Lattice degeneration

[catauyeung]

I was told by a retinal specialist that I have lattice degeneration and that I should have laser treatment to prevent retinal detachment.  I am 62, with a relatively high degree of myopia and also my father had retinal detachment.  I've read about this on the internet and one source said laser scars may increase the risk of retinal detachemnt.  I am now am not sure if I should undergo the treatment.  Should I go for the laser or not?  Some advice would be appreciated.  Thanks.

[catauyeung]

Thank you all for your responses.  Dr. Oyakawa's response is the best and very helpful as it is very specific and told me to check and see if I have a horseshoe tear.  But rward's description of his experience and advise to get a second opinion is also helpful.

[catauyeung]

Thank you.  I have been googling and I did find out that I only have one hole and it is not a horseshoe tear.  Even the doctor himself says that it is not absolutely necessary to have the operation.  Just have to weigh the risks against the benefits, which is of course hard.  In his opinion, there is very little risk and it's unlikely that the laser scars will cause a retinal detachment later.  But from what I've read on the web, I got the sense that any time there is interference with your eyes (or any part of your body for that matter), there are always some adverse effects.  I don't have any symptoms now,not even flashing lights, so I 'll go get a second opinion.  Chances are, I won't do anything.  

[catauyeung]

Thank you.  I am going to get a second opinion.

[rward80]

Lattice degeneration is fairly common.  Nothing to be concerned about until vitreous detachment, then tears may result.  Iam 33, moderately myopic, and I have lattice degeneration. I have been having a vitreous detachment with retinal tears and laser repairs.  I don't want to take the place of a professional opinion, but I would definitely get a second opinion as to if it was worth the time and money to repair the lattice now.  Listen to the doctor's advice on here.

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

Yes, but Goggle indications for treatment of retinal tears or lattice.

Dr. O

[catauyeung]

Thanks, Dr. O.  So I should ask my retina specialist if I have horseshoe tears, right?  And if I don't, I shouldn't need surgery.

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

Lattice alone is not an indication for laser treatment.  You should have laser if you have an acute symptomatic horseshoe tears.  Goggle indications for treatment of retinal tears or lattice.

Dr. O.