Optic nerve damage after retinal surgery

[jazpdz]

I had 20/20 (with glasses) vision, both eyes before retinal surgery for the right eye. The surgeon said the surgery was a success, I had a gas bubble that remained for 8 weeks and a scleral band. After the gas bubble dissolved I told the surgeon that my vision was cloudy (like looking through very wrinkled plastic - saran - wrap). He said vision problem was caused by a cataract - which my ophthalmologist 1 day prior to the surgery said might become a problem in 5 - 10 years. I told the surgeon that I had no eye pain but my eye felt irritated, thick constantly. The retinal surgeon scheduled cataract surgery 4 months later. No change in vision. The cataract surgeon referred me to a neuro ophthalmologist who said I have optic nerve damage. At this point I still have full vision field but blurry vision. Any ideas, suggestions for what can be done? Can the optic nerve be repaired or heal itself if the source of irritation is found and eliminated?

[jazpdz]

Over time could it regrow or get better if the cause of the damage is alleviated? (I'm assuming inflammation, or restricted blood flow)

Thank you for responding.

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

No,  the optic nerve can not be repaired.

Dr. O.