What You Should Know Before Retinal Surgery: Preparation and Precautions

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Patients who may require retinal surgery include those with retinal detachment, severe diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, epiretinal membranes, or vitreous hemorrhage.
Main retinal surgery techniques include vitrectomy, which removes cloudy or blood-filled vitreous gel while repairing the retina using laser treatment, gas injection, or silicone oil; another method is scleral buckling, which supports the retina externally to help it reattach to the eye wall.
Technologies used in retinal surgery include micro-surgical instruments, surgical microscopes, intraocular laser systems, silicone oil or gas tamponade, and OCT imaging to assess retinal damage in detail.

Retinal surgery is a complex and important treatment for patients with severe eye conditions such as retinal tears, detachment, or advanced retinal degeneration. Without timely treatment, these conditions may lead to permanent vision loss. Understanding surgical procedures, technologies used, and treatment indications can help reduce anxiety and allow patients and families to prepare physically and emotionally. Strict adherence to pre- and post-operative instructions also improves recovery outcomes and reduces the risk of complications.

Who needs retinal surgery?

Who Needs Retinal Surgery?

Retinal surgery is considered when retinal damage becomes severe and cannot be effectively treated with other methods. Conditions requiring surgery include:

Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is an ophthalmic emergency where the retina separates from underlying tissue, disrupting visual function. Without prompt treatment, permanent vision loss may occur. Symptoms include flashes of light, floaters, a dark curtain over part of vision, or blurred sight. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment by an ophthalmologist are essential.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, especially wet AMD, involves abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina. These fragile vessels may leak blood or fluid, causing central vision distortion, blurring, or dark spots.

The disease can progress rapidly. Treatments such as anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, or retinal surgery may slow progression and preserve vision.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy results from chronic high blood sugar damaging retinal blood vessels, leading to leakage, swelling, or bleeding. This causes blurred vision and, if untreated, permanent vision loss.

Treatment includes blood sugar control, laser therapy, intraocular injections, or retinal surgery depending on severity. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection.

Macular Hole

A macular hole is a small defect in the central retina responsible for detailed vision. It may cause distorted central vision while peripheral vision remains normal.

Common causes include aging, vitreous traction, or eye injury. Surgery is often required to close the hole and improve vision.

Epiretinal Membrane

Epiretinal membrane is a thin scar tissue layer on the retinal surface, often affecting the macula. It can distort vision, causing curved lines or double vision.

Mild cases may not require treatment, but severe cases affecting daily life may require surgical removal.

Vitreous Hemorrhage

Vitreous hemorrhage occurs when blood leaks into the vitreous gel, causing hazy or dark vision. Severe cases may significantly impair vision.

Common causes include diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears, trauma, or abnormal retinal vessels. Treatment ranges from observation to laser therapy or vitrectomy surgery.

Preparing for retinal surgery

Preparing for Retinal Surgery

Proper preparation helps reduce complications and supports faster recovery.

Consult your ophthalmologist thoroughly and disclose medical history, medications, and chronic conditions. Preoperative tests may include blood tests or ECG.
Inform your doctor about all medications. Some drugs affecting blood clotting may need temporary discontinuation.
Fasting for at least 6–8 hours before surgery is typically recommended.
Arrange transportation and a caregiver for post-operative support due to temporary blurred vision.

Retinal Surgery Procedures

Retinal surgery involves various techniques depending on disease type and severity.

Vitrectomy

This procedure uses very fine instruments inserted through small incisions in the white of the eye. The surgeon removes cloudy or blood-filled vitreous gel, treats underlying retinal conditions with laser therapy, and may inject gas or silicone oil to help reattach the retina. Dissolvable sutures close the incisions.

Scleral Buckling

This technique places a silicone band or sponge on the outer eye wall to support retinal reattachment. It is commonly used for retinal detachment caused by tears.

