Retinal surgery and concern over scar tissue
Hello, I originally had retinal surgery via laser. The surgery was unsuccessful and I needed to do the more invasive surgery with a gas bubble. Everything seemed to be fine; however, I just came back from my follow up and the doctor is concerned because he sees some scar tissue. I am now terrified. He recommended I lay on my left side when sleeping and follow up soon. Has anyone experienced this? What can help reduce my scarring? Is this reversible? I hear anti-inflammatory diets may help with healing. Any information I could be provided with would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
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Hello @wbgreen and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. Your concern about the scar tissue is certainly understandable. Is your vision impaired or do have any eye discomfort?
You mentioned that your doctor recommended follow up. Did he indicate what type of follow up would be needed?
Thank you for commenting. I do not feel discomfort. I still have have the bubble in my eye. The follow up is part of the surgery follow up and for monitoring the scar tissue.
Thanks for the additional information, @wbgreen. Connect does have several discussions about retinal surgery. Here are the links,
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/retinal-detachment-surgery/
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/scarring-after-cataract-surgery/
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/macula-hole-macula-pucker/
If you read through these discussions, you might find some added information that would help you understand this better.
Have you asked your doctor these questions? If not, you might consider calling the office and leaving a message about these concerns or talking with his nurse, a Physician's Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner who works with him.
When is your next follow-up appointment? Will you post again and let me know how you are doing?
I have had six eye surgeries in the last year. My retina was detached; it took 2 surgeries for that, one to remove a charact, 2 for scar removal. Had one today. I’m told smoking aggravates it and I’ve smoked most of my life so I’m trying to quit
The bubble is no big deal I’m told. Keeps retina from detaching and is gone in a few days. Also had to put in silicone oil both surgically to put in and take out