Retina

Retina

The retina is a translucent tissue that covers the inside of the eye and forms part of our nervous system.

It is thanks to the retina that we capture light and images of our surroundings. Our brain receives and interprets the information that our eye sends it in the form of nerve impulses captured by the photoreceptors (specialised neurons located in the retina) and which are sent to the brain via the optic nerve.

Conceptually, the layers that compose the retina can be grouped into two blocks:

The neuroretina, which agglutinates several types of cells and is the actual nervous tissue, responsible for receiving and transforming visual stimuli so that they can be interpreted. The photoreceptors capture the light and convert it into electrical impulses, then the bipolar cells process this signal and transmit it to the ganglion cells, which send the information via the optic nerve to the occipital cortex of the brain, where the visual information is interpreted. The deepest layer is the internal limiting membrane.

The pigment epithelium, which is the outermost layer and plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of the photoreceptors. It also contains pigment that helps improve the optical function of the eye by reducing excessive reflections, acting as a kind of “black box”.

Importance of early detection

Due to its nervous tissue nature, it is currently not possible to regenerate the retina when certain retinal neurons have died, resulting in irreversible vision loss. However, if definitive cell death has not occurred, there are indeed treatments available for the recovery of a certain degree of vision. For this reason, early diagnosis is vital and the aim of the treatments will be to preserve the undamaged retina and maintain vision.

Visiting a retinologist

In order to produce the best possible results for any retinal pathology, it is essential to have a retina specialist, who is an ophthalmologist specialising in the retina. The HC retina specialist, due to his extensive experience and continuous training in this field, will be able to deal with the most complex cases in the best possible way. This is accomplished by using the most advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology.

Instructions for Patients After Retinal Surgery at HC Marbella

Do I need to wear an eye patch?

You should keep the eye patch on the first night after surgery. It is not necessary to wear the patch after the doctor removes it the day after surgery. However, we recommend wearing sunglasses or prescription glasses during the day and a plastic eye shield without gauze or patches protecting the operated eye at night when sleeping during the first week after surgery.

Will I have pain after surgery?

It is normal to feel some discomfort after surgery. For the first few days, you may need to take the usual analgesic medication. If these drugs do not relieve the pain, call the hospital.

Is tearing normal after surgery?

Moderate tearing is expected during the first week. This should gradually diminish. The eyelids can be gently wiped with a clean cloth, tissue or a cotton pad, wiping from the nose outwards.

Will there be swelling and will my eye be red?

Slight swelling is normal for about a week, especially if you have undergone a cerclage, but it should gradually subside. The swelling may get worse or last longer if you do not keep your head down as instructed by your doctor after surgery. After the surgical procedure, the eye will be red and you should see a gradual decrease in redness over the first 3-4 weeks.

Will I need to use eye drops?

You will be prescribed several types of eye drops or ointment when you leave the hospital. The instructions will be in your surgical discharge report. The drop with the red cap will keep your eye dilated and may make it more sensitive to light, it is normal for it to be the one that stings the most. Wearing sunglasses may help reduce discomfort. Another drop consists of an antibiotic combined with a steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, to prevent infection and promote healing; and a third drop may be needed to control the pressure in your eye. You will use eye drops or ointments for four to eight weeks. Bring all eye medications (drops, ointments or pills) to each visit to the doctor.

How long will it take for my vision to improve?

The first day after surgery, the vision is often worse due to eye medication or inflammation from the surgery. In some cases, you may have double vision which will usually resolve in the first few days. Your vision should gradually improve, but it could take up to six months for your vision to reach its best.

Are there physical restrictions on my activities after surgery?

If the surgery required a silicone oil refill or gas bubble to be left in your eye, you will be asked to spend most of your time (both awake and at night) with your head in a specific position, often face down. As the eye heals and, in the case of gas, the bubble dissipates, there will gradually be less need to maintain that specific position. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions in this regard. You should avoid sleeping on your back until the bubble has completely dissolved or the oil is surgically removed.

When can I resume normal activities and return to work?

You can return to work in about 1 month. If your job involves physical activity or driving, you may need to restrict your activities and stay home longer.

Are there any driving restrictions?

You cannot drive on the day of surgery so you will need to be driven to the hospital. If you have good vision in the other eye, you can usually resume driving in a few days. In cases where an intraocular gas bubble has been required, it may be necessary to wait until it disappears.

Can I travel?

• You cannot fly or travel at a significant elevation above sea level if you have an air or gas bubble in your eye.

When can I shower and wash my hair?

You can shower or bathe when you get home, but be especially careful to avoid getting water or irritants such as shampoo or soap in your eye during the first 2 weeks following surgery.

When will I see the doctor again?

Generally, you will be seen at least one day, one week, one month and three months after surgery. Depending on your condition, more frequent visits may be necessary.

What if I need another surgical procedure for any other condition after my eye surgery?

• If you require any other surgical procedures under general anaesthesia within six weeks after your eye surgery, please have your surgeon or anaesthetist contact us beforehand if a gas bubble was injected into your eye.