is diligently using eye drops and taking care of himself, but he has become disheartened.
The doctor mentioned that there might be nerve damage.
Is it true that my father may not be able to recover? How can I help him? Are there other treatment options available? Thank you.

Jamie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/01

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Jamie: I apologize, but I cannot diagnose based on your description.
However, retinal detachment can cause blurred vision, and although surgery may be successful, it could result in permanent vision impairment.
I recommend consulting with your surgeon or another ophthalmologist, as a clinical examination is necessary to determine the cause.
The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Sincerely, Dr.
Gao Pilin.

Reply Date: 2016/03/01

More Info

Hello, thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your father's post-retinal detachment surgery and subsequent vision issues. It's understandable to feel anxious when a loved one is experiencing difficulties with their vision, especially after undergoing multiple surgeries.

To address your father's situation, it's important to consider several factors that may be contributing to his blurry vision and the disparity between his eyes. After retinal detachment surgery, patients can experience a range of visual outcomes, and while some may regain significant vision, others may face challenges due to various complications.

1. Post-Surgical Expectations: After retinal detachment surgery, it is common for patients to experience some degree of visual impairment. The initial goal of the surgery is to reattach the retina, but achieving optimal visual acuity can depend on several factors, including the duration of the detachment, the presence of any pre-existing conditions (like cataracts), and the overall health of the retina and optic nerve.

2. Cataract Development: Cataracts can develop or worsen after retinal surgery, especially if the patient has had a history of eye trauma or surgery. Your father's cataract surgery in February was intended to improve his vision, but if he is still experiencing blurry vision, it may be due to residual cataract material or other complications such as posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which can occur after cataract surgery. This condition can create a "film" over the lens, leading to blurred vision.

3. Neural Factors: If the doctor mentioned potential nerve damage, it is crucial to understand that the optic nerve's health plays a significant role in vision. Damage to the optic nerve can lead to permanent vision loss, and while some recovery may be possible, it is often limited. However, this does not mean that all hope is lost. Some patients may experience gradual improvements over time, so patience is key.

4. Treatment Options: Since your father has already undergone cataract surgery, it would be advisable to follow up with his ophthalmologist regarding the thin membrane he is experiencing. A YAG laser capsulotomy is a common procedure used to treat PCO and can often restore clearer vision. If this has not been discussed, it may be worth bringing up with his doctor.

5. Support and Rehabilitation: In addition to medical treatments, consider exploring low vision rehabilitation services. These programs can provide tools and strategies to help your father adapt to his vision changes, enhancing his quality of life. Support from family members, including emotional encouragement and assistance with daily activities, can also be invaluable during this time.

6. Second Opinion: If you feel uncertain about the current treatment plan or if your father's condition does not improve, seeking a second opinion from another ophthalmologist may provide additional insights or alternative treatment options.

In conclusion, while your father's situation may seem discouraging, there are potential avenues for improvement. Continued communication with his healthcare provider, exploring further treatment options, and seeking supportive resources can all contribute to better management of his condition. Encourage him to remain hopeful and proactive in his recovery journey. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish your father the best in his recovery.

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