Best Procedures and Treatment Options for Retinal Detachment

The retina is a thin layer of tissue located near the optic nerve. Its role is to receive light focused by the lens and convert it into signals that are sent to the brain, allowing us to visually perceive the world around us. However, the retina can be affected by several diseases, including retinal detachment, which interferes with its function and can lead to vision loss if left untreated.  

In this article, Batal Specialized Center provides everything you need to know about retinal detachment treatment and post‑operative instructions.

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A Guide to the Best Procedures and Treatment Methods for Retinal Detachment

Surgery for a retinal tear or detachment is performed to treat retinal detachment caused by a retinal break or by the separation of the vitreous gel from the retina, which fills the back of the eye and, when it pulls away, can cause the retina to detach. Surgery aims to repair the retina, reattach it to its normal position, strengthen the connection between its layers, and restore its blood and oxygen supply, thereby protecting the patient from vision loss.

Surgical intervention is almost always used to repair a retinal tear, hole, or detachment. After a detailed examination in the clinic (which may include ocular ultrasound), the retina specialist will determine the most appropriate method to repair the detachment.

In general, there are three main surgical techniques used to repair a detached retina: vitrectomy, scleral buckle, and pneumatic retinopexy. In some cases, a combination of these procedures is required to successfully reattach the retina. Below is a brief overview of the most effective retinal detachment treatments:

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Vitrectomy for Retinal Detachment

Vitrectomy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. The retina specialist removes the vitreous gel, reattaches the retina, and treats it with laser (laser photocoagulation). At the end of the operation, the eye is filled with a gas bubble to “splint” or support the retina from the inside. This gas bubble is gradually absorbed by the eye over a period of about 2–6 weeks.

In more complex retinal detachments, the specialist may fill the eye with silicone oil instead of gas. In such cases, a second surgery is often required a few months later to remove the silicone oil.

Scleral Buckle Surgery

In scleral buckle surgery, a silicone band is sutured around the outer wall of the eye (the sclera, the white part of the eye), just beneath the conjunctiva. This indentation brings the wall of the eye closer to the detached retina, helping to reattach it and seal the retinal tear, thereby repairing the detachment.

This surgery usually includes either cryotherapy (freezing treatment) or laser photocoagulation to create a permanent adhesion (“welding” the retina) around the retinal break to prevent redetachment. The scleral buckle is generally left in place permanently, although it can be removed later if necessary once the retina has fully healed.

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Pneumatic Retinopexy

Unlike the first two methods, pneumatic retinopexy is performed in the clinic rather than the operating room. The procedure involves injecting a small gas bubble into the eye. Afterward, the patient may be instructed to position their head in a specific way so that the bubble presses against the retinal tear. Laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy is usually performed a day or two later to seal the retina in place.

This approach is suitable only for certain types of retinal detachment. Your surgeon will advise you if you are a good candidate for pneumatic retinopexy.

Diagnosing and Planning Surgery for Retinal Detachment

The choice of treatment method for retinal detachment depends on several factors, including the cause of the retinal tear and its size and location. The type of anesthesia used also varies according to the patient’s condition, ranging from local anesthesia to general anesthesia, especially in children or highly sensitive patients.

The main goal of surgery is to reattach the retina to its normal position using techniques such as laser treatment, intraocular gas injection, intraocular tamponade (gas or silicone oil), or placing a scleral buckle to prevent the retina from detaching again.  

In most cases, the ophthalmologist will examine both eyes, even if symptoms are present in only one eye. If no tear is visible during the first visit, the doctor may ask you to come back for another examination after a few weeks, as new tears can develop over time.

Post‑Operative Instructions

Studies show that surgical treatment of retinal detachment, including serous (exudative) retinal detachment in selected cases, can be successful in up to about 90% of patients. Some common post‑operative findings include eye redness and irritation after surgery. Early improvement in vision is often one of the first positive signs indicating successful retinal reattachment.

To achieve the best outcome, it is essential to follow all post‑operative instructions, including taking prescribed medications and using eye drops exactly as directed. In addition, the patient should avoid direct sunlight, refrain from smoking, and not use eye makeup until complete healing has occurred.

In summary, timely treatment of retinal detachment significantly improves visual outcomes. Early diagnosis plays a critical role in preventing complications such as persistent blurry vision or permanent vision loss.

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Our medical team is always ready to provide patients with the highest level of care before and after retinal detachment surgery. We also offer our patients a free consultation service at any time. Do not hesitate to contact us and book an appointment.