Scleral buckling is a crucial surgical procedure for addressing retinal detachment, providing a reliable method to restore your vision. Our experienced eye doctors are dedicated to your ocular health.
Scleral buckling is a surgical procedure designed to repair a retinal detachment by gently repositioning the eye’s wall with a small, flexible band. This treatment is important because a detached retina, if left untreated, can lead to significant vision loss or permanent blindness. Our eye doctors use this time-tested method to restore the integrity of your retina and help preserve your vision.
Scleral buckling involves placing a small silicone band or sponge on the outer wall of the eye, called the sclera, with the goal of pushing the wall inward to relieve the pull on a detached retina. The procedure is specifically used to treat retinal detachment that is usually caused by a tear or a hole in the retina, which allows fluid to seep underneath and separate the retina from the supportive tissue. By pressing the eye wall inward, the retina can settle back into its proper position, and our eye doctors often use cryotherapy (freezing treatment) or laser therapy at the site to create a scar that firmly adheres the retina to the underlying tissue.
The retina is a thin layer of nerve tissue that captures light and sends visual messages to the brain, much like the film in a camera. When a tear or hole forms in the retina, it can allow fluid from the inside of the eye to seep underneath, causing the retina to detach. This separation might be due to natural aging processes, extreme nearsightedness, eye injuries, or even complications from previous eye surgeries. For many patients, early symptoms include a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow that seems to move across their field of vision. Recognizing these early signs and seeking prompt attention is essential, as retinal detachment is considered a medical emergency.
Take action today to protect your vision; schedule a consultation with a top optometrist or ophthalmologist near you!
Imagine your retina as a flexible film that lines the back of the eye. When this film peels off, like a loose sticker, it needs reinforcement to settle back in place. Scleral buckling acts as that gentle but firm support by applying a silicone band around the sclera, the white outer layer of your eye. This band is carefully positioned and sutured by our eye doctors to ensure it exerts the right amount of pressure to push the retinal tear against the underlying tissue.
This method is highly effective because the buckle remains permanently on the eye; however, it is designed in such a way that most patients do not notice it once recovery is complete.
Proper preparation and understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety about the procedure. Here’s how our eye doctors typically guide you through the process:
Before any surgical procedure, there is a series of evaluations to ensure you are a good candidate and to map out a precise treatment plan. Your retina specialist will conduct a comprehensive eye examination that may include dilating your pupils and using imaging tests like ultrasound if the view of your retina is not clear. This preoperative evaluation helps the surgeon understand the extent of the detachment and plan the best approach for placing the scleral buckle.
The scleral buckling procedure itself is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you will typically be able to return home the same day. During the surgery, your eye is kept open with a small speculum, and you are given sedation to ensure comfort. Once the surgeon makes a small incision in the outer layer of the eye, the carefully chosen silicone band is meticulously placed around the sclera.
The entire procedure usually takes about one to two hours, during which every minute is measured carefully to ensure optimal outcomes and safety.
Recovery from scleral buckling involves careful adherence to postoperative care instructions and regular follow-up visits with your eye doctor. Soon after the procedure, you might experience mild discomfort, swelling, and blurred vision. These are normal signs of healing and usually improve with time.
Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor your healing progress and to ensure that the retina remains securely attached. While most patients see gradual visual improvement over several weeks, complete recovery can take from two to four weeks or longer, depending on individual healing variations.
Take action today to protect your vision; schedule a consultation with a top optometrist or ophthalmologist near you!
Scleral buckling is a vital surgery for retinal detachment that restores vision and prevents severe complications. Call to learn more!
