Laser Photocoagulation & Vitrectomy

About Laser Photocoagulation & Vitrectomy

These treatments address conditions affecting the retina and vitreous, such as retinal detachment and vitreous hemorrhage. Retinal disease often has few symptoms in its early stages, so how quickly it's found — and how promptly it's treated — can significantly affect long-term vision. We recommend treatment suited to each case; some cases can be treated same-day, while others may be referred to a partner institution depending on the condition.

Symptoms

• Sudden vision loss
• Part of the visual field looks like it's covered by a curtain
• A sudden increase in floaters
• Photopsia (flashes of light)
• Distorted central vision
• Dark spots or shadows in vision

Why prompt care matters: Retinal problems (such as tears or bleeding) are painless. This makes them easy to miss or dismiss. Those with diabetes or high myopia should have a fundus exam every 6 months to a year even without symptoms, to support early detection. If you notice any of the signs above, see an ophthalmologist right away.

Treatment

Treatment is selected (or combined) based on the stage and condition of the disease.

• Laser photocoagulationUsed for retinal tears, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion and similar conditions. Laser seals weak areas of the retina or abnormal blood vessels, preventing or suppressing retinal detachment or bleeding. No incision is needed, so it's done same-day, usually taking 10–20 minutes.
• VitrectomySurgery that removes the vitreous (the gel-like substance inside the eye) to treat retinal disease, used for retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, epiretinal membrane and macular hole, among others. Performed under local anesthesia using a microscope for precision, this removes clouded vitreous, releases traction on the retina, and repositions and secures a detached retina. Treatment details vary by condition; depending on the case, it may be done as a same-day procedure or require a short hospital stay, and we may refer you to a partner medical institution when needed.

About surgical risk: Both laser photocoagulation and vitrectomy are effective treatments for retinal disease, but as with any surgery, risk is never zero. Infection, bleeding, elevated eye pressure, cataract progression, and rarely retinal detachment recurrence or vision loss can occur. Monitoring as directed after treatment is important, and any concerns should be raised promptly. Suitability and specific risks are explained in detail by your doctor after examination.

Ongoing Care

• Both treatments use eye-dilating drops, so vision will be blurry and light-sensitive for several hours afterward. Please avoid driving on the day.
• Especially after vitrectomy, if gas or air was injected into the eye, you may need to maintain a specific position (such as face-down) for a period of time. This is important for securely holding the retina in place.
• Even if things look fine right after treatment, new issues can develop elsewhere over time. Be sure to keep all follow-up appointments as directed.

A Note From the Director

Related Pages

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration
• Retinal Vascular Disease
• Diabetic Retinopathy

Please note: The effects of the treatments described on this page vary between individuals, and no particular outcome is guaranteed. The severity and course of your condition will be explained by your doctor after examination.