fbpx
Language: English ENGLISH
Book a Consultation

Retinal Detachment Treatment

At a glance:

RETINAL DETACHMENT TREATMENT

Book a consultation NOW


Symptoms:

Floaters, flashes of light, shadow in the visual field. 

Diagnosis:

Retinal tears or full detachment identified via a dilated eye exam.

Treatment:

Retinal laser, Vitreoretinal surgery, Scleral Buckle, or Pneumatic retinopexy to reattach the retinal. 

Celebrating 12 years of Clinica London! By Ms Jane Olver 10

Our clinic operates as a private surgery and is not affiliated with the NHS (National Health Service)

What is Retinal Detachment Treatment 


Retinal detachment treatment at Clinica London is used to correct severe conditions wherein the retina detaches from its normal position. This condition develops when the retina, a light-sensitive membrane located at the back of the eye, separates and fluid accumulates under the retina. If left untreated, this can cause permanent blindness.  

 Retinal detachment is often preceeded by a posterior vitreous detachment where the vitreous gel filling the eye detaches from the retina causing a hole or tear in the retina through which fluid can seep. If the fluid reaches to under the sensitive area of the retina called the macula, vision can be irreversibly affected. 

A detached retina typically develops when the retina tears or splits, allowing fluid to leak underneath and eventually detaching the retina from the back of the eye. Those who have a family history of the condition or those who have severe myopia are more likely to experience complications. It can also be caused by blunt or penetrating eye trauma such as with sports injuries or assault. However, retinal detachment can also occur for a variety of other reasons, including age, prior eye surgery, or specific medical disorders. Retinal detachment symptoms can be immediate, with floaters, flashes of light, and a darkening of peripheral vision that can escalate to total vision loss. These symptoms require immediate medical treatment.  

 At Clinica London, we provide a range of treatment options based on the severity and type of retinal detachment. Among our options are laser surgery, pneumatic retinopexy, vitreo-retinal surgery with vitrectomy, and cryotherapy with scleral buckling. Our skilled ophthalmologists are dedicated to providing the most significant level of care, using advanced procedures and equipment to provide the best possible outcomes for our patients with retinal detachments.  

 If you have any retinal detachment symptoms or have any worries about your eye health, be sure to contact us immediately. Clinica London’s top priority is to protect and restore your vision. 

BOOK A CONSULTATION VIEW PRICES

Do I need Retinal Detachment??


At Clinica London, our team of experts recognises the urgency of treating retinal detachment to protect your vision. Whether you’re at higher risk due to a history in your family, you suffer from previous eye conditions or myopia, or you are experiencing symptoms, our comprehensive care begins with a detailed dilated eye exam.  

Our retinal consultants are qualified to diagnose and address early signs of retinal detachment through techniques such as laser treatment. With personalised care, we offer a range of treatment options based on the severity, type and size of retinal detachment. Your vision is our priority; early detection and treatment at Clinica London are key. 

  

BOOK A CONSULTATION


Diagnosing Retinal Detachment


Diagnosing retinal detachment at Clinica London involves a precise examination by the retinal surgical specialist. Your ophthalmologist will conduct a dilated eye exam, using drops to widen your pupil for a clear retina view. This painless procedure is essential for identifying any tears or a detached retina.  

Diagnostic imaging will also likely be required with wide-field photography by scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO) and ocular coherence tomography (OCT) of the macula and retina. Our diagnostic retinal screening uses the Heidelberg Spectralis OCT (Ocular Coherence Tomography). This non-invasive imaging test uses light waves to take photographs of the back of your eye and shows the different layers of your retina. OCT is a cutting-edge clinical retinal imaging technology that combines scanning laser fundus imaging with high-resolution.  

Patients are advised to come with a companion who can help and guide them after the exam since the examination involves pupil dilation, which can temporarily blur vision.  

Our consultants, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and expertise, ensure a precise diagnosis, guiding you swiftly towards the appropriate treatment path. Early detection is crucial, and our commitment is to provide accurate and comprehensive care to safeguard your vision. Catching the retinal tear and retinal detachment early is important to provide the optimal treatment and preserve central vision.  

Treatment for Retinal Detachment 


The retinal detachment approach at Clinica London is tailored to each patient’s condition, ensuring the best possible outcome. The primary objective is to seal the retinal hole or tear and to reattach the retina to the back of the eye from which it has detached. Treatments range from relatively simple out-patient retinal laser or local cryotherapy if there is just a hole or tear with very little fluid seeped out under the retina to more extensive vitreo-retinal surgery and laser carried out using endo-micro instruments with vitrectomy. 

