Lattice Degeneration w/ leaking hole

Hi, I have just been told that i have Lattice Degeneration that has caused a hole in my retina and it is leaking. I have an appointment with an ophthalmologist in about 2 weeks, i don't have insurance and i wanted to know about how much a laser correction surgery would cost? Also, is it common to have headaches and for the eyes for be irritated and hurt when looking around?
Please let me know, i am very worried. Thank you

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

The lattice or hole will not cause headache, pain or irritation - so that is due to something else.  Regarding the laser retinopexy to seal the retinal hole:  if it is needed, it would cost somewhere between $600 and $1200 depending if you are given some type of discount.

Michael Kutryb, MD

[AnnaE]

My doctor gives 38% discount to those with no insurance. If yours does not, maybe you could look around, but be careful, of course. Are you sure you should wiat two weeks?

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

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[vivi9721]

Well since this is something so unexpected, i have to work and cant really afford be to out too much right now. The Doctor that im going to see is only available certain days and the only time i could go is next week. Im a very worried though! I will ask about the discount or see if i can find something somewhere else.
Thank you for your response.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Call the office and ask in advance what it would cost if you needed it.  Explain your financial situation/insurance situation.

MJK MD

[vivi9721]

I went to the doctor yesterday. It turns out my problems is a lot worse than i thought. I have 10 small holes on each eye. The one that is concerning the doctor is on my left eye.. i already have a small retinal detachment. I have to choose between getting the Laser Pexy or Scleral Buckle. I am not sure what to do. He told me the laser will only most likely temporarily fix the problem but that it is likely that the detachment will get larger with time. The Scleral Buckle works better but its an actual surgery and they go into the eye. Can you please advise??? I need more detail on how the scleral buckle works? How effective is it? If anyone has a personal experience could you please give me some feedback? Another concern i have is how much experience should my doctor have and if i should talk to another doctor.
Thank you so much for your help!

[AnnaE]

I am very sorry you are facing this. Twenty years ago, both my daughter's retinas detached at onece. We had no insurance. A retina specialist helped us. I believe that you can get expert help, also. Your youth should help you. Ask the doctor about that.

My daughter is fine now. The first surgeries on each eye were the only ones necessary.

Best of luck.