The material typically remains permanently without complications. Some patients may require fluid drainage beneath the retina. Temporary redness or blurred vision may occur initially.

Technology used in retinal surgery

Technology Used in Retinal Surgery

Modern retinal surgery combines surgical skill with advanced medical technology for improved safety and precision.

Micro-instruments: Extremely small surgical tools minimize incision size and speed recovery.
Surgical microscope: Provides magnified visualization of delicate retinal structures.
Endolaser: Treats abnormal vessels or seals retinal tears internally.
Silicone oil or gas: Helps press the retina back into position during healing.
OCT imaging: Provides detailed retinal scans before and after surgery.

Postoperative Care Guidelines

Proper self-care after surgery improves recovery and reduces complications.

If gas or silicone oil is injected, patients may need specific positioning such as face-down or side-lying.
Use prescribed eye drops exactly as directed.
Avoid water exposure to the eye during the first week and refrain from rubbing the eye.
Avoid air travel if gas is present due to pressure changes.
Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, and contact sports.
Rest adequately and limit intensive visual tasks.

Expected Results and Recovery Time

Retinal surgery helps correct abnormalities and prevent future vision loss. Outcomes depend on disease severity. Some patients see improvement quickly, while others may take months. Typical recovery lasts about 1–2 weeks, with activity restrictions during healing.

Cost of Retinal Surgery

Costs vary based on surgical technique, technology, and individual treatment needs. Fees typically include surgeon costs, operating room charges, medications, and intraocular lens expenses if required.

Retinal Surgery Technology at Bangkok Eye Hospital

Bangkok Eye Hospital utilizes advanced PPV (Pars Plana Vitrectomy) technology with the Constellation Vision System, internationally recognized for treating complex retinal conditions such as detachment, diabetic retinopathy, and macular disorders.

The ULTRAVIT® vitrectomy cutter operates at extremely high speeds, allowing gentle vitreous removal with minimal retinal traction. Intelligent intraocular pressure control maintains stable eye pressure throughout surgery, reducing complication risks.

High-resolution Xenon illumination enhances visualization of delicate retinal tissue, while PurePoint® endolaser technology precisely treats tears or abnormal vessels. These integrated technologies allow comprehensive retinal repair in a single procedure.

Small-gauge surgery results in tiny self-sealing incisions, minimizing irritation and accelerating recovery. Postoperative positioning may still be necessary if gas or silicone oil is used.

Why choose retinal surgery at Bangkok Eye Hospital Retina Center?

Why Choose Retinal Surgery at Bangkok Eye Hospital?

Bangkok Eye Hospital provides comprehensive retinal surgery services using advanced technology and experienced specialists from the Retina Center. Patients receive:

Comprehensive eye examinations for precise treatment planning.
Advanced technologies such as micro-surgery tools, laser therapy, and OCT imaging.
Close postoperative monitoring and rehabilitation support.
Personalized treatment advice tailored to lifestyle and eye condition.
Comfortable care throughout surgery and recovery.

Summary

Retinal surgery is essential for conditions such as retinal detachment, macular holes, or diabetic retinopathy. Modern techniques including vitrectomy and scleral buckling, supported by advanced technology, enhance safety and treatment outcomes. Patients should follow preoperative instructions, arrange post-surgical care, and attend follow-up appointments. Recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks depending on severity. Consult Bangkok Eye Hospital for comprehensive retinal care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about retinal surgery to help patients prepare confidently.

What symptoms occur after retinal surgery?

Temporary blurred vision, mild irritation, tearing, floaters, or flashes may occur. Severe pain or worsening vision should be reported immediately.

How long is hospitalization required?

Typically 1–2 days depending on surgical complexity and patient condition.

Why must patients lie face-down after surgery?

Face-down positioning helps gas or silicone oil support retinal reattachment, improving healing and visual outcomes.