Preparing for procedure 

Before undergoing treatment for retinal detachment, patients are thoroughly examined, including an in-depth examination of the eye, eye pressure, lens, vitreous gel, macula, and retina. The diagnosis once made, the patient is advised of the options for treatment, whether laser, cryotherapy or surgery performed from the outside of the eye or requiring surgical vitrectomy.  

Laser retinopexy is carried out at the clinic slit lamp with topical or local sub-tenons anaesthesia. Local anaesthetic when injected, is only in the surrounding tissue of the eye.  

More extensive cryotherapy or surgery always requires eye anaesthetic drops a special sub tenons local anaesthetic injection, and sometimes local sedation to relax the patient, done in an operating theatre with the patient flat and using the operating microscope plus fine endo vitreoretinal instruments and lasers. 

Note: We offer retrobulbar block, an injection of local anaesthetic fluid into the orbit, which stops the feeling of any discomfort and eye movement. Sub-tenons local anaesthesia is a variation of a retrobulbar block.  

 

BOOK A CONSULTATION

During the procedure  

Vitreoretinal surgery 

Vitreoretinal surgery is a pivotal treatment for conditions such as retinal detachment. This intricate procedure often involves a vitrectomy, where the vitreous gel causing the retinal tear is delicately removed. 

The retinal repair is then undertaken using laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy to seal the tear, promoting a scar formation around it. A gas or silicone oil bubble is introduced into the eye to aid in the reattachment and healing of the retina. This bubble acts as a support, pressing the retina back against the eye wall. 

The duration of the surgery varies depending on the severity and specifics of the retinal condition. Throughout the process, anaesthetics are administered to ensure patient comfort and safety. 

Scleral Buckle 

Another effective treatment for retinal detachment is using a scleral buckle. This procedure involves the attachment of a silicone rubber or sponge band to the eye’s exterior. Functioning as a support splint, it indents the eye internally, pressing the outer wall against the retinal hole and sealing and supporting the affected area. 

The buckle, discreetly positioned and typically not visible from the outside, often remains a permanent fixture to ensure ongoing support and alignment of the retina. This method aims to provide a lasting solution to retinal tears and detachment, prioritising long-term eye health and vision stability. 

Pneumatic retinopexy 

Pneumatic retinopexy is a less invasive retinal repair procedure involving injecting a small gas bubble directly into the eye without removing the vitreous gel. Following the injection, the surgeon applies laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy—or possibly both—to create a scar around the retinal tear, aiding in its closure. The gas bubble is temporary and naturally dissolves within approximately two weeks. During this time, patients may notice the bubble in their field of vision, typically at the bottom. 

At Clinica London, our commitment to providing personalised, expert care for retinal detachment is evident in our approach to each case. From diagnosis to treatment, our specialised team ensures that each patient receives the best care to preserve and restore vision. 

 


Recovery & Aftercare 


Although significant, retinal detachment surgery is usually not accompanied by significant pain. Patients may potentially encounter mild discomfort, which tends to be tolerable with over-the-counter pain medicine such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.   

Post-surgery, it is common to see redness in the white of the eye and to experience eyelid swelling and watering from the operated eye. This will gradually improve over time. Vision in the operated eye will initially be blurred and may take several weeks or months to improve, especially if a gas or liquid has been put in the eye at virectomy. The extent of vision recovery largely depends on the type of retinal detachment initially diagnosed.  

If vitrectomy has been performed and a gas or liquid put into the eye, the patient may be required to do special posturing for several hours a day at home for the first few days, to enable the gas or fluid to internally tamponade the retina and hole.  

Most patients are given eye drops and specific instructions to reduce discomfort and prevent infection. These drops are critical for healing and should be used as directed until the next appointment.  

Note that although bathing and showering are permitted, patients should avoid getting water in their eyes. Driving should also be avoided in the first few weeks after the procedure. The ability of an individual to resume normal activities is mainly determined by the type of surgery performed and the individual’s level of comfort.  

Most individuals require at least two weeks off work. This period may extend, especially if there is gas in the eye, which can impair vision and affect the ability to judge distance. The duration of leave from work should be discussed with your surgeon, taking into consideration the nature of your job and the type of surgery undertaken. 

 

Posturing 

Your surgeon will instruct you on specific posturing techniques to enhance the effectiveness of the gas or oil bubble used during your retinal surgery. Post-operative posturing is a crucial aspect of the recovery process, requiring you to position your head to allow the gas or oil bubble to support the retina’s healing optimally. The exact posture needed varies based on individual cases, and your surgeon will guide you to the most effective position for your particular situation. 

