Laser treatment of the retina
retinal laser · laser photocoagulation · laser for retinal tear · panretinal photocoagulation
The doctor uses a laser to make tiny spot welds on the retina. This strengthens it or seals off unhealthy blood vessels.
For retinal tears and thinning, retina changes from diabetes, and some blood vessel conditions of the eye.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 30 minutes, about 1 to 1.5 hours with preparation
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Getting there. Your pupil will be widened, so you cannot drive afterward. Come with someone.
- Food. You can usually eat beforehand, unless the clinic says otherwise.
- Medicines. Do not stop your regular medicines on your own.
What to bring
- Sunglasses
- Your ID
- Someone to take you home
How it goes
- The eye is numbed and the pupil widened with drops
- You sit at the machine and rest your chin on a stand
- A special lens is placed on your eye
- The doctor aims the laser, and you see bright flashes
- Look where the doctor tells you and keep still
- The lens is removed, and the eye is rinsed
What you'll feel
- Bright flashes of light
- Sometimes tingling or an aching feeling
- Afterward, blurry vision for a few hours
Afterwards
- Do not drive until your vision is back to normal
- No heavy lifting or sudden bending for the first days, if your doctor says so
- Come for your follow-up on time
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Suddenly many new floaters, flashes, or a curtain over the eye: see an eye doctor urgently
- Severe eye pain, or headache with nausea: call emergency services
Common questions
Will the laser improve my vision?
Usually its goal is to protect your vision and stop it getting worse.
Will it need to be repeated?
Sometimes several sessions are needed. Your doctor will say.