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Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes produce insufficient tears or poor-quality tears, leading to dryness, irritation, discomfort, or visual disturbance. Common vision problems include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia. Vitreous degeneration refers to changes in the eye’s vitreous gel becoming more liquid or forming clumps, causing floaters. Macular degeneration involves deterioration of the central retina, leading to distorted, blurred vision and possible vision loss. Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s lens and blurred vision; glaucoma results from increased eye pressure damaging the optic nerve and risking vision loss; pterygium is degeneration of conjunctival tissue that may cause blurred vision or increased astigmatism; pinguecula is a similar conjunctival growth that does not extend onto the cornea. We rely on our eyes constantly to observe the world around us, which places significant strain on them and increases the risk of eye problems. Understanding common eye diseases and vision conditions helps us care for and protect our eyes properly, recognize early symptoms, and seek timely treatment to reduce the risk of future complications. Dry Eye Syndrome Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes cannot produce enough quality tears, leading to irritation, burning sensations, foreign body sensation, or excessive tearing. Common causes include prolonged screen use, dry or windy environments, and extended contact lens wear. Relief and prevention include using artificial tears, resting the eyes regularly, blinking frequently, and avoiding dry environments. Refractive Vision Problems Refractive errors are among the most common vision issues across all age groups. They occur when light entering the eye fails to focus precisely on the retina, resulting in blurred vision. Types include: Myopia (Nearsightedness) Myopia occurs when the cornea is too curved or the eyeball is elongated, causing light to focus in front of the retina. This results in clear near vision but blurred distance vision. People may squint or strain their eyes to see clearly and sometimes experience headaches. Genetics plays a major role, especially if parents are myopic. Prolonged near work, limited outdoor activity, and excessive screen use can worsen symptoms. Hyperopia (Farsightedness) Hyperopia may occur from birth or develop with age, resulting in difficulty focusing on near objects. Congenital Farsightedness Occurs when the cornea is too flat or the eyeball is shorter than normal, causing light to focus behind the retina. Individuals typically see distant objects clearly but struggle with near vision. It is often hereditary. Presbyopia Presbyopia results from aging as the eye’s lens stiffens and loses flexibility, reducing focusing ability. Symptoms include difficulty reading small print, eye strain, headaches, sensitivity to light, and reduced night vision. Astigmatism Astigmatism occurs when the cornea has an irregular shape, causing multiple focal points instead of one. Symptoms include eye strain, blurred or distorted vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night. Causes may include congenital corneal irregularities, injury, eye surgery, or conditions such as keratoconus. Vitreous Degeneration The vitreous is a clear gel filling the back of the eye. Vitreous degeneration occurs when the gel liquefies or forms clumps, leading to floaters or flashes of light. It commonly occurs with aging, especially after age 50 or in individuals with myopia. Untreated cases may increase the risk of retinal tears or detachment. Common Eye Diseases Eye diseases can significantly affect vision if not properly diagnosed and treated. Understanding symptoms and treatments helps protect eye health. Cataracts Cataracts occur when the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, reducing light transmission and gradually impairing vision. Common in older adults but may occur in younger individuals due to steroid use, trauma, or inflammation. Glaucoma Glaucoma involves optic nerve damage often linked to high eye pressure. Acute cases may cause pain, blurred vision, halos around lights, headache, nausea, or vomiting, while chronic glaucoma may progress silently. Pterygium and Pinguecula Pterygium is degeneration of conjunctival tissue growing toward the cornea, potentially causing blurred vision or astigmatism. Pinguecula is similar but does not invade the cornea. Age-Related Macular Degeneration Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the central retina, usually in individuals over 60, though increasingly seen earlier. It may cause distorted central vision, blurring, or dark spots. While not curable, progression can be slowed through regular screening, healthy lifestyle habits, UV protection, balanced nutrition, exercise, weight control, and avoiding smoking. Why Get Eye Checkups at Bangkok Eye Hospital? Bangkok Eye Hospital provides comprehensive eye care using advanced technology and experienced ophthalmologists across specialties. Services include detailed diagnosis, treatment, follow-up care, personalized consultation, and a comfortable treatment environment. Summary Regular eye care is essential. Annual eye examinations help detect abnormalities early. Adequate rest, balanced nutrition rich in vitamins A and C, and proper visual habits support eye health. Visit Bangkok Eye Hospital for comprehensive eye care services. Related Articles LASIK for Myopia: Preparation and Benefits Glaucoma Treatment and Prevention Understanding Retinitis: Causes and Treatment Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Common questions about eye health and vision problems to help patients better understand prevention and treatment. How should older adults care for their vision? Regular eye exams at least annually, adequate rest, hydration, balanced diet rich in antioxidants, avoiding smoking, and controlling blood sugar are important preventive measures. How can vision problems in children be prevented? Encourage regular breaks during near work, limit screen time, promote outdoor activities, ensure adequate lighting, and schedule regular eye examinations. What should I do if I experience dizziness or blurred vision? Consult an ophthalmologist for eye examination, adjust glasses or contact lenses if necessary, rest your eyes regularly, and avoid bright glare. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.

