7 weeks after retina detachment surgery and the gas bubble has not disipate

[arich3112]

Is it normal to see flashing light after retina detachment surgery, the doctor said I am healing with a scar and she was concerned that the scar tissue could cause a detachment again but said it was healing well.  Almost 7 weeks ago I had the surgery for retina detachment and tear.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Yes it is normal both to have the gas bubble still present and seeing light projected in the field that was lasered.  Use the search feature and archives there are many postings and discussions on the subject.

[arich3112]

Thank you Dr. I get anxious when I see the flash but the dr said once I do not see the shadow as i did before the surgery, my healing is progressing well.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Hope all goes well.

[arich3112]

Dr Hagan, in reference to my question above, will the light go away after a while, I get scared whenever I see the flashes hoping I am not getting RD again?  Thanks

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

These surgeries vary so extremely its not possible to generalize like it is with cataract/implant surgery. Most people do eventually have cessation of flashes.  Do discuss with your surgeon who is in the best position to offer a prognosis.

[MrPresley]

@arich3112 I assume that you had a vitrectomy performed during your retinal detachment surgery since you had a gas bubble used. If so that should have eliminated most if not all of the vitreous traction on your retina that may have caused the original detachment.  Regarding the continuing flashes as long as you are continuing to see your retinal specialist you should be able remain on top of any issues that may come up in the future.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

=

[SashaHannah]

Hi arich3112,

I am 9 weeks post buckle and 2 weeks post vitrectomy, srf drainage and bubble. The photopsias are same now as before tge surgery and they are extremely anxiety inducing. Not knowing and being patient is hard. Im sure i can learn to block them out, like override them to ignore them but this seems dangerous. Its hard to know what to do for the best when life throws you a curveball like this!

Im assuming that the flashes are due to scar tissue which worries me too. Should find out soon enough what the surgeon thinks.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

=