It is vital to adhere to these instructions, typically maintaining the position for at least 45 minutes every hour during the day. The brief intervals when you are not posturing should be used for gentle movement, helping to alleviate any discomfort or general body aches. Your commitment to these posturing guidelines is vital for a successful recovery and the long-term efficacy of the retinal treatment. 

Please keep in mind that it is a common misunderstanding that vision will improve quickly after retinal detachment surgery.  Vision restoration is a long process, and in certain cases where the macula is detached, full original vision may not be restored. 

In addition, despite popular belief, complete, long-term postoperative care is required. An ophthalmologist will follow the operated eye for years; repeat surgery may be required in some cases. 

Clinica London offers patients complete support and advice to help individuals navigate this phase successfully, offering the best possible recovery and visual restoration.

Risk & Side Effects 

While considering retinal detachment surgery, it’s important to understand the potential risks and side effects: 

  • Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of disease.
  • Bleeding: There may be bleeding inside the eye.
  • Increased Eye Pressure: Postoperative changes can lead to increased pressure inside the eye.
  • Cataract Formation: Surgery can lead to cataracts, particularly in older patients.
  • Further Detachment: In some cases, additional surgery might be needed if the retina redetaches.

Our Consultants 

At Clinica London, our esteemed team of vitreoretinal consultants, Ms. Evgenia Anikina and Mr. Julian Robins provide exceptional care for retinal conditions, including retinal detachment. 

Ms. Evgenia Anikina: A Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon focusing on cataracts, surgical vitreoretinal (VR), and medical retina conditions, Ms Anikina is highly experienced in the retinal field. Known for her holistic approach, Ms Anikina emphasises patient-centric care, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs. Her expertise extends across both medical and surgical retinal fields, allowing her to offer comprehensive care for complex eye problems. 

Mr. Julian Robins: An accomplished Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, Mr. Robins specialises in cataract, vitreoretinal (VR), and medical retina care. His areas of expertise include managing conditions of the retina and macula and addressing complications from lens surgery. His VR surgical skills cover a range of procedures, from treating floaters and retinal tears to addressing macula holes. 

Ms. Anikina and Mr. Robins bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to Clinica London, ensuring the highest standard of care for patients with retinal issues. Their combined expertise in medical and surgical aspects of retinal care offers patients comprehensive, personalised treatment options.

Mr Julian Robins 5

Mr Julian Robins

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
Cataract, Vitreoretinal (VR) and Medical Retina Specialist

Ms Stacey Strong 3

Ms Stacey Strong

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
Cataract & Medical Retina Specialist

Ms Laura Crawley

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
Cataract & Glaucoma Specialist

Mr Sajjad Ahmad

Mr Sajjad Ahmad

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
Cornea & External Eye Diseases, Cataract, Keratoconus & Refractive Surgery Specialist

Ms Naomi Tan

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
Paediatric Ophthalmology, Paediatric Strabismus, and Adult Cataract Specialist

Our clinic operates as a private surgery and is not affiliated with the NHS (National Health Service)

Pricing

How much does retinal detachment procedure cost?


TreatmentPrice range
Retinal Detachment Procedure (Inclusive of Surgeon, Anaesthetist, and Hospital Fees)from £650.00 to £700.00
Consultation FeesNot Included

Initial consultation fees are not included.

FAQS

The results of retinal detachment surgery vary and are influenced by the following: 

  • Extent and type of detachment
  • Presence of other eye conditions
  • Specific surgical methods used

Regular check-ups are crucial for monitoring and maintaining eye health post-surgery. For personalised advice, book a consultation! 

Regular eye exams are essential to prevent retinal detachment, especially if you have severe myopia, past eye surgeries, or a family history. Also, floaters or flashes of light should be reported to an ophthalmologist promptly. Additionally, wearing protective eyewear can also avoid detachment injuries. 

Most individuals need two weeks off. The duration of leave from work should be discussed with our surgeon, considering the nature of the patient’s job and the type of surgery undertaken. 

Award Winning Clinic in London

Clinica London is a leading ophthalmology and dermatology medical clinic. It has a sense of passion for helping patients. The clinic’s consultants are highly skilled professionals who have received British, European, and international awards in their respective fields. Clinica is honest and offers transparent treatment advice in a relaxed and comfortable environment.

BOOK A CONSULTATION

Book a Consultation