What is the Treatment for Fluid Behind the Retina After Surgery?

The retina contains photoreceptor cells that detect light and converts the light into electrical signals by way of the optic nerve to the brain. The result is relaying from the eye to the brain the images you see before you. Although many different structures of the eye work together to bring clarity to vision, the retina is responsible for that visual picture. Common symptoms for retinal issues include changes in vision, blurred vision, loss of vision, an onset of eye floaters, flashes of light, trouble seeing at night, difficulty adjusting to changes in light, changes in color perception, reduced peripheral or central vision and a grey or dark curtain covering over the eye obstructing vision.

Retinal detachment is a very serious eye condition that if left untreated can result in permanent vision loss. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency and early intervention is required. Intervention usually involves a type of retinal surgery. The 3 types of surgery used to repair a detached retina are pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle and vitrectomy. Surgeries vary in approach and type of remedy to repair retinal tears either by laser or freezing and repositioning the detached retina. In any retinal surgery, there is potential for fluid to remain behind. Fluid (liquid vitreous) is what can cause the retina to detach in the first place. This is not the fluid left behind after retina surgery. The fluid inside the retina post-surgery is called macular edema or swelling of the retina. This after effect can resolve on its own with treatment or your surgeon may prescribe drops or injections, depending on the severity of the swelling. It is possible for scar tissue to develop, and the treatment of the scar tissue may result in another surgery. 

Recovery from retinal surgery can take 1 to 3 weeks. Vision improvement can take time following surgery; blurriness, irritation, redness, double vision, increased sensitivity to light and swelling are common side effects but are usually temporary and should resolve in time. 

For more questions regarding retinal surgery or to schedule a retinal imaging exam, call 602-242-4928 or book online at associatedretinaconsultants.com for an appointment with Associated Retina Consultants.