Prognosis Following Retinal Tear Laser Surgery

Retinal tear surgery can be done by laser or by cryotherapy. Both procedures seal the lifted piece of retina back to the wall of the eye by causing a scar to form. Laser repair is less irritating to the eye, according to the Mayo Clinic. Prognosis depends on the degree and cause of the tear.

Immediately after Surgery

• Vision from laser may be decreased from the bright light for 10 to 15 minutes. There may be mild discomfort. Vision will be blurry.

Several Months afer Surgery

• Vision could remain blurry for a long time after laser surgery. Depending on where the tear was, you could have a blind spot.

Side Effects

• Light sensitivity and night blindness are common after laser surgery. Floaters may be seen initially from debris in the vitreous.

Complications

• As with any medical procedure, there may be complications. Bleeding could occur, or a large scar could form. Blurry vision could be permanent. Pressure in the eye could rise to dangerous levels.

Recovery

• Repair of retinal tears is generally very successful. Vision recovery depends on retinal problems that existed before the tear or that caused the tear.