Scarring after Retinal Surgery

[ABQ1207]

I've had two vitrectomies; first gas and then oil.  In both cases, I had scaring.  The last surgery was done 6 weeks ago, and now scaring has begun.  It is slowly lifting the retina again (I have holes in the bottom that causes seepage of the fluid.)  The doctor is suggesting that I may need a 3rd surgery, but tells me that there is nothing that I can do to prevent the scarring.  Is there anything that I can do to prevent the scarring?  If  it scars again, then what are the options.   Isn't there a better way of attaching the retina?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Actcually some scarring is good as scars are what seal the retina to the back of the eye. These scars are carefly created with lasers or freezing (cryoprobe). The bad scarring is in front of the retina and why it forms in some people and not others is not completely understood but it is one of the most common reasons for repeated RDs.

There are any numbers of lists of top eye programs in the USA. Bascom Palmer of U of Miami is on everyone's list.

RD is not related to how you take care of yourself unless you subject yourself to trauma to the eye or are a diabetic and do not keep it under the control.

JCH MD

[ABQ1207]

Thank you for responding to my question.  I am getting a second opinion next week from a local doctor.  Are there no other options than multiple vitrectomies?  

Do you know of any facility in the US  such as Bascom Palmer that excels in this area?  From the research I have done, I'm thinking that scrring is related to proteins.  Are there any medication to reduce the condition that causes the scarring?  My eye sight is actually is about 50% restored  after the surgery 6 weeks ago.  

I am (was) an extremely healthy person working out daily, and walking about 3-4 miles daily, and eating the right foods.  Thank you.