Eye Surgery in Baton Rouge, LA
Retinal Surgical Specialist
Service Details
Retinal surgery may be indicated by your retinal specialist to address a variety of retinal diagnoses. Retinal conditions like retinal disease or eye trauma can lead to irreversible vision problems or retinal detachment. Different retinal surgery techniques are used to repair a damaged retina. The procedure your doctor recommends for you will vary depending on your individual needs. Retinal surgery involves using advanced surgical technology and microscopic precision. It can provide amazing results when done correctly.
What is the retina?
The retina is the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye, and the vitreous is the clear, jelly-like substance that fills the space between the retina and the lens. The retina is responsible for sending light signals to the brain through the optic nerve about what you see. The brain then converts the signals into visual pictures with great detail. Without a healthy retina, vision is distorted and blurry, and can result in complete visual loss without surgical intervention.
Common Retinal Surgeries
The most common type of retinal surgery is pars plana vitrectomy (PPV or vitrectomy). A vitrectomy is used to remove the vitreous gel in the eye. It may be performed for a number of reasons, including repair of a retinal tear or detachment, or removal of a foreign body from the eye.
A scleral buckle is another type of retina surgery that is used to repair a detached retina. The surgery involves placing a silicone band around the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. The band helps to push the wall of the eye back into place so the retina can reattach itself.
Another surgery used to repair a detached retina is called pneumatic retinopexy. This procedure is less invasive than the scleral buckle and can be used as an alternative that requires less recovery time. Pneumatic retinopexy is often completed in the office.
What to Expect Before and After Surgery
Most retinal surgery can be done with light sedation and local anesthesia. Pain and discomfort are minimal and physical recovery is usually quick.
In general, vitreoretinal surgeries involve your surgeon making small incisions to adequately access the retina and vitreous. Once the surgeon has access to these structures, they can repair the damage or provide other treatments.
Vision recovery will vary from patient to patient depending on the condition and the type of surgery you have. Your surgeon will go over all the surgery and recovery expectations in detail prior to the procedure.
Benefits and Risks of Retinal Surgery
Retinal surgery has both risks and benefits, just like any other surgery. If retinal surgery is recommended for you, your retina expert has determined the benefits of retinal surgery outweigh the risks. In your case, surgery may be the best option to keep your vision from worsening. In many cases, retina surgery improves vision. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have prior to scheduling your surgery.
Schedule a Consultation Today
To learn more about retinal surgery and if it’s right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled and compassionate doctors!