What Is Having Both Myopia and Farsightedness? Treatment and Prevention Options

Having both myopia and farsightedness together refers to a condition where both near and distant vision are unclear, commonly occurring in people with myopia who begin to develop age-related presbyopia. Both myopia and farsightedness can be treated simultaneously with glasses, contact lenses, LASIK surgery, or intraocular lens implantation, depending on an ophthalmologist’s recommendation. The choice of treatment depends on vision prescription, age, corneal thickness, and professional advice from an ophthalmologist. Having both myopia and farsightedness simultaneously is a condition found in some adults, particularly when individuals with myopia begin to develop presbyopia. This causes abnormalities in both near and distance vision, affecting daily activities such as reading, working on screens, or driving. Understanding the causes and treatment options helps patients choose appropriate, safe, and effective eye care solutions. What Does Having Both Myopia and Farsightedness Mean? Having both myopia and farsightedness means both near and distant vision become unclear. People who already have myopia may use glasses to improve distance vision, but when presbyopia develops with age, those same glasses may no longer provide clear near vision, requiring adjustments or new lenses. In people with myopia, the issue is mainly due to the eye’s physical structure — either an elongated eyeball or an overly curved cornea — causing incoming light to focus in front of the retina. This results in blurred distance vision and often develops during childhood or adolescence. Presbyopia, on the other hand, is unrelated to eyeball length. It is a natural age-related condition typically beginning after age 40. The crystalline lens inside the eye gradually loses elasticity and the focusing muscles weaken, reducing the eye’s ability to focus on near objects. When both conditions occur together, the structural myopia remains unchanged while age-related lens stiffness develops concurrently. This situation can be challenging: distance vision remains blurry due to existing myopia, while wearing myopic glasses may worsen near vision because the aging lens can no longer adjust focus effectively. However, individuals with mild myopia (around -1.00 to -2.00 diopters) may sometimes read comfortably without glasses because their natural focal point aligns with reading distance. Once they wear myopic glasses again, near vision blur often returns. Correction and Treatment Options Treatment focuses on ensuring incoming light accurately focuses on the retina. Options generally fall into three main categories: 1. External Vision Correction Devices Using external devices is a safe and easily adaptable option for those with both myopia and farsightedness. Progressive Eyeglasses Progressive lenses are currently the most popular option and represent a modern standard for working adults. These seamless lenses gradually change prescription from top to bottom — distance correction at the top, intermediate vision in the middle (e.g., computer use), and near vision at the bottom. The main advantage is clear vision at all distances without switching glasses. They also lack visible dividing lines, maintaining a youthful appearance. However, some users may need a short adaptation period. Contact Lenses Multifocal contact lenses function similarly to progressive glasses, incorporating multiple prescriptions in a single lens. They often use concentric ring designs to support both near and distance vision. The brain adapts by selecting the clearest image automatically. While convenient and glasses-free, sharpness may be slightly reduced compared with eyeglasses, particularly in low light, and adaptation may take time. Another option is monovision, where one eye is corrected for distance (dominant eye) and the other for near vision. The brain combines both images for functional daily vision. This approach is often more affordable than multifocal lenses but may slightly reduce depth perception, affecting night driving or 3D perception in some individuals. A combined approach involves wearing myopia-correcting contact lenses for clear distance vision and using reading glasses only when needed. This provides excellent clarity at lower cost but does not eliminate glasses entirely. Because fitting contact lenses for this condition is complex, professional evaluation by an ophthalmologist or optometrist is essential. One drawback may be higher long-term costs and the need for careful lens hygiene. 