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? 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 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 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? 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.   Related Articles What Causes Retinal Holes? Symptoms and Treatment Options Signs of Retinal Swelling You Should Not Ignore Diabetic Retinopathy Symptoms and Prevention 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.