Laser Retinal Treatment
A Laser is a concentrated beam of light that can be focused very precisely on diseased tissue. Different lasers are absorbed by different types of body tissue. Retinal lasers have been specially designed to be able to pass through non-retinal tissue (the lens and cornea) without damaging them. Retinal disease is primarily treated using a Thermal Laser. The light energy is absorbed by specific tissue at the back of the eye and is converted to heat with this type of laser. The heat causes a very small area of damage to the retina. As the eye heals from this small area of damage the scar helps to correct the underlying Retinal Disease. Thermal Lasers can be used to seal Retinal Tears, close leaking Blood Vessels or to break down Abnormal Tissue or Blood Vessels.
- What happens during Laser Retinal Treatment
- Your pupils will be dilated
- Local anesthetic (freezing drops) will be placed in your eye.
- If an indirect laser is used you will be positioned so that that you’re lying flat.
- If a microscope is used, a special contact lens will be used to hold your lids apart.
- During treatment, you will see bright flashes of light.
- The treatment usually takes 5 – 10 minutes.
Most patients have little if any pain following Retinal Laser Surgery. Patients who require a more extensive laser may have an ache inside the eye or around the eye. If you have discomfort after the surgery, rest and take Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or another over the counter pain reliever. It is common to have blurry vision for the first few hours after laser surgery. For some lasers you need to restrict your activity. Our doctor will instruct you about any activities that you should limit. Call us immediately if you are experiencing increasing pain or decreased vision.