2. Laser Vision Correction LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) permanently corrects refractive errors including vision prescriptions such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The procedure involves creating a corneal flap, reshaping the cornea with laser energy, and repositioning the flap. Recovery is typically quick, with clearer vision often within 24–48 hours. Temporary dry eyes, glare, or halos at night may occur during adjustment. It is suitable for individuals wanting to reduce reliance on glasses or contact lenses with adequate corneal thickness. Those with severe dry eyes, chronic eye disease, or unsuitable prescriptions may consider PRK or refractive lens exchange (RLE). 3. Intraocular Lens Implant Surgery RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange) involves replacing the natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It is suitable for individuals with significant combined myopia and farsightedness or presbyopia. Modern IOLs can correct multiple refractive errors simultaneously. How to Choose the Right Treatment Selecting the best treatment depends not only on visual clarity needs but also on several factors: Lifestyle and preferences: Glasses or contact lenses suit those avoiding surgery, while LASIK or RLE offer longer-term solutions. Overall eye health: Detailed eye examinations assess corneal thickness, retinal health, and other conditions to determine safe treatment. Cost considerations: Surgical treatments typically cost more upfront than glasses or contact lenses. Expected outcomes: Laser surgery may reduce but not always eliminate the need for reading glasses. Why Choose LASER VISION Center at Bangkok Eye Hospital? Bangkok Eye Hospital provides comprehensive eye care with advanced technology at the LASER VISION Center and experienced ophthalmologists. Services include accurate diagnosis, treatment for myopia, hyperopia, and other vision problems, along with continuous follow-up care. The hospital emphasizes personalized consultation, appropriate treatment recommendations, and a supportive environment for safe, comprehensive eye care. Summary Combined myopia and farsightedness occur when individuals with myopia develop age-related presbyopia, causing both near and distance vision difficulties. Existing myopic glasses may improve distance vision but not near vision. Correction options include glasses, contact lenses, LASIK, or intraocular lens surgery. The best choice depends on prescription, age, eye health, and lifestyle. For comprehensive diagnosis and treatment, visit Bangkok Eye Hospital, equipped with advanced technology, specialists, and dedicated eye care centers. Related Articles Understanding Vision Prescriptions and Their Impact on Daily Life PRK vs LASIK: Eye Surgery Techniques You Should Know Before Deciding FemtoLASIK: Advanced, Safe, and Precise Vision Correction Technology Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) People with both myopia and farsightedness often have questions about symptoms and treatment options. Here are common FAQs: Can LASIK treat both myopia and farsightedness? Yes, LASIK can treat both conditions, but suitability depends on corneal thickness and eye health. Some patients may require alternative options such as intraocular lenses for optimal safety and results. How should contact lenses be chosen? People with combined refractive errors may use multifocal or progressive contact lenses designed for multiple focusing distances. Consultation with an ophthalmologist or contact lens specialist is recommended for proper selection. What are the symptoms? Symptoms include blurred near and distance vision. Individuals who previously used myopic glasses may find distance vision clear but struggle with reading or phone use due to presbyopia, requiring adjustments in eyewear.