Retinal detachment is an emergency condition caused when the retina is lifted or pulled from its normal position. There are three types of surgeries that can be done for retinal detachment. Your eye specialist at the Melrose House will be able to evaluate the severity of the detachment and which of the three surgeries would be best suited.

WHAT DOES RETINAL DETACHMENT SURGERY ENTAIL?

• Pars Plana Vitrectomy
  A vitrectomy may be done for retinal detachment, Micro-incisions are made into the eye, and the vitreous is removed to relieve pulling on the retina. The fluid under the retina is then drained, and the tear is sealed with a laser. Thereafter a saline, gas bubble or silicone oil may be used to replace the vitreous gel and help hold the retina in position. Over time the bubble is reabsorbed, and the vitreous cavity refills with the fluid that is naturally produced by the eye..
• Pneumatic Retinopexy
  Pneumatic retinopexy is another retinal surgery done for retinal detachment. This involves the injection of a gas bubble into the back of the eye. This bubble then seals the tear and prevents more fluid from collecting under the retina. It also allows the fluid already present to be pumped out, allowing the retina to reattach. Retinal tears may be sealed with additional laser therapy.
• Scleral buckle
  In select cases, a scleral buckle surgery may be done for the repair of retinal detachment. During this retina surgery, a buckle made of silicone is attached to the sclera to relieve traction from the vitreous on the retina. Fluid may then be drained from under the retina.
  
  After the surgery, you will be able to go home on the same day. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home. You may have a gas or air bubble in your eye, in which case you will be informed to keep your head in a specific position for a certain period of time. Your recovery should take 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, you may not drive, fly in an aeroplane (if you have a gas bubble), rub your eye, strain your eye or wash your eye. You will be prescribed pain medication be given eye drops for the next few weeks.